[English 101] LAUNDRY DAY - Words for washing clothes and detergents

Teaching Material

1. I toss my shirts into the laundry hamper at the end of the day.
• Laundry hamper (noun) - A container used to store dirty clothes before washing
• Use ‘laundry hamper’ to keep dirty clothes in one place. It reduces clutter and makes transport to the washing machine simpler. Choose one with airflow to prevent odors.
• “Where’s the laundry hamper? My clothes are piling up on the floor.”
• clothes hamper - Same function, emphasizes storing soiled clothes before cleaning.
2. After the gym, I throw my dirty clothes in the hamper.
• Dirty clothes (noun phrase) - Garments that have been worn and need to be washed
• Use ‘dirty clothes’ when referring to items that require laundering. Great for labeling or organizing them before washing.
• “Could you bring down your dirty clothes? I’m starting a load.”
3. Sorting laundry prevents white shirts from turning pink.
• Sorting laundry (noun (gerund)) - Separating clothes by color, fabric type, or wash instructions before cleaning
• Use ‘sorting laundry’ to emphasize grouping items. Typically, group whites, darks, and colors to avoid color runs and wash each load properly.
• “I’ll help with sorting laundry if you empty the dryer.”
4. I used the delicate cycle for my lace blouse.
• Delicate cycle (noun phrase) - A gentle wash setting intended for fragile fabrics like silk or lace
• Use ‘delicate cycle’ to protect sensitive clothing. It offers less agitation and a shorter wash time, reducing damage.
• “Is this shirt delicate cycle only, or can I do a normal wash?”
5. During the spin cycle, the washer vibrates a lot.
• Spin cycle (noun phrase) - Part of the wash cycle where the machine rapidly spins to remove excess water
• Use ‘spin cycle’ when describing how water is extracted. If it’s too noisy, pause to redistribute clothing for balance.
• “The spin cycle is so loud—maybe the load is unbalanced.”
6. Don’t forget to add detergent before starting the machine.
• Detergent (noun) - A cleaning substance specifically formulated for washing clothes
• Use ‘detergent’ to refer to soaps made for laundry. Consider the type (liquid, powder, or pods) based on machine and fabric.
• “Which detergent brand do you prefer for stains?”
7. She prefers powder detergent for heavily soiled garments.
• Powder detergent (noun phrase) - A granular form of soap for laundering clothes
• Use ‘powder detergent’ for sturdy fabrics. It can be more cost-effective, but ensure it dissolves fully, especially in cold water.
• “Do we have enough powder detergent for two loads?”
8. Liquid detergent works well in my front-loader and dissolves easily.
• Liquid detergent (noun phrase) - A fluid cleaning solution for washing clothes
• Use ‘liquid detergent’ for easy measuring and quick dissolving. Great for pretreating stains directly on fabrics.
• “I like liquid detergent better—it’s less likely to clump.”
9. I add fabric softener so my towels come out extra fluffy.
• Fabric softener (noun) - A liquid added during rinsing to make clothes softer and reduce static
• Use ‘fabric softener’ to enhance clothing’s texture and scent. Avoid using it on moisture-wicking or microfiber fabrics, as it may affect absorption.
• “We’re out of fabric softener—can you pick some up?”
10. I used bleach to restore my dingy white socks.
• Bleach (noun) - A chemical used to whiten or disinfect fabrics
• Use ‘bleach’ with caution. Read instructions to avoid ruining colored items or weakening fabric. A little goes a long way.
• “Be careful—bleach can damage colors if used incorrectly.”
11. She pretreated the coffee stain with stain remover before washing.
• Stain remover (noun) - A product designed to eliminate stains or spots on fabric
• Use ‘stain remover’ for tough spots like wine, ink, or grease. Apply early, let it sit, then wash for best results.
• “Have you tried that stain remover on grass stains?”
12. He carried the clean towels in a laundry basket upstairs.
• Laundry basket (noun) - A portable container for transporting clothes to or from the washer
• Use ‘laundry basket’ to move items around quickly. Choose sturdy, lightweight baskets with handles for convenience.
• “Could you hand me the laundry basket? I’ll fold these shirts.”
13. I used the iron to smooth out my dress shirt collars.
• Iron (noun) - A handheld device that removes wrinkles with heat and pressure
• Use ‘iron’ after washing and drying, especially for business or dress wear. Adjust settings according to fabric type to avoid scorching.
