• Getting laundry clean and bright shouldn't be a daunting task.laundry image by samantha grandy from Fotolia.com
  
  The smell of clean laundry fresh out of the dryer or off the line is great, but getting to that point can often be a bit of a hassle. Stains, as well as the amount of laundry that often has to be dealt with, can seem daunting. However, there are ways to get your laundry cleaner and brighter without spending more money.
  
  

Vinegar

• Vinegar is one of the best ways to make any load of laundry brighter. Add one cup of white vinegar to your rinse cycle. This will help break down soap residues and keep your clothes from appearing dingy. Do not, however, put vinegar in the wash if you have also used bleach.
  
  

Read the Label

• Read the labels. This is an important step. If your clothing should not be dried in the dryer, or washed in warm water, then this is important information. Following the label instructions is going to keep your laundry cleaner and make your clothes last longer.
  
  

Separate

• Even though it seems like an extra, unnecessary step, separating your laundry is an important tip for keeping your clothes and linens their cleanest. Separating colors from whites will keep your whites from staining. Separating towels and jeans from lighter clothing will keep those t-shirts and socks from getting shredded by heavier items.
  
  

Pre-Treat Stains

• Pre-treating stains on laundry is the best way to get rid of them before you put the items in the washing machine. Find out what type of stain it is and figure out the best way to remove it. If you do not want the hassle of looking for the right solvent for the stain, purchase a commercial stain stick or spray that is good for most stains, or just rub some laundry detergent on the stain before washing.
  
  

Dry Out

• Drying your laundry outside in the sun is the best way to naturally bleach whites, sterilize your clothes and save money, all at the same time. Yes, they are a little stiff when you take them down, but they usually soften quickly after being worn for an hour or so. You can also hang them in the bathroom with you while you shower; they will soften from the steam (but not get wet).