April 11, 2025
Doing laundry isn’t just about tossing clothes in the washer and hoping for the best. With the right tools in your laundry arsenal, you can extend the life of your clothes, beat tough stains, and streamline your routine. Whether you're a busy parent, a renter without machines, or a short-term rental host with nonstop laundry, here are the must-have laundry products every person should keep in their laundry repertoire—and why they matter. π§΄ 1. Laundry Detergent Why you need it: It’s the foundation of every load. Choose a high-quality detergent that matches your needs—regular, hypoallergenic, or high-efficiency (HE). Pro tip: Use less than you think. Overusing detergent can lead to residue buildup on clothes and in your washer. π§Ό 2. Fabric Softener (Liquid or Free & Clear) Why you need it: It reduces static, softens fabric, and adds fragrance. It’s great for towels, sheets, and anything that touches your skin. When to skip: Avoid on athletic gear, baby clothes, towels (if you want to maintain absorbency), or microfiber. π«§ 3. Oxygen-Based Bleach (Oxy Powder) Why you need it: A gentler, color-safe bleach alternative that brightens whites, lifts stains, and deodorizes without damaging fabric. Use it for: Whites, colorfast items, baby clothes, and dingy towels. π§ͺ 4. Chlorine Bleach (Use with Caution) Why you need it: A go-to for disinfecting and whitening, especially on socks, undergarments, and heavily soiled linens. Caution: Always read fabric labels. Never mix with vinegar or ammonia. π§ 5. Distilled White Vinegar Why you need it: A natural, budget-friendly laundry booster. It: Softens fabric Removes odors Neutralizes detergent buildup Helps brighten colors Add ½ cup to the rinse cycle for a natural softening and deodorizing boost. π§΄ 6. Stain Remover Spray or Stick Why you need it: Life happens—coffee spills, ketchup splatters, muddy knees. A reliable stain remover is your best friend for saving clothes from permanent marks. Apply before washing and let sit for a few minutes for best results. π§» 7. Dryer Sheets Why you need them: These reduce static cling, freshen fabric, and help smooth wrinkles during the drying cycle. When to skip: Avoid with towels, workout gear, and flame-resistant fabrics (like some kids’ pajamas), as the coating can reduce performance. β½ 8. Wool Dryer Balls Why you need them: These reusable balls are a natural, chemical-free way to: Soften clothes Reduce static Cut drying time Prevent tangling of large items like bedding, comforters, and blankets By helping air circulate more efficiently, they’re especially great for bulky loads that tend to ball up and trap moisture. Bonus: Add a few drops of essential oil to give your laundry a light, natural scent. π§Ί 9. Delicates Wash Bag (Mesh Laundry Bag) Why you need it: This small-but-mighty tool protects delicate fabrics in the wash. It keeps lace, bras, tights, and small socks from stretching, tangling, or getting damaged. It’s also great for face masks, baby socks, and other easily lost items. π§Ό 10. Scrub Brush or Old Toothbrush Why you need it: Perfect for gently scrubbing stains like oil, mud, or grass. A toothbrush gives you just enough pressure and precision without damaging fabrics. π Wrap-Up: Stock Your Laundry Toolkit Like a Pro Laundry is smoother, faster, and more effective when you’re equipped with the right tools. Whether you're doing it all yourself or trusting us with your wash & fold order, these essentials help you keep your clothes fresh, clean, and lasting longer. π Visit Splash Laundry’s newly renovated facility or schedule your wash & fold pickup today—we’ve already got the toolkit covered, so you don’t have to.