• “Can you plug in the iron while I set up the ironing board?”
14. She set up the ironing board in the living room for better light.
• Ironing board (noun) - A foldable, padded surface to place clothes on for ironing
• Use ‘ironing board’ to ensure a stable, heat-resistant surface. Most fold for easy storage. Keep it locked in place during ironing.
• “Where do we store the ironing board? I need to press my pants.”
15. If you remove shirts promptly from the dryer, you’ll have fewer wrinkles.
• Wrinkles (noun) - Creases or folds in fabric, often requiring ironing or steaming
• Use ‘wrinkles’ to describe creases that form after washing and drying. Ironing, steaming, or removing clothes immediately can reduce them.
• “Any tips for reducing wrinkles in my work shirts?”
16. Dark fabrics often attract more lint in the dryer.
• Lint (noun) - Fluffy fibers that come off clothes during washing or drying
• Use ‘lint’ to describe those fuzzy bits that cling to clothes. Frequent lint removal prevents clogs and keeps garments looking clean.
• “Could you clean the lint off my sweater before I leave?”
17. I keep a lint roller by the door for last-minute touch-ups.
• Lint roller (noun) - A handheld tool with a sticky surface to remove lint or hair from fabrics
• Use ‘lint roller’ to quickly clear stray fibers or pet hair. Roll firmly over fabric, then peel off used layers as needed.
• “Where’s the lint roller? My black pants are covered in fluff!”
18. Clean the lint trap before each cycle to prevent fires and improve efficiency.
• Lint trap (noun) - A filter in the dryer that collects lint during the drying process
• Use ‘lint trap’ when referencing your dryer’s filter. Regular cleaning improves airflow and lowers energy use, also reducing fire risk.
• “Did you forget to empty the lint trap? The dryer’s taking forever.”
19. I tossed a dryer sheet in with the towels for softness.
• Dryer sheet (noun) - A sheet infused with softening agents to reduce static and add fragrance
• Use ‘dryer sheet’ to control static cling and add a pleasant scent. Place one in each load, but avoid with microfiber or athletic wear if you want to preserve wicking properties.
• “We’re out of dryer sheets; can you grab some at the store?”
20. I always hang to dry my sweaters so they don’t shrink.
• Hang to dry (phrasal verb) - A method of air-drying clothes by suspending them on a line or rack
• Use ‘hang to dry’ for delicate garments or to save energy. It can prevent fabric damage, color fading, and shrinkage from high heat.
• “Check the label—some items say hang to dry instead of tumble.”
21. She strung a clothesline in the backyard to take advantage of the sunshine.
• Clothesline (noun) - A cord or rope stretched between two points to hang laundry for air-drying
• Use ‘clothesline’ for outdoor drying. Securely tie each end and use clothespins. Sunlight can naturally bleach whites and keep garments fresh.
• “Let’s put up a clothesline this summer to save on electricity.”
22. A strong wind may blow your laundry away if you forget clothespins.
• Clothespin (noun) - A small wooden or plastic clip used to hold clothes on a clothesline
• Use ‘clothespin’ for securing garments on lines. Spring-loaded pins are common. Keep a set handy if you air-dry outdoors.
• “Grab some clothespins; the breeze is picking up.”
23. I use a collapsible drying rack in my apartment to save space.
• Collapsible drying rack (noun phrase) - A foldable stand for air-drying clothes indoors or in small spaces
• Use ‘collapsible drying rack’ for indoor or limited outdoor areas. It's portable, doesn’t occupy space when not in use, and helps avoid machine-drying.
• “Could you unfold the drying rack for these delicate tops?”
24. I threw a color catcher in with mixed colors and whites.
• Color catcher (noun) - A sheet that absorbs loose dyes in the wash to prevent color bleeding
• Use ‘color catcher’ to reduce dye transfer. Great if you can’t do separate loads for different shades. Always check colorfastness for strongly dyed items.
• “Have you used a color catcher? It saved my favorite white shirt.”
25. Excess soap residue can make clothes feel stiff.
• Soap residue (noun phrase) - Leftover detergent that hasn’t rinsed completely from fabric
• Use ‘soap residue’ when discussing leftover suds. Adjust detergent amounts or rinse cycles to ensure no buildup that irritates skin or dulls clothes.
• “Try using less detergent to avoid soap residue.”
