I’m a laundry expert and here are five ways to keep school uniforms fresh without using the washing machine

From spilled ink to grass stains, it can seem like school uniforms need to be washed every day to stay looking their best.

But now an expert has revealed how parents can save time and money when it comes to keeping uniforms clean this school year.

Alex Econs, founder of clothing printing company ICON Printing, explained that there are a number of different methods to quickly refresh clothes without having to turn on the washing machine.

And he revealed there are a number of different household items you can use to remove even the toughest stains…

Here he tells FEMAIL five hacks to keep uniforms fresh without actually putting them in the washing machine.

1. Locate clean grass and ink stains with household items

Instead of adding items of clothing with small stains to the laundry pile, Alex revealed that it is more cost-effective to track down clean items.

Alex said: ‘Most stains on school uniforms can be easily tackled with common household items, especially stains on white t-shirts and school shirts.’

‘For grass and mud stains, try a natural vinegar-based solution. Not only is this method gentle on the garment, but because vinegar is less toxic than bleach, it is also more environmentally friendly.

‘To make the solution at home, mix 1/2 teaspoon of washing powder with 1/4 cup of white vinegar and 1/4 cup of cold water.

‘Apply this directly to the stains and lightly brush into the affected areas before rinsing with cold water.’

‘Hairspray can be a solution for ink stains. Spray a small amount directly onto the stain, let it sit for a minute, then wipe it off with a clean cloth to watch the stain disappear.’

2. Baking soda scrub

Sometimes it can seem like the washing machine is the only solution for a stubborn stain.

But Alex suggested a cheaper alternative using a cabinet staple.

He said: ‘For tougher stains, mix baking soda with a small amount of water until you get a thick paste-like consistency.

‘Use an old toothbrush or cloth to gently work this into the stain. Let the paste sit for half an hour before rinsing it off with cold water.’

3. Absorbs odors overnight

If your kids’ polo shirts, T-shirts, and sweatshirts are starting to smell a little less fresh but don’t need to be washed yet, you can use baking soda instead to absorb the odors overnight.

Alex revealed: ‘Baking soda is a natural deodorant and can help remove unwanted odors from clothes.

“Fill a small bag of baking soda (or even leave an open box) near the uniform for natural refreshment.”

4. Deodorize with a homemade spray

Odors naturally linger in school uniforms, but some items, such as sweatshirts, hoodies, fleeces and jackets, require less frequent cleaning.

A quick homemade essential oil spray is the best way to keep them feeling and smelling fresh.

Alex advised: ‘Adding a few drops of essential oil to a spray bottle of water is the easiest way to banish odors from clothes, especially if you’re short on time on a school morning. Simply shake well and spray lightly onto clothing.

‘Not only does this leave an instantly fresh scent, but because essential oils have natural antibacterial properties, this simple homemade spray can even inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria, keeping the uniform fresher for longer.’

5. Get steamy

Did you know that your morning shower routine is a brilliant way to straighten out your clothes?

Alex said: ‘The ultimate multitasking and money-saving hack is to take your laundry into the bathroom while you shower.

‘Just hang uniforms in the bathroom when you shower so the fibers soften and wrinkles relax without having to iron them.

‘Hang the clothes as close to the shower as possible without getting them wet and make sure the bathroom door is closed and the extractor hood is off – you don’t want to remove all that steam.

“When you’re done showering, try leaving things in the bathroom for 15 minutes before letting them dry.”