Many people notice that clothes washed in a washing machine often wear out faster than expected, sometimes even tearing. This happens because, regardless of the type of machine, its mechanical force is far stronger than hand washing, which naturally causes more stress on fabrics. Overloading the machine can make this worse. When too many clothes are packed tightly into the drum, they rub against each other as the drum spins, increasing the likelihood of stretching, pilling, and tearing.

Another common mistake is careless loading. Tossing clothes in haphazardly can cause them to twist together, making the fabric more prone to damage as the machine struggles to distribute items evenly. Delicate fabrics, in particular, suffer from this, while heavier items like jeans can pull on lighter fabrics, creating snags or holes over time. A surprisingly simple trick can help reduce this damage: placing two plastic water bottles inside the drum along with the clothes.

As the machine operates, the bottles move with the laundry, acting as a buffer that reduces friction between fabrics. This keeps clothes from tangling, twisting, or rubbing excessively against each other, which helps preserve both the shape and texture of garments. For best results, make sure the bottles are clean and tightly closed, and avoid using oversized or irregularly shaped bottles that could disrupt the washing cycle.

Pairing this trick with proper sorting of clothes by fabric type and washing temperature further enhances garment longevity. This method is safe for most types of washing machines and is particularly effective for delicate items, knitwear, and clothes that are prone to stretching or tearing. By following these simple steps, you can protect your wardrobe, keep fabrics looking new, and even save money by reducing wear and tear. Incorporating small hacks like this into your laundry routine ensures your clothes remain in great condition for longer, making washing less stressful and helping your garments maintain their color, shape, and quality wash after wash.