CLOTHING CARE TIPS FROM COLLEEN BURNS, "MOM ON THE RUN"

Listen to Your Clothes:

• 97% of garment labels read "Do Not Bleach" or similar. Heed manufacturer's recommendations and use a color-safe bleach-alternative like the new Spray 'n Wash® Bright & White to avoid embarrassing bleach accidents.

• Chances are high that you can't bleach your favorite whites! Simply because a shirt is white does not mean it is compatible with chlorine bleach. In fact, nearly all white garment labels (98%) recommend against it.

Simplifying the Laundry:

• Eliminate the worry of accidental bleach damage and reduce the clutter in your cabinets. Stick with your favorite detergent and a stain remover that works on both colors and whites and is appropriate for every situation, from daily use to the toughest stain. For example, Spray 'n Wash Bright & White removes stains and brightens colors while delivering incredible whitening benefits.

• Give children a hamper with sections so they can separate light and dark colors before clothes make their way to the laundry room.

• Put each child's dirty socks in a zippered mesh bag and wash them in the bag. Each bundle gets delivered to the appropriate child's room, they can match them up themselves, and you don't lose "mates." Reduce even more time by washing white and colored socks in the same load, getting out worn-in dirt by using detergent and a color-safe bleach alternative.

Clothing Habits for Life:

• Don't assume low prices equal poor clothing quality. Buy name brand clothing off-season to save big - a better quality garment will survive years of wear and proper wash. This is especially true with children's clothes.

• Believe in hand-me-downs and frequent garage sales. What doesn't fit a neighbor's child might fit yours.

• Teach children to care for their belongings at an early age: they should hang up their coats, fold clothing and put mittens and socks away as soon as they're taken off. Label everything with a last name. In a big family, money spent replacing items that are lost or ruined adds up quickly!