26. My washer has an extra rinse cycle for sensitive skin needs.
• Rinse cycle (noun phrase) - The phase in laundry where water washes away detergent and dirt
• Use ‘rinse cycle’ to reference final washing steps. An extra rinse helps remove excess detergent and reduce irritation or buildup.
• “Could you add fabric softener during the rinse cycle?”
27. Overloading the dryer can lead to wrinkles and longer drying times.
• Overload (verb/noun) - Placing too many clothes in the washer or dryer at once
• Use ‘overload’ to warn about machine capacity. Follow recommended loads for better cleaning and reduced mechanical strain.
• “Be careful not to overload the washer—clothes won’t get clean.”
28. A high-efficiency machine reduces utility bills and saves resources.
• High-efficiency machine (noun phrase) - A washer or dryer designed to use less water and energy
• Use ‘high-efficiency machine’ to reference eco-friendly models. They require specialized low-sudsing detergents to prevent over-sudsing.
• “Use HE detergent in your high-efficiency machine for best results.”
29. Top-loaders sometimes need more water than front-loaders.
• Top-loader (noun) - A washing machine where clothes are loaded from the top opening
• Use ‘top-loader’ to describe a washer style that may be simpler to load. Keep water usage in mind; newer models are more efficient.
• “Do you prefer a top-loader or front-loader for easy loading?”
30. Front-loaders often use less water and can be more energy-efficient.
• Front-loader (noun) - A washing machine with a door at the front for inserting clothes
• Use ‘front-loader’ to reference washers that rotate clothes horizontally. They usually spin faster, extracting more water for quicker drying.
• “My front-loader can handle bigger loads but needs HE detergent.”
31. I browse the cycle settings to find ‘delicates’ or ‘heavy duty.’
• Cycle settings (noun phrase) - Various wash or dry programs to match fabric types, soil levels, or temperatures
• Use ‘cycle settings’ to adapt machine performance to clothing needs. Choosing the right option prevents damage and optimizes cleaning.
• “Which cycle settings do you use for bedding?”
32. I always put my lace tops on the gentle cycle to avoid snags.
• Gentle cycle (noun phrase) - A low-agitation wash setting for delicate or lightly soiled items
• Use ‘gentle cycle’ for softer fabrics or items with special instructions. It reduces friction and prolongs the garment’s life.
• “Use the gentle cycle for that sweater so it doesn’t pill.”
33. I set my shirts to permanent press so they come out less wrinkled.
• Permanent press (noun phrase) - A setting designed to minimize wrinkles and reduce ironing needs
• Use ‘permanent press’ to lessen creasing. Good for synthetics or blends that need moderate heat and tumble. Don’t overstuff the machine.
• “Try the permanent press cycle for your office attire.”
34. I do a cold wash for most colored items to prevent fading.
• Cold wash (noun phrase) - Using cold water to clean clothes, saving energy and protecting colors
• Use ‘cold wash’ to conserve energy and safeguard bright or dark hues. Good for lightly soiled clothes.
• “Try a cold wash if you’re worried about shrinkage.”
35. He uses a warm wash for towels to kill more germs.
• Warm wash (noun phrase) - Using moderately heated water for cleaning clothes
• Use ‘warm wash’ for moderately soiled items or fabrics needing mild heat. It strikes a balance between energy use and cleanliness.
• “Is warm wash okay for these jeans, or should I go cold?”
36. Hot wash helps sanitize bedding and gym clothes.
• Hot wash (noun phrase) - Using high-temperature water to deep-clean heavily soiled or germ-prone fabrics
• Use ‘hot wash’ for tough stains or materials requiring thorough sanitation (e.g., linens, towels). Check care labels to avoid damage.
• “Be sure these items can handle a hot wash—some may shrink.”
37. A pre-wash helps loosen heavy dirt on uniforms.
• Pre-wash (noun/verb phrase) - An initial short cycle or soak before the main wash
• Use ‘pre-wash’ for extra-dirty loads. Many machines have a separate compartment or setting to ensure better cleaning results.
• “I’ll do a pre-wash for these muddy pants.”
38. I let stained tees soak overnight in cold water.
• Soak (verb/noun) - Letting clothes sit in water and detergent to soften stains or dirt before washing
• Use ‘soak’ to help break down tough stains. Usually done in a basin or machine if a soak function is available.
• “Should I soak these wine-stained napkins first?”
