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Are you tired of shrinking your favorite sweaters or turning your light-colored clothes pink every time you do the laundry? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! The good news is that the secret to decoding and achieving perfect laundry care lies in those tiny tags you find within your clothes. The laundry tag symbols are treasure troves of information, as long as you know how to read them. In this blog, our experts will teach you how to read the laundry symbols and share some handy laundromat tips to keep your clothes looking their best. 

The Key to Proper Clothing Care

Those tiny labels are actually incredibly helpful in determining the best way to care for your clothes. The icons are standardized international symbols designed to provide specific care instructions that are understood universally. They’re divided into four primary categories:

• Washtub = Washing 

• Square = Drying 

• Iron = Ironing

• Triangle = Bleaching 

Below, we’ll break down each and how to care for your clothes based on these laundry tag symbols. 

Washing Symbol

Arguably the most important symbol, washing symbols tell you at what temperature to wash your clothes and the type of washing cycles that are safe for your items. Usually, the temperature is indicated by the number of dots on the washing symbol, and the more dots that are listed, the hotter the temperature. Additionally, the lines underneath represent the different cycle options. 

• Washtub with no lines: Normal wash
• Washtub with one line underneath: Permanent press cycle
• Washtub with two lines underneath: Gentle cycle
• Washtub with hand: Hand wash
• Washtub with an X across: Do not wash
• Twisted garment with an X across: Do not wring out the garment

Drying Symbol

Drying is the most delicate step in the laundry process. Yet, understanding the different drying symbols can help you avoid damaging your clothes. Drying symbols are represented by squares, but you’ll also want to pay attention to the circles inside the squares.

• Square with a circle in the center: Normal dry cycle
• Square with a circle in the center and an extra line underneath: Permanent press
• Square with a circle in the center and two extra lines underneath: Delicate cycle
• Square with an X going through it: Do not put them in the dryer
• Square with a circle in the center and an X going through it: Do not tumble dry

Similar to washing symbols, drying ones also have dots indicating the type of heat. You will see: 

• Blacked-out circle: No heat/air
• One dot: Low heat
• Two dots: Medium heat
• Three dots: High heat
• 0 dots: Any heat

Ironing Symbol

The ironing symbol is easy to identify; it’s a picture of an iron. Just like the washing and drying symbols, you’ll see dots indicating the temperature:

• Iron with one dot: Cool
• Iron with two dots: Warm
• Iron with three dots: Hot
• Iron with an X over it: Do not iron
• Iron with lines coming out from the bottom with an X over the lines: Do not steam

Bleaching Symbol

Bleaching symbols are the easiest to read and understand; they’re always represented by triangles. To know if it’s safe to bleach your clothes, follow these guidelines: 

• Empty triangle: You can bleach as you please
• Striped triangle: Use only non-chlorine bleach
• Filled triangle with an X: Do not use bleach

Laundromat Tips With Bakers Centre Laundry

Now that you understand those tricky laundry symbols, we can take a look at some tips to ensure your clothes always come out smelling and looking fresh: 

• Separate your clothes by color and fabric type

• Use the correct amount of detergent

• Wash your clothes in cold water

• Use the gentle or delicate cycle

• Air dry your clothes whenever possible 

By understanding your laundry tag symbols and following these simple tips, you can maximize the lifespan of your clothes and ensure they always look their best. If you have any questions or need additional help, visit your favorite local laundromat, Bakers Centre Laundry! 

We’ve all been there; you’ve just finished an intense workout, and your activewear smells less than pleasant and is soaked in sweat. The good news is that keeping your gym clothes clean and smelling fresh doesn’t have to be a struggle. Below, we share the six best laundry tips for properly cleaning your activewear.

Read the labels.

First things first: always read the labels on your workout clothes before tossing them into the laundry! Pay attention to specific instructions like temperature settings and cycles. Not following these guidelines can cause damage to your gym clothes.  

Sort out synthetic fabrics.

When washing your workout clothes, it’s essential to separate synthetic materials from cotton or other natural fibers. Synthetic fabrics like polyester or spandex are commonly found in workout clothes, as they help wick moisture away from your skin. Wash them separately in cold water to keep them looking and feeling their best. 

Use the correct detergent.

