I recently made one small change to my laundry routine, and when I say the difference is remarkable – I promise I’m not exaggerating. If like me, you are struggling with sweat marks, deodorant stains and the dreaded bobbling of your favourite jumpers – this, too, could be the swap for you. Oh, and did I mention it only takes two seconds to do?
A lot of new-fangled laundry so-called ‘hacks’ require you to do strange and elaborate things. Adding absurd ingredients to the drum, fiddling with the settings and more. All of which require maximum effort, but achieve minimal results. This trick is quite the opposite. This is why turning your clothes inside out will protect your favourite clothing this winter and finally clean everything properly.
Why you should be turning your clothes inside out before washing
Turning your clothes inside out before washing might feel like an extra faff, but it takes two seconds to do and puts the bits that need the most attention right where the wash can reach them. Sweat, body oils, deodorant and dead skin build up on the inside of clothes, particularly around the underarms, waistband and collar, so giving that side the full wash helps tackle the grime and lingering smells.
It’s also a simple way to give jumpers and knitwear a little protection, too. As winter sets in, it’s more important than ever to be protecting our favourite knitted pieces, and we all know how annoying it is when they begin to bobble. Bobbles form when fibres rub together, which is why they often appear most on our sleeves. And a washing machine adds even more friction; turning a jumper inside out means its visible outer surface takes less of that rubbing. It won’t stop bobbling altogether, but it’s a great and easy way to prevent it from happening, helping to keep your favourite knit looking fresher for longer. Be sure to check the care label first, especially for wool.
Which clothes should be turned inside out and why
Honestly, all of your clothes should be turned inside out to clean them the best (unless you’re trying to tackle a particular stain on the exterior), but certain pieces will definitely benefit more than others.
Black and dark-coloured clothing: Turning your deepest colours inside out safeguards the fabric’s surface from friction that contributes to a faded appearance.
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Jeans and denim: This trick shields the denim’s visible side from some of the rubbing that happens in the washing machine. That friction can wear at the fibres and fade the dye, especially on dark or black denim, so flipping them first helps them keep their colour for longer. It’s a tiny laundry habit that can spare your favourite pair from looking prematurely lived-in.
Gym clothes and sportswear: These are the pieces that tend to collect the most sweat and body oils, especially around the underarms, waistband and back. Turning them inside out puts that well-worn side facing the wash, helping detergent get to the build-up that can leave clothes smelling less than fresh.
Clothes prone to pilling: Bobbles often appear where fabric rubs against itself, so a wash can add to the friction. Turning a jumper or other bobble-prone item inside out helps protect its visible side from some of that wear. It won’t prevent pilling altogether, as the fabric and how it’s made play a part, too, but it’s a useful little precaution before the pilling builds too much. For more tips on prevention and removal of bobbles, you can check out our article.
Delicate or embellished clothing: Sequins, beads, prints and other decorative details can take a battering when they rub against the drum or other clothes. Turning the item inside out can help shield the finish, but check the care label first. For anything especially delicate, a mesh laundry bag or gentler washing method may be the safer bet.