39. Most of my jeans say ‘tumble dry low’ on the label.
• Tumble dry (verb phrase) - Using a heated dryer drum to spin clothes until dry
• Use ‘tumble dry’ for sturdy garments. Check heat level to avoid shrinkage. Remove them promptly to reduce wrinkles.
• “Let’s tumble dry these towels; they’ll get fluffier.”
40. Air dry delicate dresses to keep their shape.
• Air dry (verb phrase) - Letting clothes dry naturally, without machine heat
• Use ‘air dry’ to avoid heat damage or to save energy. Ideal for delicate fabrics and extends clothing’s lifespan.
• “I’ll air dry these linen pants to prevent shrinkage.”
41. She set a drying rack near the heater for faster drying.
• Drying rack (noun) - A frame on which clothes are hung or laid flat to air-dry
• Use ‘drying rack’ to handle items that must air-dry. Some racks have adjustable tiers for different garment sizes.
• “Could you place my sweaters flat on the drying rack?”
42. We spent half an hour folding clothes after laundry day.
• Folding clothes (noun (gerund)) - The act of neatly arranging washed garments to store or organize
• Use ‘folding clothes’ to keep your closet tidy and minimize wrinkles. Fold promptly when items are still warm to reduce ironing.
• “I’ll handle folding clothes if you start the next load.”
43. Using dryer sheets can cut down on static cling.
• Static cling (noun phrase) - An electrical charge causing clothes to stick together after drying
• Use ‘static cling’ to describe that annoying attraction between fabrics. Dryer sheets or wool dryer balls can help reduce it.
• “My sweater has major static cling—where’s the fabric softener?”
44. I used fabric freshener on my jacket that smelled stale.
• Fabric freshener (noun) - A spray or product that adds a light scent or removes odors from clothes
• Use ‘fabric freshener’ when you don’t want a full wash. Great for lightly worn items or travel. Some also help reduce wrinkles.
• “Try a fabric freshener if your clothes need a quick refresh.”
45. Sorting whites is crucial for keeping them bright.
• Sorting whites (noun (gerund)) - Separating white garments for a specialized or bleach-friendly wash
• Use ‘sorting whites’ to gather light-colored items together. Prevents them from picking up dyes from other clothes and keeps them fresh.
• “I have a small pile after sorting whites. Any more for this load?”
46. Sorting darks helps reduce color fading or bleeding onto lighter fabrics.
• Sorting darks (noun (gerund)) - Separating darker garments to wash them together
• Use ‘sorting darks’ for black, navy, or deep-toned fabrics. Wash with cold water to preserve color intensity and avoid runs.
• “I’m sorting darks—anything black or navy left in your room?”
47. After sorting colors, my reds and blues go in the same load.
• Sorting colors (noun (gerund)) - Grouping bright or medium-colored clothes to wash in one batch
• Use ‘sorting colors’ for vibrantly dyed clothes. Prevents bleeding onto whites or delicate fabrics. Consider a color catcher for safety.
• “Don’t mix that neon shirt if we’re sorting colors carefully.”
48. Stain pretreatment worked wonders on that pizza sauce mark.
• Stain pretreatment (noun phrase) - Applying a product or solution to a stain before the main wash
• Use ‘stain pretreatment’ to boost removal of tough marks. Let it soak briefly, then proceed with the usual wash cycle.
• “I’ll do a stain pretreatment on these jeans before tossing them in.”
49. The work coveralls were heavy soil after the construction job.
• Heavy soil (noun) - Clothes or linens that are heavily stained or dirt-covered
• Use ‘heavy soil’ for extremely dirty garments—think muddy or greasy. Pre-treat or run a longer, hotter cycle for thorough cleaning.
• “These are heavy soil items; should we do a separate wash?”
50. High heat can cause fabric shrinkage in cotton shirts.
• Fabric shrinkage (noun phrase) - Clothes becoming smaller due to heat or agitation during washing or drying
• Use ‘fabric shrinkage’ to describe garment size changes after laundry. Follow care labels; usually, cold wash and low heat help preserve shape.
• “To avoid fabric shrinkage, wash that sweater in cold water.”
51. My favorite sweater started pilling around the sleeves.
• Pilling (noun) - Small, fuzzy balls of fiber forming on fabrics after wear or washing
• Use ‘pilling’ to point out those pesky fuzz balls. Turn garments inside out, choose gentler cycles, and avoid friction to reduce it.