Activewear detergents are essential for keeping your workout clothes clean and fresh. Traditional laundry detergents can contain harsh chemicals that can damage synthetic fibers, causing them to lose shape and elasticity. Instead, choose a detergent that’s designed for activewear. These detergents are specially formulated to remove sweat, bacteria, and odors without damaging the fabric or compromising the garment’s performance.

Wash in cold water.

One of the most important things to remember when learning how to wash your activewear is the water temperature. Hot water can actually damage the synthetic fibers in your workout clothes, making them less stretchy and supportive. Washing your activewear in cold water not only helps preserve the fabric but also saves energy and money. If your gear is particularly stained or dirty, pre-treat it with a stain remover before washing. 

Avoid fabric softeners.

While fabric softeners may make your regular clothes feel soft and smell great, they’re not ideal for using on workout clothes. Softeners tend to coat fibers, which can reduce their ability to wick away moisture. Instead, try a white vinegar rinse (one cup during the rinse cycle) to naturally soften and deodorize your gym clothes. 

Air it out.

When drying your workout gear, air drying is the best option. The high heat from a dryer can damage delicate synthetic fabrics and reduce their ability to wick moisture over time. To speed up the drying process, roll your activewear in a clean, dry towel before hanging it up to absorb excess water. 

Visit Bakers Centre Laundry for All Your Needs

Not everyone has access to a laundry room with ample space for air-drying clothes, and that’s where your local laundromat comes in handy! Laundromats like Bakers Centre Laundry have large-capacity washers and dryers, which make cleaning big loads of activewear a breeze – perfect for athletes or families with lots of gear to clean! Plus, if you’re unsure how to wash your activewear, the staff at your local laundromat can provide helpful advice. Stop by today and earn FREE dry dollars when you wash at Bakers Centre Laundry, or try our 24-hour drop-off laundry service.

Laundry day can feel daunting, especially for those with busy schedules and large households. The piles of dirty clothes, sorting, washing, and folding can feel never-ending. But there’s a solution that can save you time, energy, and potentially even money—heading to a full-service laundromat. At Bakers Centre Laundry, we offer several solutions to make your life easier, including drop-off laundry services. Below, we highlight how we can help you conquer laundry day so you feel less stressed. 

Full-Service Laundry Solutions With Bakers Centre Laundry 

At Bakers Centre Laundry, we offer more than just a place to wash and dry your clothes. We’re a spot where you can reclaim your weekends, say goodbye to laundry-related stress, and enjoy the convenience of professional wash and fold services. Let’s dive into the key offerings that set us apart.

24 Hour Self Serve Laundromat: Your Laundry On Your Time

Laundry never takes a break, and sometimes, neither do you. In a world where schedules are often hectic and unpredictable, having access to a 24-hour self-serve laundromat can be a game-changer. Bakers Centre Laundry is here to provide you with the ultimate laundry experience that revolves around your time and schedule. Remember, when you wash with us, you earn FREE DRY DOLLARS!

24-Hour Drop-Off Laundry: Convenience at Your Fingertips

In our fast-paced lives, convenience is essential. Bakers Centre Laundry understands this and offers a drop-off laundry option. Simply gather your laundry, drop it off at the laundromat, and let us take care of the rest. You can pick up your clean laundry at your convenience, freeing up your schedule for more important tasks. Drop-off services are great for busy professionals, parents, and anyone looking to streamline their daily routine. It’s a simple yet effective way to outsource your laundry chore, leaving you more time to focus on what matters most.

Full-Service Laundry: A Comprehensive Solution to Your Laundry Woes

Bakers Centre Laundry goes the extra mile by offering a full-service laundry experience. This means you can bring in all your laundry needs, from delicates to workout gear and even larger items like comforters. No need to worry about the capacity of your home washing machine or the hassle of lugging heavy loads to and from your house– we’ve got you covered.

Our state-of-the-art machines and expert staff can handle all types of laundry, ensuring your items are thoroughly cleaned and maintained. This comprehensive service is not only convenient but also cost-effective, as you can wash all your laundry at once.

Additional Benefits of Laundering at a Laundromat 

Apart from our primary services mentioned above, there are several other reasons to make Bakers Centre Laundry your go-to laundromat for clean clothes and convenience: 

• Affordability 

We offer competitive pricing, making professional laundry services accessible to everyone. 

