When it comes to doing laundry, most of us rely on routines we learned growing up. Maybe you separate everything into dozens of little piles, swear by hot water for every load, or add a little extra detergent “just to be safe.” But not everything we were taught about laundry is accurate. Over time, myths and misconceptions have worked their way into the wash cycle, leaving many people wasting time, money, and energy on practices that don’t actually make clothes any cleaner. At The Laundry Lounge, we believe laundry should be simple, efficient, and effective. That’s why we’re setting the record straight and breaking down the most common laundry myths to show you what really works and what doesn’t.
Myth 1: More Detergent Means Cleaner Clothes
It might seem logical that if a little detergent gets clothes clean, a lot of detergent will get them even cleaner. In reality, the opposite is true. Using too much detergent can create excess suds that trap dirt and bacteria in fabric fibers instead of rinsing them away. Over time, this can leave clothes feeling stiff, looking dull, and even smelling less than fresh. Excess detergent is also hard on washing machines, creating buildup that leads to maintenance issues.
The truth is that modern washers, especially the commercial-grade machines at The Laundry Lounge, are designed to work efficiently with the right amount of detergent. Using less is often better, particularly with high-efficiency formulas. Following the recommended measurements ensures clothes come out cleaner, brighter, and softer.
Myth 2: Hot Water is Always Best
For generations, people believed that hot water was the ultimate solution for killing germs and getting laundry fresh. While hot water can be useful for sanitizing certain items like towels or bedding, it isn’t necessary for everyday laundry. In fact, consistently using hot water can cause colors to fade faster and fabrics to wear out sooner.
Cold water is just as effective for most laundry loads, especially when combined with modern detergents that are formulated to clean well in lower temperatures. Cold washes save energy, preserve fabric quality, and are gentler on the environment. Warm water has its place for items that need a little more stain-fighting power, but there’s no need to rely on hot water every time you do a load.
Myth 3: Washing Machines Kill All Germs
A common misconception is that simply running clothes through the washer will kill bacteria and germs. In truth, most washing machines are not designed to sanitize clothing on their own. Standard cycles clean dirt and grime, but they do not necessarily eliminate microbes. For items that require extra sanitization, such as baby clothes or workout gear, using hot water when appropriate or adding a laundry sanitizer can be helpful.
At The Laundry Lounge, our professional-grade machines are built to deliver a deeper clean than home washers, but understanding the limits of what a washer can do is key to keeping laundry truly fresh.
Myth 4: Fabric Softener is Necessary for Soft Clothes
Many people use fabric softener every time they do laundry, assuming it’s the only way to keep clothes soft and fresh. While fabric softener can add a pleasant scent and reduce static, it isn’t always the best choice for fabrics. Over time, softener leaves a coating on fibers that reduces absorbency, which is why towels may stop drying as effectively after repeated use.
The reality is that high-quality washing machines, like those at The Laundry Lounge, are designed to rinse thoroughly and prevent fabric stiffness naturally. For those who still want softness without buildup, dryer balls or a simple vinegar rinse are effective alternatives.
Myth 5: Dry Cleaning is Just a Fancy Wash
Some people assume that dry cleaning is just another term for a special type of laundry cycle, but the two processes are completely different. Dry cleaning uses chemical solvents instead of water to remove stains and dirt from delicate fabrics that cannot handle the agitation or moisture of a washing machine. Tossing a “dry clean only” garment in with your laundry load can cause permanent damage, shrinkage, or distortion.
When it comes to special-care clothing, it’s always best to follow the care label instructions rather than risking a wash at home or at the laundromat.
Myth 6: Bleach is the Best Way to Whiten Clothes
Bleach has long been the go-to for brightening whites, but it isn’t always the safest or most effective option. Chlorine bleach can weaken fabrics over time, causing yellowing or holes to develop. It can also damage colored fabrics if not used carefully.
A better alternative for keeping whites fresh is using oxygen-based cleaners, which brighten without breaking down fibers. Pairing these products with a proper wash cycle is often more effective than relying on bleach alone. At The Laundry Lounge, our machines offer customizable cycles that let you achieve brighter whites without the harsh side effects of bleach.
Myth 7: Hand Washing is Always Gentler
Some people believe hand washing is always the best choice for delicate items. While this can be true in certain cases, modern commercial washers often have delicate or gentle cycles that are far more effective and consistent than hand washing. Hand washing may not remove all dirt, and it can sometimes cause stretching or uneven cleaning.
When in doubt, using a professional-grade machine on a gentle cycle provides a safe and thorough clean without the wear and tear of scrubbing by hand.
Myth 8: Clothes Shrink Because of Washing
It’s a common belief that washing is what causes clothes to shrink, but the real culprit is usually the drying process. High heat in dryers can cause fibers, especially natural ones like cotton and wool, to contract. Washing in cold water and using lower-heat drying cycles or air drying can help preserve the original fit and length of clothing.
At The Laundry Lounge, our dryers feature customizable settings that give you control over how much heat your clothes are exposed to, helping extend the life of your wardrobe.
Bringing It All Together
Laundry doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require separating fact from fiction. Many of the “rules” people follow are based on outdated practices or misconceptions that don’t apply with today’s detergents and commercial-grade machines. By understanding what really works, you can save time, protect your clothes, and get the best possible results every time you do laundry.
At The Laundry Lounge, we make laundry simple, efficient, and stress-free. With 24/7 access, powerful washers and dryers, and a clean, comfortable space, you can trust that every load gets the best treatment possible. Forget the myths and experience laundry the way it’s meant to be—easy, effective, and reliable.