• “Is there a trick to prevent pilling on knit tops?”
52. Frequent hot washes accelerated my denim fade.
• Denim fade (noun phrase) - Loss of color intensity in jeans or denim items after multiple washes
• Use ‘denim fade’ to discuss color changes in jeans. Wash in cold water and inside out to preserve the hue longer.
• “If you want to keep them dark, minimal washing avoids denim fade.”
53. The label says ‘hand wash only’ for this cashmere scarf.
• Hand wash (verb phrase) - Cleaning clothes manually in a sink or basin rather than using a machine
• Use ‘hand wash’ for extremely delicate fabrics. Gently swirl in mild detergent, rinse thoroughly, then gently squeeze out water.
• “I’ll just hand wash my swimsuit to keep the elasticity.”
54. I zipped my lace underwear in a delicates bag before the wash.
• Delicates bag (noun phrase) - A mesh pouch used to protect fragile clothing in the washing machine
• Use ‘delicates bag’ to shield lace, undergarments, or small pieces from tangling or snagging. Zipper closure ensures everything stays contained.
• “Do you have an extra delicates bag for my bras?”
55. My wool coat needs dry cleaning once a season.
• Dry cleaning (noun (gerund)) - A professional cleaning method using solvents instead of water
• Use ‘dry cleaning’ for items labeled ‘dry clean only,’ like suits or silk blouses. Solvents remove dirt without water-based damage.
• “Is that dress machine-washable, or does it require dry cleaning?”
56. Check the iron temperature before pressing polyester or wool.
• Iron temperature (noun phrase) - The heat setting on the iron according to fabric type
• Use ‘iron temperature’ matching the garment’s label to avoid burning. Usually marked as low, medium, or high for different fabrics.
• “I kept the iron temperature too high and almost scorched my blouse.”
57. A steam iron can handle stubborn creases better than a dry iron.
• Steam iron (noun) - An iron that releases steam to help smooth wrinkles faster
• Use ‘steam iron’ for deep wrinkle removal. Keep the water reservoir filled, adjust steam level, and empty it after use to prevent mineral buildup.
• “Refill the steam iron tank—there’s not enough water left.”
58. She prefers starching her dress shirts for a professional look.
• Starching (noun (gerund)) - Applying a starch solution to fabric before ironing for a crisp finish
• Use ‘starching’ to add stiffness and structure, common for shirts or uniforms. Spray starch lightly, iron promptly, and watch for residue buildup.
• “Did you try starching your collar? It’ll look sharper.”
59. She used a bleach alternative to brighten colors without damage.
• Bleach alternative (noun phrase) - A gentler product replacing chlorine bleach, often oxygen-based
• Use ‘bleach alternative’ to safely whiten fabrics or remove stains. Less harsh on clothes than regular bleach, suitable for colored or delicate textiles.
• “Try a bleach alternative if you’re worried about chemical smells.”
60. Baby clothes often require gentle detergent to avoid irritation.
• Gentle detergent (noun phrase) - A mild soap formulated for sensitive fabrics or skin
• Use ‘gentle detergent’ for delicate materials or individuals prone to allergies. Less harsh ingredients help maintain fabric softness.
• “Pick up a gentle detergent for my new silk blouse, please.”
61. Allergen-free detergent helped reduce his itchy reactions after laundry day.
• Allergen-free detergent (noun phrase) - Laundry soap designed without common irritants or fragrances
• Use ‘allergen-free detergent’ if you have eczema or allergies. It excludes heavy perfumes and dyes that irritate sensitive skin.
• “Switching to an allergen-free detergent might help your skin issues.”
62. She prefers fragrance-free products to avoid headaches.
• Fragrance-free (adjective) - Containing no added perfumes or scents
• Use ‘fragrance-free’ for a neutral result. Ideal for sensitive noses or if you prefer no competing scents on clothes.
• “Any fragrance-free options for detergent at this store?”
63. Choosing the right load size helps clothes wash thoroughly.
• Load size (noun phrase) - The amount of laundry put into the washer or dryer at one time
• Use ‘load size’ to match water levels or machine capacity. Overloading or underloading can affect cleaning and energy usage.
• “Our machine has small, medium, and large load size options.”
64. The normal cycle time is about 45 minutes, but heavy duty can be longer.
• Cycle time (noun phrase) - The duration of a chosen wash or dry cycle
• Use ‘cycle time’ to plan tasks around laundry. Short cycles save time but might not clean heavy soil thoroughly.