• Environmental Responsibility

We are committed to eco-friendly practices, using energy-efficient machines and eco-friendly detergents to minimize our environmental impact. 

• Safety and Cleanliness 

We maintain a clean and safe environment with regular cleaning and sanitization protocols.

Choose Bakers Centre Laundry

Laundry doesn’t have to be a source of stress and exhaustion. Bakers Centre Laundry is here to help you conquer laundry overwhelm with its full-service laundry offerings. Make laundry day a breeze when you visit Bakers Centre Laundry today and experience the convenience and quality of our services.

A trip to the laundromat can sometimes feel like a chore, but with the right approach, you can turn it into a convenient and hassle-free experience. Below, we’ll explore ten essential laundromat tips that will help you navigate the laundromat scene with ease. 

Preparation is Key 

Before you head to the laundromat, it’s essential to be prepared. Sort the clothes you want to wash into categories such as whites, colors, delicates, and heavy fabrics. This will help streamline the process once you’re at the laundromat, ensuring you don’t waste time figuring out what to wash next. 

Gather Supplies 

Pack a laundry bag with all the essentials, including detergent, fabric softener, stain remover, dryer sheets, and any other laundry products you prefer. Having everything at hand will save you from making multiple trips to the store or fumbling around at the laundromat. 

Timing is Everything

Choose the optimal time for your laundromat trip. Avoid peak hours when the laundromat is likely to be crowded. Weekdays during working hours or early mornings on weekends are usually quieter times, allowing you to finish your laundry more quickly and efficiently. 

Load Strategically 

When it comes to loading your laundry into the machines, efficiency is paramount. Overloading the machines can lead to subpar results and longer drying times. Follow the instructions on the machines for load capacity and distribute your laundry evenly to ensure a thorough wash. 

Use a Laundry App

Imagine having the convenience of a personal laundry assistant right at your fingertips! At Bakers Centre Laundry, our laundry app, LaundryCat App, offers our customers a convenient and cashless way to tackle their dirty laundry. All you need is a smartphone to use the LaundryCat App. Our app allows you to pay for and start laundry machines with the tap of a button. After creating your account, you can add funds and begin! You will have total control over your laundry payment and operation, all from the convenience of your phone. 

Multi-Task With Care

While it’s tempting to leave the laundromat while your laundry is running, be cautious if you decide to step away. Set a timer on your phone to ensure you return promptly when your cycle is complete. Leaving your belongings unattended not only inconveniences others but also poses a security risk. 

Fold and Sort at the Laundromat 

Instead of carting your clean laundry home in a messy heap, take advantage of the folding tables provided. Fold and sort your laundry on-site to prevent wrinkles and make the unpacking process at home much smoother. 

Consider Large Items 

Don’t forget to factor in larger items such as comforters, blankets, and pillows. Laundromat machines are equipped to handle these items, and washing them periodically will keep them fresh and clean. 

Laundromat Etiquette 

It’s important to remember your laundromat etiquette. Respect the communal space by keeping it clean and tidy. Dispose of lint properly, wipe down any spilled detergent, and ensure your laundry area is left as you found it. You should also be respectful of the employees; remember they are just trying to help you, and raising your voice doesn’t help with your issue! 

Make It Enjoyable 

Turn your laundromat trip into a pleasant experience. Bring along your favorite podcast, create a playlist, or engage in friendly conversations with fellow patrons. Doing something you enjoy can make the chore feel less mundane.

Laundromat Tips With the Bakers Centre Laundry Professionals

By following these essential tips, you can transform your trip to the laundromat into a pleasant experience. Say goodbye to laundry day stress and hello to a hassle-free approach to clean clothes at Bakers Centre Laundry.

Doing your laundry might seem like a relatively straightforward and simple task. While you may know the basics of doing laundry, it is not as effortless as you might think. There are plenty of little tricks and tips for washing and drying your clothes that will result in better care and a more effective wash. To ensure your clothes finish clean and fresh, you must understand how to properly treat and wash your clothes and how each washing machine works. Our team of experts at Bakers Centre Laundry has compiled a list of helpful laundry tips to help you understand the proper Do’s and Don’ts for the most effective ways to do your laundry. 

