Tips For A Perfect Wash

Always read the labels: Don't forget to check tags for specific washing suggestions. Items simply labeled "Dry Clean" (as opposed to "Dry Clean Only") can most likely be hand washed using Roux Maison Delicate Detergent. Before attempting, test on a hidden spot, such as a seam, to see how the fabric responds. Using a cotton swab, dab with a small amount of Roux Maison Delicate Detergent and then rinse to make sure fabric does not react poorly to contact with detergent and water. Here at Roux Maison, we have saved lots of money by hand or machine washing just about all of our knitwear items that specify "dry clean" using our Delicate Detergent on the gentle or hand wash cycle, and following the instructions we've compiled here. Of course, we always recommend that you use your best judgment and make this determination on a case by case basis with your garments, especially if your garment is labeled "dry clean only".

Sort: Whites/light colors, darks, and brights should all be washed separately. Extra-soiled garments or items that produce a lot of lint (i.e. terrycloth towels, flannel shirts) should also be washed in a separate load. Heavy and more abrasive items like jeans should be washed separately from lighter weight items, like lingerie and other sheer clothing.

Pretreat stains: Please refer to our Roux Maison Stain Removal Guide as well as below for additional information and tips for specific stains.

Select the correct detergent: All Roux Maison laundry detergents provide maximum cleaning power and have minimal environmental impact. Our detergents are specially formulated to protect your clothing and household linens and keep them in the most pristine condition possible, while doing the same for you, your family, and the environment. You have all different kinds of clothes and linens made from a myriad of materials, so it only makes sense that you should also have different detergents specific to your varied home laundering needs. (Click here to learn more about our selection of specialty detergents and which one is right for your particular home laundering needs). We do everything we can to preserve the longevity of your clothes, so you can create tomorrow's heirlooms by taking the best care of what you have today.

Select the appropriate water temperature: All Roux Maison detergents provide optimal performance regardless of water temperature, and we always recommend that you wash with colder water whenever possible because it consumes less energy. Cool or warm water is also appropriate for most washing needs, depending upon the color and fabric of your laundry. Cold water is best for bright or dark colors. It will both help prevent fading and help these items retain their color longer. Cold water is also best for delicates. However, when necessary, use hot water to keep whites clean. Clothes may shrink if washed in water that is hot. Warm water will work for most average loads and most whites/lights. For hand washing in most instances, if your item is not stained or heavily soiled, it should only need to soak for two to five minutes before gently squeezing suds through then rinsing.

Always air dry: Do this whenever possible, it saves both energy as well as unnecessary wear and tear on your garments. Gently roll items in a towel to remove excess moisture and lay flat to dry on a mesh rack or a clean, dry towel.

Wash new clothing before wearing: Be sure to do this especially if you have skin allergies. Washing with the appropriate Roux Maison detergent will remove chemical residue on new clothes that frequently causes contact dermatitis and irritation. Always pre-clean all undergarments and bathing suits before wearing them. Rinse these items in hot water and hang to dry, in order to kill unwanted germs that may linger from others who tried on the garments.

If you forget to transfer laundry from the washer to the dryer, it may sour. To remove the odor, rewash as soon as possible, adding a cup of white vinegar to the load. If left for a long time (overnight), check for mildew spots, which can rot fabric. To remove, soak the items in warm to hot water with a full dose of Roux Maison Essential detergent, then launder as usual.

LAUNDERING SCHEDULE

Weekly: Bathmats, towels, washcloths, sheets, pillowcases, machine washable throw rugs and runners