Slovak experts warn against common laundry mistakes

Ann Russell, known as “That English Cleaner Lady” and followed by millions on TikTok, advises Slovak consumers to sort garments not only by colour or material but also by how dirty they are. She cautions against washing vintage jackets, embroidered dresses, leather, fur or knitted sweaters in a standard wash, recommending professional cleaning for delicate items, short cycles for lightly soiled clothes, and cold water for animal‑hair fabrics.

A separate piece explains that black tea is sometimes suggested to revive the colour of faded black shirts, but it only imparts a beige‑to‑brown tint on natural fibres and does not restore original dye or repair damaged threads. The method may leave residues in the machine and works poorly on synthetics, so it should be tried only on old, plain cotton garments and preferably in a separate container.

Both articles stress that inappropriate washing cycles, high temperatures, harsh detergents and over‑washing can shrink, fade, or damage clothing, and they encourage using gentle programs and, when in doubt, seeking professional cleaning.