Not all laundry nets are the same! Learn how to use them the right way to keep your clothes looking their best, wash after wash.
A simple net can protect your clothes and help them last. But if used the wrong way, it can actually ruin them.
Choosing the right net and using it properly keeps your laundry clean and damaged-free. Here’s a simple guide to help you get the most out of your laundry nets.
Everything you need to know about laundry nets
Laundry nets are small bags made of mesh that protect clothes while washing. You put delicate or easily damaged clothes inside, like lace, knits, or shirts with buttons, to prevent stretching, snagging, or fading.
In Japan, laundry nets are very popular and widely used in households as they are considered an essential laundry tool for keeping clothes in good condition. People also use different types of nets depending on the fabric.
If you use laundry nets, you might be wondering:
- Do all clothes require a laundry net?
- Which type of laundry nets is right for my clothes?
- How full should the laundry net be?
Let’s clear up these common questions so you can wash your clothes confidently.
What clothes should go in a laundry net, and what shouldn’t
Not all clothes need to go into a laundry net, but using one for the right items can protect them from damage.
Good for laundry nets:
- Soft fabrics like knits or delicate tops
- Thin materials such as lace or tulle
- Clothes with buttons, hooks, sequins, or embroidery
- Items prone to stretching
Not necessary for laundry nets:
- Heavy items like towels, blankets, or bedding
- Durable everyday clothes that can handle normal washing
- Oversized items that don’t fit properly in a net
Simply put, you can use laundry nets for soft or fragile fabrics to keep them safe during washing. Hardwearing or bulky items usually don’t need a net, as they can handle the wash on their own.
How to choose the right laundry net and use it correctly
Getting the right laundry net and know how to use it properly can make a big difference in keeping your clothes looking great after every wash.
Types of laundry nets and what they’re good for
These are the most common material of laundry nets and what each one’s best for:
- Fine mesh nets: Prevent snagging, stretching, and damage from friction, and also keep lint off. Best for delicate fabrics like lace, tulle, or embroidered items that need gentle care.
- Coarse mesh nets: Allow water and detergent to flow easily for better cleaning. Ideal for sturdier fabrics like jeans or sportswear.
- Padded or cushioned nets: Provide gentle cushioning that helps absorb movement during washing to prevent deformation. Great for knits, lingerie, or items prone to losing shape.
Laundry nets also come in a variety of shapes and sizes to give you the right fit and protection for every garment, such as:
- Square laundry nets: Flat, two-dimensional shape. They allow clothes to be placed in a folded or flat manner.
- Cylindrical laundry nets: Three-dimensional, barrel-like shape. They provide more tumble room and less confinement to a flat fold.
- Specialty nets: Designed with features like built-in frames, compartments, or are made for specific items like bras, hats, or shoes. They are worth keeping on hand if you wash these items often.
Always pick a net that works with your machine type, whether top-load or front-load. Also, check if the net can go in the dryer if you plan to tumble dry, as not all nets are heat-resistant.
Basic laundry net tips
Here are some simple tips to follow when using laundry nets:
- Pre-treat stains: Tackle stains before washing so your laundry nets can focus on protecting your clothes without compromising cleaning.
- Turn decorated items inside out: Place clothes with sequins, embroidery, or other embellishments inside the bag with the decorated side inwards to protect them from abrasion.
- Use the right size net: Choose a net slightly larger than the item you’re washing, as too small can compress clothes while too large may cause friction inside the net.
- Don’t overfill the net: Leave enough space for clothes to move slightly inside the net so they clean evenly (more on this later).
- Wash similar items together: Group fabric by colour and type to prevent damage, and wash them on the appropriate cycle.
- Zip the net completely: Make sure the zipper is fully closed and tucked under any elastic or protective cover to prevent the net from opening during the wash cycle.
How many items to put in a laundry net?
Keep clothes loose in the bag and aim for no more than two-thirds or about 80% of its capacity at the maximum for best wash results.
Clothes need space to move around inside the bag for water and detergent to circulate and agitate properly. Overpacking can cause them to not clean well, and may stretch or even burst the net.
For highly delicate items, you can place each piece in its own bag to ensure it stays protected and gets thoroughly cleaned.
Tips to maintain laundry nets
Remove clothes from the nets right after each wash and hang the nets to dry. Make sure they’re clean and completely dry before storing to prevent odours, mildew, and extend their lifespan.
Never store a damp net, as the mesh can trap moisture and lead to mould growth. If they start to smell musty, hand wash them with a mild detergent or a vinegar solution.
Regularly inspect your laundry nets for wear and tear. Worn or stretched nets lose protection and may even ruin clothes, so replace them when needed.
Wash smarter, wash better!
Using the right laundry nets can save you time, prevent mishaps, and keep your clothes clean and last longer. With a little care, these simple tools can make your laundry routine more effective and worry-free.
