Managing Sweat and Odor
When temperatures regularly exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit, sweat management becomes a daily laundry challenge. The combination of heavy perspiration and Arizona mineral-rich tap water can cause yellowing on white fabrics and persistent odor even after washing. To combat this, pre-soak heavily sweated garments in a solution of cool water and oxygen-based bleach for 30 minutes before washing.
For workout clothes and moisture-wicking athletic wear, add half a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle. Vinegar neutralizes the bacteria that cause odor without damaging synthetic performance fabrics. Avoid fabric softener on athletic wear, as it clogs the moisture-wicking fibers and traps odor.
Preventing Sun Fading
Arizona averages over 300 sunny days per year, and the intense UV radiation can fade clothing quickly. If you hang clothes to dry outdoors, turn dark and colored garments inside out to protect the visible surface. Better yet, dry colored items in a shaded area or indoors. Direct Arizona sun can noticeably fade a dark garment in just a few hours.
- Turn dark garments inside out before hanging to dry
- Dry colored items in shade or indoors
- Use a UV-protective spray on outdoor cushion covers and patio fabrics
- Store off-season clothing away from windows
Air Drying in Arizona Heat
The upside of Arizona heat is that air drying is incredibly efficient. With humidity levels often below 20 percent, clothes dry rapidly on an outdoor line or indoor drying rack. Sheets and towels can dry in under an hour during summer. Take advantage of this natural resource to reduce dryer wear and energy costs, but bring items in promptly to avoid over-drying and stiffness.
How Heat Damages Fabrics
Extreme heat does not just affect drying. Clothes left in a hot car can experience temperatures exceeding 170 degrees, enough to damage elastic, melt synthetic fibers, and warp plastic components like buttons and clips. Always take dry cleaning and laundry out of your car immediately. Store your wardrobe in climate-controlled spaces.
Optimal Summer Laundry Schedule
During peak summer heat, we recommend increasing your laundry frequency for items like bedding and towels, which absorb more sweat. Wash bed sheets weekly instead of biweekly. Replace bath towels every two to three uses rather than the usual three to four. If that is more washing than you want to run yourself, you can book a pickup as often as the season calls for. Every pickup is booked when you need one, so there is nothing to cancel when the weather turns.