• “What’s the cycle time on your washer for a quick load?”
65. A solid laundry routine keeps her from drowning in dirty shirts.
• Laundry routine (noun phrase) - A consistent method or schedule for washing and folding clothes
• Use ‘laundry routine’ for overall planning. It helps prevent backup of dirty clothes and ensures daily wear is always available.
• “What’s your laundry routine—every Sunday, or do you wash as needed?”
66. He used a quick wash for his gym gear before heading out again.
• Quick wash (noun phrase) - A shorter cycle for lightly soiled items needing a rapid clean
• Use ‘quick wash’ for minimal stains. Saves time, but not ideal for heavily soiled garments. Great for daily or lightly worn clothes.
• “Try the quick wash if your clothes just need freshening.”
67. Wrinkle release spray saved my blouse before an important meeting.
• Wrinkle release (noun phrase) - A spray or dryer setting aimed at relaxing fabric wrinkles without ironing
• Use ‘wrinkle release’ as a quick fix for light wrinkles. Sprays can be gently smoothed by hand; dryer settings refresh garments quickly.
• “Throw your dress in the dryer on a wrinkle release cycle.”
68. Our dryer has a towel cycle that handles thick fabrics well.
• Towel cycle (noun phrase) - A high-heat or heavy-duty setting specifically for drying towels thoroughly
• Use ‘towel cycle’ for maximum heat and time. Towels can hold a lot of water, so a dedicated cycle ensures they dry completely.
• “Set it to the towel cycle—these bath sheets are huge.”
69. She washes bed linens every two weeks.
• Bed linens (noun (plural)) - Sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers used on beds
• Use ‘bed linens’ for all bedding that contacts skin. Washing them regularly promotes hygiene and a comfortable sleeping environment.
• “I’ll swap out the bed linens and wash the old set today.”
70. I switch my pillowcase twice a week to reduce acne.
• Pillowcase (noun) - A removable cover that encases a pillow
• Use ‘pillowcase’ in the context of bed linen sets. Wash regularly for cleanliness and better skin health if you sweat or use hair products.
• “Grab an extra pillowcase—this one got stained with hair oil.”
71. I use the hot water setting for musty gym towels.
• Hot water setting (noun phrase) - An option to use heated water in the washing machine for a thorough clean
• Use ‘hot water setting’ for sanitizing or removing deep dirt. Some fabrics can shrink or fade, so always confirm label instructions first.
• “Check if these sheets can handle the hot water setting.”
72. Residue build-up can make towels less absorbent over time.
• Residue build-up (noun phrase) - Accumulation of leftover soap or softener in fabric or machine parts
• Use ‘residue build-up’ to highlight the need for routine cleaning of the machine. Also, use correct detergent dosages to minimize leftover film.
• “I think the residue build-up is causing a funky smell in the washer.”
73. Don’t use fabric softener on a microfiber cloth or it may lose absorbency.
• Microfiber cloth (noun) - A highly absorbent synthetic cloth often used for cleaning and detailing
• Use ‘microfiber cloth’ for cleaning or quick-dry towels. Wash them without softener and with mild detergent to preserve performance.
• “Wash my microfiber cloths separately to avoid lint transfer, please.”
74. We bought a sorting hamper to divide whites, darks, and colors.
• Sorting hamper (noun phrase) - A multi-section container to separate laundry by color or fabric
• Use ‘sorting hamper’ to quickly identify loads. Each section can hold a different category, saving time on laundry day.
• “The sorting hamper makes pre-wash organizing so much easier.”
75. Sunday is my dedicated laundry day—no excuses.
• Laundry day (noun phrase) - A designated time to wash, dry, and fold clothes
• Use ‘laundry day’ to plan a regular schedule. Having a set day keeps chores manageable and prevents a backlog of dirty garments.
• “Ready for laundry day? Let’s tackle those piles.”
76. He covered the hole in his jeans with an iron-on patch.
• Iron-on patch (noun phrase) - A fabric piece with adhesive on one side that bonds to clothing when heat is applied
• Use ‘iron-on patch’ for minor repairs or stylish embellishments. Follow instructions: place patch, iron with pressure, let it cool to adhere.
• “Grab an iron-on patch to fix that tear quickly.”
