Laundry and Maintenance
What this domain tests
Laundry and maintenance covers the practical process: sorting, stain removal, washing, rinsing, drying, ironing, storage and repair. The exam tests sequence and stain-specific treatment.
Core rules
- Sort by colour, fabric type, degree of soil and care label. Empty pockets, close zips, turn garments inside out, and check for loose buttons.
- Treat stains promptly: blot, scrape or flush; do not rub. Protein stains (blood, egg, milk) use cold water and enzyme detergent; oily stains use absorbent powder or grease solvent; tannin stains (tea, coffee) may need oxygen bleach.
- Use the correct dose of detergent; too much leaves residue. Rinse thoroughly. Dry in shade for colour, flat for knits, on a line for sturdy fabrics.
- Maintain: repair seams and buttons promptly, store clean and dry, use moth protection for wool, and air garments between wears.
Worked example
A cotton shirt has a fresh cooking-oil stain. Reason: oil is hydrophobic, so water alone will not remove it. Blot excess, sprinkle absorbent powder, then apply a grease solvent or concentrated detergent and wash at the label temperature. Check before drying-heat can set the stain. The reasoning matches stain chemistry to treatment.
Traps
Do not use hot water on blood or egg; heat sets protein. Do not rub stains-it spreads them and damages fibres. Do not mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or acid cleaners. Do not dry a stained garment before checking.