Do – For Best Results

Understand How to Separate Laundry

Your clothes should be divided into four categories: whites, lights, darks, and delicates. Learning how to separate laundry will prevent any color bleeding. Clothes should be sorted by both fabric and color so that heavier items are not washed with delicate ones. Heavily soiled items should be washed separately to keep dirt from spreading to more clothes.

Check Care Labels

Before you wash your clothes you should always check the care labels for proper washing instructions and guidelines. This will help you with separating the items, and outline the best wash cycle and temperature to set your machine.

Use the Correct Amount of Detergent

Not only do you need to properly read the labels on your clothing items, but on the packaging of your detergent as well. Always use the measuring cap to ensure the proper amount of liquid detergent. If you are washing whites, be sure to understand how to use bleach in the laundry so you do not ruin your clothes.

Use Accurate Water Temperature

Cotton, denim, and other heavy fabrics can shrink in warm water so should always be washed in cold water. 

Leave Your Door Open After Use

When you finish washing a load of laundry, leave your washing machine door open a. This will allow it to air out, helping to prevent any growth of mold or mildew.

Clean Your Washing Machine

You probably overlook washing an appliance that is constantly using soap and water, but it is important to regularly clean your washing machine. Run your machine on a hot cycle with a cup of white vinegar to help sanitize the machine and remove any lingering odors. 

Don’t – Avoid These Mistakes

Overload Your Machine

When clothes are stuffed into the machine they cannot move around enough to get a proper clean and can remain dirty.

Leave Things In Pockets

Be sure to check all of your pockets for things like tissues, pens, or money before putting clothes in the washing machine. 

Pour Fabric Softener Directly On Clothes

Fabric softeners should never be poured directly onto your clothing. Direct contact with clothes could stain them.

Use Too Much Detergent or Bleach

Adding an excessive amount of laundry detergent or bleach could result in residue remaining on your clothing. Adding more detergent will not result in cleaner clothes. If you are unsure how to use bleach in the laundry, be sure to carefully read the label for proper measurements. 

Leave Wet Clothes In the Washing Machine

We have all forgotten our clothes in the washing machine. Moisture from wet clothes can result in the growth of mold in your washing machine, or on your clothes. When wet clothes sit in the washing machine too long, they can develop a mildew smell and need to be washed again.

DO – Visit Bakers Centre Laundry 

The best way to ensure your wash is done properly and efficiently is to visit Bakers Centre Laundry. Our 24-hour self-serve laundromat is staffed around the clock for assistance from an experienced staff member. In addition, our drop-off laundry service allows you to fully trust your laundry in the hands of experts, with easy and affordable drop-off services with your clothes returned to you cleaned, dried, and folded. Visit Bakers Centre Laundry today and see why we are Philadelphia’s favorite laundromat. 

Doing laundry is a chore that many of us face with dread. Sorting, washing, folding, and hanging up your clothes often seems to take forever. However, with a few clever tricks up your sleeve, you can streamline your laundry routine and save a shocking amount of time. In this blog, we’ll share some laundry tips to help you conquer your mountain of clothes faster than ever. 

Sort Smart

Sorting your laundry may seem like an obvious step, but doing it strategically can make a big difference in the time it takes to complete. Instead of sorting by color or fabric type, consider sorting by soil level. This means separating heavily soiled items from lightly soiled ones. By doing so, you can customize your washing cycles, opting for a shorter and less intensive cycle for quick-clean laundry that doesn’t require deep cleaning. This simple trick can cut down on washing time without compromising cleanliness.

Pre-Treat Stains

Stains are notorious for being time-consuming to remove, but pre-treating them can make a world of difference. Keep a stain-removal spray or a DIY mixture of water and detergent handy. As soon as you notice a stain, spray or dab the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes before tossing it into the washing machine. This pre-treatment helps break down stains, making them easier to remove during the regular wash cycle. By tackling stains promptly, you can save time and avoid the need for multiple washes.

Quick Tip: If you want to avoid having a stain set, do not wash it in hot water, and do not put it in the dryer. Heat will make stains permanent, potentially ruining your clothes.

Optimize Your Washer and Dryer

Your washer and dryer can be your best allies in saving time. Take advantage of the various settings and features they offer. For instance, use the quick wash or express wash cycle for lightly soiled items that require a speedy clean. Many modern dryers also have a quick-dry feature, which utilizes higher heat levels and shorter drying times. Additionally, avoid overloading your machines, as it can lead to longer cycles and poor results. Overloading can leave your clothes dirty and can even end up clogging the machine, leading to expensive repairs. Follow the recommended load sizes to ensure efficient cleaning and drying.