77. Always check wash instructions to prevent mistakes like shrinking wool.
• Wash instructions (noun phrase) - Guidelines on clothing labels indicating how to clean each garment
• Use ‘wash instructions’ to follow specific care needs: temperature, cycle, or drying method. Reading labels prevents costly errors.
• “The wash instructions say cold water only, so be careful.”
78. The clothing label said ‘hand wash only’ in mild detergent.
• Clothing label (noun phrase) - A sewn-on tag that provides size, fabric content, and care details
• Use ‘clothing label’ as the first reference for laundry care. Complying ensures items remain in good condition longer.
• “Check the clothing label to see if it’s machine-washable.”
79. My linen pants say hang-dry only, so I skip the dryer.
• Hang-dry only (adjective phrase) - A label instruction indicating the garment shouldn’t be tumble-dried
• Use ‘hang-dry only’ to emphasize items that can’t handle dryer heat. Ensures longevity and maintains shape or color vibrancy.
• “This is hang-dry only—don’t toss it in with the towels.”
80. Most cotton tees are machine-washable, making them easy to care for.
• Machine-washable (adjective) - Safe to clean in a washing machine
• Use ‘machine-washable’ to confirm whether an item can handle mechanical action. Saves time over hand washing or dry cleaning.
• “Is this blanket machine-washable, or do I need to hand wash?”
81. The heavy-duty cycle is perfect for filthy sports uniforms.
• Heavy-duty cycle (noun phrase) - A powerful wash setting designed for very dirty or bulky items
• Use ‘heavy-duty cycle’ for thick fabrics, tough stains, or large loads. It offers more agitation and a longer wash time.
• “I use the heavy-duty cycle for muddy work clothes.”
82. She switched to eco-friendly detergent to cut down on chemicals.
• Eco-friendly detergent (noun phrase) - A laundry soap made with biodegradable or plant-based ingredients to reduce environmental impact
• Use ‘eco-friendly detergent’ if you prefer sustainable ingredients. It can be milder on fabrics and may come in recyclable packaging.
• “Got any recommendations for an eco-friendly detergent?”
83. He selected the stain cycle for ketchup spills on his shirt.
• Stain cycle (noun phrase) - A washer setting that includes extra agitation or soak time to combat tough spots
• Use ‘stain cycle’ for persistent marks, typically includes pre-soak or extra rinse. Combine with pretreatment for best results.
• “Does your machine have a stain cycle for deep cleaning?”
84. I like detergent pods—they’re mess-free and easy to use.
• Detergent pod (noun phrase) - A pre-measured capsule of detergent and sometimes softener or stain-fighter
• Use ‘detergent pod’ for convenient dosing. Keep them away from children or pets and confirm your machine type for correct dissolving.
• “Be sure to place the detergent pod in the drum before clothes.”
85. Check the front panel for the ‘add garment’ light if you forgot a sock.
• Front panel (noun phrase) - The control interface on a front-loading machine, including settings and displays
• Use ‘front panel’ to locate cycles, indicators, or error messages. Keep it clean to ensure buttons and dials function smoothly.
• “The front panel is blinking—did we forget to close the door?”
86. He checked the fabric care symbols to confirm if bleach was safe.
• Fabric care symbols (noun phrase) - Pictograms on labels indicating recommended washing, bleaching, drying, and ironing instructions
• Use ‘fabric care symbols’ to quickly decode laundry needs. Common icons show water temperature, tumble settings, or if ironing is allowed.
• “These fabric care symbols can be confusing; let’s look them up.”
87. The agitator in older washers can be rough on delicate items.
• Agitator (noun) - A spindle in top-load washers that moves clothes around during the cycle
• Use ‘agitator’ referencing the vertical post in top-loaders. It helps loosen dirt but might be harsh on fragile fabrics. Choose gentler cycles for delicates.
• “Our new machine is agitator-free, so it’s gentler on clothes.”
88. Pre-treat the coffee spill so it doesn’t set into the fabric.
• Pre-treat (verb) - To apply cleaning agent to a stain before the main wash
• Use ‘pre-treat’ for early stain removal. Dabbing or brushing lightly can help the product penetrate. Rinse or wash soon after for best outcome.
• “I’ll pre-treat this sauce spot with some stain remover.”
89. Too many suds indicate you’ve used excess detergent.
• Suds (noun (plural)) - Foamy bubbles formed by detergent and water during washing
• Use ‘suds’ when describing the foam in washing. Excess can lead to soap residue. Follow detergent guidelines to prevent oversudsing.
