Washing clothes manually can be done using the following steps:
Sorting: Sort your clothes based on color, fabric type, and level of dirtiness. Separate whites, light colors, and dark colors to prevent color bleeding. Additionally, separate delicate fabrics or items that require special care.
Pre-treating stains: Check your clothes for any stains and pre-treat them before washing. Apply a small amount of stain remover or detergent directly to the stained area and gently rub it in. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before proceeding to the next step.
Filling the basin or sink: Fill a basin or sink with water at a suitable temperature for your clothes. Read the garment labels to determine the appropriate water temperature. Hot water is generally used for whites, while cold water is suitable for colors and delicates.
Adding detergent: Add a suitable amount of laundry detergent to the water according to the instructions on the detergent packaging. Swirl the water gently to ensure the detergent is evenly distributed.
Washing: Submerge the clothes in the water and agitate them by gently squeezing, swirling, or rubbing the fabric together. Pay extra attention to heavily soiled areas or stained spots. Be careful not to be too rough, especially with delicate fabrics.
Soaking: For clothes with stubborn stains or odors, you can let them soak in the soapy water for 15-30 minutes to allow the detergent to work on loosening dirt and grime.
Rinsing: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin or sink with clean water. Submerge the clothes and agitate them to rinse off the soap thoroughly. Repeat this rinsing process until the water runs clear, indicating that all detergent has been removed.
Removing excess water: Gently squeeze out the excess water from each garment. Avoid twisting or wringing the clothes, as it can stretch or damage the fabric.
Drying: Hang the clothes to dry on a clothesline or drying rack. Smooth out any wrinkles and reshape the garments if necessary. Avoid direct sunlight for colored clothes, as it can cause fading. Delicate items may need to be laid flat to dry.
Ironing or folding: Once the clothes are dry, iron or steam them to remove wrinkles if needed. Alternatively, fold them neatly and store them in your wardrobe or drawers.
Remember to always check the care labels on your clothes for specific instructions, as different fabrics and garments may require special care or have restrictions on washing methods.