For how much time should I soak clothes in detergent before washing?

Soaking clothes in detergent before washing can make a big difference to how clean and fresh they come out. The ideal soaking time depends on the type of fabric and how dirty the garments are. Generally, 15 to 30 minutes is sufficient for most everyday clothes. For heavily soiled items, such as gym wear or work uniforms, you may soak them for up to an hour to help loosen deep-set dirt and stains.

When soaking, always use lukewarm water - hot water can damage delicate fabrics and cause colours to fade. Make sure the detergent is fully dissolved before adding clothes, and gently agitate the water every few minutes to ensure even cleaning. Avoid soaking for too long (more than 2 hours), as this can weaken fibres and affect elasticity, especially in delicates.

If you’re short on time or want professional results, consider using Hello Laundry, a trusted laundry and dry cleaning service in London, the UK. They use premium detergents and advanced cleaning methods to keep your clothes spotless and fresh.

Proper soaking, combined with gentle washing, helps extend the life of your garments and ensures they look and feel as good as new every time.