How to Wash Clothes by Hand

Washing clothes by hand is a little extra work, but it’s a well-worth-it laundry chore. Here’s how to properly wash clothes by hand, which will give extra life to those special items in your clothes closet.

When laundry day comes around, most washing machines offer a delicate or hand-wash setting, but there are times when the best results will come from hand-washing certain types of clothing. If you’re not sure how to hand-wash clothes, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn the different techniques to washing clothes by hand and what to look out for when working with differen
t fabrics.

Always check the care label for directions. If the label says “dry-clean only,” avoid washing it at home. If the label says “dry-clean,” you may want to try hand-washing clothes. Before you hand-wash the garment, check a small inconspicuous area first to make sure the fabric is colorfast.

Unique fabrics may require special care. Items such as delicate lingerie, wool sweaters, and silk blouses may retain their color and shape best when washed by hand. Baby clothes may also have special handwashing requirements as well. Silk garments should not be hand-washed if they are brightly colored, patterned, or darkly colored, as the dyes may bleed.

Get our step-by-step directions for the best way to hand-wash clothes below, as well as advice on how to dry items to extend their life and keep them looking as good as the day you bought them.

Washing clothes by hand can keep them looking good for years to come, protect delicate fabrics and cut costs associated with dry cleaning.

HOW TO HANDWASH FABRICS

Step 1: Read the Label

Read the garment label for specific product recommendations regarding hand-washing clothes. Then use an Egoli Soap Bar for hand-washing clothes, also if no care label exists.

Step 2: Fill Tub with Water

Fill a small tub or sink with water at the temperature recommended on the care label. If no care label exists, choose cool to lukewarm water. Use as much soap as the washing load demands – you can’t overdo it, unless you need to save money.

Step 3: Submerge and Soak

Submerge the garment in the soapy water and soak. Use gentle movements to swish the item through the sudsy water. Avoid scrubbing or twisting actions that can stretch or damage the fabric. Gently swish the garment through the sudsy water until the item is clean. You can find hand-washing clothes tools, but unless you’re hand-washing regularly, it’s not necessary.

Step 4: Rinse and Repeat

Drain the sink or tub, and refill it with cool rinse water. Push the garment up and down in the water until all soap is removed. If you’re unsure, sniff the garment to make sure it is no longer scented. Repeat the process with clean water if necessary.