We know that keeping our clothes in circulation for longer is the best way to lessen their environmental impact. But overwashing is one of the quickest routes to the rag bag eventually leading to weakened fibres.

Your clothes deserve better. So before you bung another mixed clog of clothes let's have a rethink. 

After a spill letting your clothes languish in the bottom of the laundry basket means that the stain is more likely to set in for good. Instead, treat it with a spot wash, dabbing with a wet sponge or a spare toothbrush and a little detergent, stain remover or washing-up liquid. Speed is key – the faster you act, the better your chance of success. You can finish your tacos later.

While it’s true that putting on a full cycle for one dress and a solitary pair of pants is a waste of water and energy, overstuffing doesn’t do your clothes any favours at all. It's important to make room to swish around, they’re more likely to come out of the wash still looking grubby. Instead, always aim for the drum to be at about three-quarters capacity, so that there’s space for the water and detergent to do their job. 

We all know better than to lie out in the midday sun, but your favourite shirt has a free pass. UV light can be a secret weapon in the fight against yellowing collars and underarms, because it breaks down the molecular structure of stains and provides a natural bleaching effect. Treating our clothes better makes us feel better and more confident.