Streamline Folding and Storage

After your laundry is fresh and clean, make the folding and storage process more efficient. Invest in folding boards or templates to create uniform folds quickly. To save even more time, consider sorting clothes as you fold them. Place items directly into separate baskets or hampers for each family member or designate bins for different types of clothing. This way, when you put the laundry away, everything is already organized and ready to go.

Laundry doesn’t have to be a time-consuming and overwhelming task. By incorporating these quick and easy laundry tips into your routine, you can save valuable time while still getting clean, fresh clothes. Remember to sort smart, pre-treat stains right away, use your washer and dryer settings properly and simplify your folding and storage process. With these time-saving techniques, you’ll find yourself tackling laundry so efficiently, you’ll have time to learn even more laundry hacks. 

Go ahead and put these quick-clean laundry tips to the test. Embrace a more efficient laundry routine and reclaim your time. Happy laundering!

Be honest, nobody likes doing laundry. It is a hassle and there are many different steps and things you have to remember so you do not ruin your clothes. Luckily for you, Bakers Centre Laundry does everything we can to make laundry as easy as possible. We offer 24-hour self-serve laundry so that you wash and dry your clothes in a clean and comfortable environment at a time that is convenient for your schedule. Our facility is staffed 24 hours a day to provide you with laundry tips and answer any questions you may have. In addition, we provide 24-hour pick-up and drop-off laundry services, so that we can take care of your laundry needs for you. We will sort, wash, dry, and fold your clothes for you, and then drop them off to you as good as new.

The only problem is, even if we can do your laundry for you if you need to iron anything that is going to still fall on you. While ironing does not seem that difficult, you want to make sure that you are doing it correctly. There are many different techniques and tricks to make sure you are using the correct temperature and ensure your clothes iron is doing the job effectively. While Bakers Centre is not able to be there and help you iron your clothes, our team of experts has compiled a list of some helpful tips on how to iron clothes so that you can do the job correctly and look your best! 

Use The Entire Ironing Board

People often try to iron with clothes hanging over the sides. Use the entire board, placing your clothes landscape on the board. The thinner side is good for getting creases out of areas around the arms.

Use Proper Technique

Did you know there is a proper clothes ironing technique? The most effective way to use long, straight strokes. Avoid wiggling the iron or short choppy strokes as this may cause the fabric to stretch or create new creases. 

Iron Around Decorative Accessories

When ironing your clothes, be sure to avoid zippers and buttons as well as any other decorative pieces such as sequins, glitter, or lace.

Inside Clothes Inside Out

The heat of the iron can cause a sheen on darker clothes sometimes. A simple way to avoid this is by flipping your clothes inside out before ironing them. This will help protect the appearance. 

Remove Iron Marks Using Vinegar

If you ever make an error while ironing, do not freak out. You can quickly fix any scorch stains with a little white vinegar. Just dip a clean cloth and wipe over the stain.

Iron In Correct Order

If you are unsure where to start, remember to go from the outside to the inside. Start with the collar and the sleeves and work your way to the middle.

Use Bobby Pins To Secure Pleats

Pleated items can be difficult to tackle, but next time try and pin the pleats into place using bobby pins. This will allow you to iron your clothes without having to worry about the pleats.

Correctly Position Your Ironing Board

This should be an easy one. Don’t make ironing more difficult than it needs to be. Make sure the ironing board is at a comfortable height for you so you are not bent over. 

Immediately Hang Items After 

Do not let your time ironing go to waste. After ironing your clothes, be sure to hang them right away to prevent your clothes from getting more creases. 

Iron Cotton Clothes While Damp

Cotton creases can be difficult to iron out. When you iron them whilst still damp, the heat will create steam that helps creases fall out easily. 

Bakers Centre Laundry 24-Hour Service

The most important ironing and laundry tip is to never iron dirty clothes. This will cause any stains to set and the heat will make the stain permanent. Be sure to wash your clothes before ironing, and the best place to do that is Bakers Centre Laundry. Our 24-hour self-service and drop-off service allow you to wash and dry your clothes in a clean, safe, and convenient manner. Call us today at 215-227-1454 to learn more!