Lava-Matic Laundry

Resist the urge to dump your entire hamper straight into the washer. It may save a little time, but proper sorting protects your clothes, helps machines work better, and keeps your outfits looking their best.

Sort by Color
Separate whites, light colors, and dark colors to prevent color bleeding and fading.

Sort by Fabric Type

• Wash heavy items, such as jeans, separately from delicate fabrics that require a gentle cycle.
• Keep lint-producing fabrics (like towels and chenille) separate from lint-attracting fabrics (such as corduroy and dark leggings).

Sort by Soil Level
Since dirt can transfer during washing, heavily soiled items should be washed separately from lightly worn clothing.

1. Always check clothing care labels for special washing instructions.
2. Separate whites, colors, and darks before washing.
3. Do not overload the machine. Large loads will not wash or dry properly. For best results, load clothes evenly and loosely.
4. For front-load washers, use only ¼ cup of detergent to prevent over-soaping. High-efficiency (HE) liquid detergents are strongly recommended.
5. When using laundry pods in front-load washers, place the pod directly in the drum with your clothes—not in the detergent tray. To help prevent soap residue, use pods with hot water.
6. Unscented liquid fabric softener is recommended and should be used at ¼ of the amount listed on the label.
7. If a front-load washer will not start, make sure the door is fully closed and follow the instructions shown on the machine.
8. Do not use fabric dye in the machines.
9. Front-load washer doors lock during operation and will not open until the cycle is complete. To open the door mid-cycle: press and release the START button until the display reads 01, then press START once more. The machine will drain and unlock within approximately 10 seconds.

1. Clean the dryer lint screen before starting the dryer and again at the end of each cycle.
2. Avoid overloading the dryer. Large or heavy loads may not dry completely.
3. Check pretreated stains before drying. If a stain remains after washing, treat and rewash before placing the item in the dryer—heat can set stains permanently.
4. Need more drying time? Add the required funds and press START to extend the cycle.
5. Do not dry items made of wool, rubber, or plastic.
6. Remove clothes promptly after drying to prevent wrinkles. For best results, hang garments—especially T-shirts—while slightly damp to help release wrinkles. Lightly spritz stubborn wrinkles with water or finishing spray and iron using the correct fabric setting.

Be considerate with machine use
If plenty of washers or dryers are available, it’s fine to use two or three at a time. When machines are limited, please follow the one person, one machine rule.

Check your pockets before washing
Remove items that could damage your clothes or our machines—lipstick, sharp objects, grease, or anything unusual. You are responsible for what goes into the machines and any damage caused.

Unscented is appreciated
When possible, choose unscented detergents and fabric softeners. Strongly scented liquid softeners can leave residue behind. If you prefer fragrance, dryer sheets are a better option.

Don’t leave laundry unattended
Please be ready to move your clothes promptly when the cycle ends. This helps keep machines available and avoids others having to handle your laundry.

Leave your basket nearby
If you step away, place your basket on or near your washer or dryer so others know where to place items if needed.

Clean the lint screen
Help keep our laundry room running smoothly by removing lint from the dryer screen and disposing of it in the trash.

Give others a little time
If someone hasn’t returned right away, please allow up to 15 minutes before moving their laundry. If needed, place items neatly in their basket or on a clean surface—never on the floor.

Leave washer doors open
When finished, leave washer doors open to help prevent mildew, especially on front-load machines.

Cosmetics
Apply a stain remover or a small amount of detergent directly to the stain. Wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric.

Grass
Apply stain remover or detergent and wash as directed. If the stain remains, reapply stain remover, soak in warm water, rinse thoroughly, and rewash.

Food & Beverages
Gently blot excess food or liquid (such as tomato sauce or soda) with cold water. Sprinkle salt over the stain to absorb moisture, then dab with club soda. Pretreat with detergent and wash as directed.

Gum
Harden the gum by rubbing the area with ice. Carefully remove excess gum, then apply stain remover or detergent directly to the area. Wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric.

Coffee & Fruit Juice
Dab the stain with cold water or soak briefly. Apply stain remover or detergent and wash as directed.

Blood
Apply stain remover or detergent directly to the stain and wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric.

Grease
Place the garment stain-side down on a paper towel. Apply dishwashing liquid to the back of the stain and let sit for one minute. Pretreat with laundry detergent and wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric.

Deodorant & Sweat Stains
Apply stain remover or detergent and wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric. For discoloration, treat fresh stains with ammonia and older stains with vinegar, then rinse thoroughly and rewash.

Wax
Harden wax with ice and carefully scrape off excess. Place the fabric between paper towels and press with a warm iron. Apply stain remover or detergent, rinse, and wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric.

Vomit
Scrape off excess material and soak in warm water. Apply stain remover or detergent and wash as directed. Use bleach if appropriate for the fabric.

Ink
Dab the stain with rubbing alcohol using a sponge, or spray with stain remover until the area is wet. Rinse thoroughly and wash as directed.

Mud
Allow mud to dry completely—washing wet mud can worsen the stain. Brush off dried mud, then treat with liquid detergent and gently scrub with a wet brush. Wash on a normal cycle. Do not tumble dry until the stain is fully removed.