• “Look at the suds pouring out—that’s a sign of over-soaping.”
90. Paper towels advertised as lint-free are good for glassware, but check if they’re laundry safe.
• Lint-free (adjective) - Not shedding or collecting small fibers
• Use ‘lint-free’ for specialized towels or cloths used in tasks that demand no leftover fibers, like cleaning windows or polishing surfaces.
• “Do you have a lint-free cloth to wipe my glasses?”
91. The machine beeped due to uneven load balance—time to rearrange clothes.
• Load balance (noun phrase) - Even distribution of garments in the washer or dryer to prevent shaking or noise
• Use ‘load balance’ to emphasize distributing items evenly around the drum. Improves cleaning, protects the motor, and reduces vibration.
• “Ensure good load balance or the spin cycle will rock the washer.”
92. I added a residue rinse to avoid buildup on my sportswear.
• Residue rinse (noun phrase) - An extra rinse to clear leftover detergent or softener from fabrics
• Use ‘residue rinse’ for sensitive skin or heavily soiled loads. Eliminates leftover chemicals, keeps fabric fresh, and reduces skin irritation.
• “If your clothes feel sticky, try a residue rinse setting.”
93. He tossed his muddy pants into the clothes hamper by the door.
• Clothes hamper (noun phrase) - Another term for a basket or container to hold laundry
• Use ‘clothes hamper’ to keep soiled garments in one spot. It’s typically a standing container with a lid or open top.
• “Can you bring the clothes hamper downstairs? It’s laundry day.”
94. She used spray starch on her tablecloth for a neater look.
• Spray starch (noun phrase) - A solution sprayed on fabric before ironing for crispness and stiffness
• Use ‘spray starch’ for a polished finish on shirts or linens. Lightly mist and iron immediately to avoid residue or flaking.
• “Could you pass the spray starch? I want these collars to stand out.”
95. My dryer’s steam setting freshens wrinkled clothes fast.
• Steam setting (noun phrase) - An option on some dryers or irons that releases steam to reduce wrinkles
• Use ‘steam setting’ to remove light wrinkles or refresh clothes. Check garments first—some fabrics may not handle extra moisture.
• “Try the steam setting—no need to iron those pants.”
96. Always check recommended wash temperature on the garment label.
• Wash temperature (noun phrase) - The level of heat in the water used to clean clothes
• Use ‘wash temperature’ to match fabric needs. Cold preserves colors, hot sanitizes. Warm is a balanced choice for everyday loads.
• “What wash temperature are you using for these blankets?”
97. Dryer balls cut static and fluff up my laundry naturally.
• Dryer balls (noun (plural)) - Spherical objects, often wool, placed in the dryer to help separate clothes and reduce drying time
• Use ‘dryer balls’ to lift and separate laundry for faster, softer drying. They’re reusable, eco-friendly, and can help reduce static.
• “Have you tried wool dryer balls instead of sheets?”
98. A quick ironing water spray helps me handle stubborn creases.
• Ironing water spray (noun phrase) - A mist of water applied to clothes for easier ironing and wrinkle removal
• Use ‘ironing water spray’ to moisten fabric lightly before ironing. Delicate items benefit from a gentle mist; don’t soak them.
• “Refill the bottle for ironing water spray, please.”
99. My favorite shirt is getting threadbare after so many washes.
• Threadbare (adjective) - Worn down fabric so thin that threads show, indicating extensive wear or washing
• Use ‘threadbare’ to describe garments nearing the end of usefulness. Washing gently or less frequently may slow wear.
• “Those old towels are almost threadbare—time for a new set?”
100. Fluffing the pile of a towel helps it stay absorbent.
• Pile (noun) - The raised surface of a fabric, like the loops on towels or plush materials
• Use ‘pile’ when referencing texture. For towels, a healthy pile means better absorption. Gentle wash cycles preserve it longer.
• “Brush the pile on the blanket so it looks even.”
101. That red scarf is bleeding color—wash it separately.
• Bleeding color (noun phrase) - When dye runs out of fabric and potentially stains other items
• Use ‘bleeding color’ to warn about fresh dyes. Do a separate wash or use a color catcher. Over time, repeated washing often stabilizes the dye.
• “Watch out for bleeding color on new jeans.”