If you have a double-basin sink, you can use 1 side for the soapy water and the other side for the rinse water. [1] X Research source
To wash 1 shirt, use about 1 to 2 US gal (3. 8 to 7. 6 L) of water. Make sure the water temperature feels comfortable against your hands. If it’s too cold or too hot, you won’t be able to wash your shirt effectively.
Add a bleach alternative product along with the detergent to help brighten white shirts. [4] X Research source To eliminate perspiration odors from wool sweaters, add 3⁄4 c (180 mL) of distilled white vinegar to the detergent. [5] X Research source
Different types of stains may require different stain-removal tactics. Do a little research first to make sure you’re using the most effective methods to remove the stain, whether it’s a result of a leaky pen, mud, self-tanner, makeup, or something else.
Refrain from scrubbing vigorously or wringing out the garment as you might damage the fabric. [7] X Research source
To treat stains at this stage, try gently scrubbing stains with a stain-removing laundry bar before leaving it to soak. Then allow the shirt to soak for at least 30 minutes. [9] X Research source
If you notice the new water gets discolored as well, it means the shirt hasn’t been completely rinsed out yet. You’ll need to do an additional rinse.
If you’d like, complete 1 or 2 more rinses in the basin, using fresh water each time.
To make sure the soap is entirely gone, squeeze the fabric for signs of slick soap or lathering.
Avoid vigorously wringing out your shirt as you’ll wrinkle it and may pull it out of shape.
Get your shirt to a place where it’s still damp, but dry enough that it stops dripping. Repeat the drying process with another clean, dry towel if necessary.
Avoid using a wire hanger as the metal may rust and crease your clothes. [15] X Research source Feel free to clip your clothing up to an outdoor clothesline. [16] X Research source Just make sure you turn brightly-colored shirts inside-out so that they don’t get sun bleached. If you need your shirt to dry more quickly, direct a fan towards it. Try ironing cotton dress shirts while they’re still slightly damp to achieve a crisp finish. [17] X Research source
This technique works well for knit sweaters, jersey tops, t-shirts, and sweatshirts. Avoid hanging up these up to dry as they’re likely to stretch out. You may also lay out woven shirts on a towel or drying rack. Use a flat-lying rack instead of draping your shirt over the bars to avoid creasing the fabric. [18] X Research source Don’t lay out a damp shirt to dry on a nice wood tabletop as the wood might warp due to the moisture.
