Effective laundry care begins with deliberate sorting and careful load distribution. Prioritising weight and fabric type reduces the risk of garments stretching, losing shape or sustaining wear during wash cycles. An evenly balanced drum minimises vibration and mechanical stress, and appropriate cycle and spin choices protect delicate fibres. Below are practical guidelines to help you form loads that clean well while preserving the structure and appearance of clothes.

How to assess load weight and balance

Start each wash by estimating the weight and bulk of the items you plan to include. Separate heavy items—towels, jeans, bedding—from lightweight garments such as t-shirts, shirts and underwear. Avoid mixing a single heavy item with multiple light items in one load; this often causes an off-centre load that increases vibration and can warp delicate fabrics. Distribute heavier pieces evenly around the drum so the machine can spin smoothly and maintain balance throughout the cycle.

Which cycles and spin settings suit different fabrics

Choose cycles based on both soil level and fabric sensitivity. Use gentle or delicates programmes with low spin speeds for knitwear, lingerie and anything with elastane or lace. Normal or cotton cycles with higher spin speeds are suitable for durable fabrics like cotton and polyester blends. If your machine allows custom spin adjustments, reduce spin for fragile batches to limit stretching and for robust loads select higher spin to remove excess water efficiently.

Detergent dosing and stain treatment

Correct detergent dosing affects fabric feel and longevity. Use the manufacturer’s dosing recommendations adjusted for the actual load size and water hardness; excess detergent can leave residues that make fibres stiff and more prone to damage, while too little may require repeat washing. Treat stains before washing with appropriate stain removers and consider specialised detergents for wool or silk. Using dosing caps or built-in automated dosing systems helps achieve consistent results without overuse.

Temperature, water use and energy efficiency

Select the lowest effective temperature to protect fibres—cold or 30°C washes are often sufficient for lightly soiled items, reducing shrinkage and colour loss. Full but not overloaded loads improve energy and water efficiency by cutting the number of cycles needed. For heavily soiled textiles, pre-treat stains and wash separately rather than increasing temperature for mixed loads. Efficient use of water and energy extends garment life by avoiding excessive thermal and mechanical stress.

Filters, sensors, vibration and routine maintenance

Keep filters and detergent compartments clean to ensure proper water flow and rinsing; trapped residues can abrade fabrics during cycles. Modern appliances include sensors that detect load weight and balance—rely on these features to adjust cycles automatically. If you notice persistent vibration, stop the machine and redistribute the load; check feet, shock absorbers and drum mounts during regular maintenance to prevent mechanical issues that could damage clothing.

Scheduling, load size and long-term care

Plan washing schedules to match garment care needs: wash delicates separately and avoid leaving damp fabrics in the drum after a cycle, as prolonged dampness can deform fibres and encourage odours. Use laundry bags for small or ornate items and fasten zips and buttons to reduce abrasion. When possible, air-dry sensitive fabrics flat to retain shape; tumble dry only when care labels permit and on low heat. Consistent attention to scheduling and appropriate drying methods preserves form and reduces the chance of irreversible deformations.

Conclusion Preventing garment deformation requires a combination of sensible sorting by weight and fabric, correct cycle and spin selection, accurate detergent dosing and routine appliance maintenance. Even distribution of weight within the drum reduces vibration and mechanical stress, while appropriate temperatures and stain treatment protect fibre integrity. Applying these practices helps keep clothes looking and fitting as intended, while also improving energy and water efficiency over time.