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

• British expert Alex Econs revealed how to keep uniforms smelling clean
• Read More: Furious parents compare primary school to ‘North Korean prison’

From ink spills to grass stains, it can feel like school uniforms need washing every day to stay looking smart.

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 garment printing company ICON Printing, explained there are a number of different methods to give clothing a quick spruce up without having to run the washing machine.

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

Here he tells FEMAIL five hacks for keeping uniforms fresh without actually having to pop them in the washing machine.

Alex Econs, founder of garment printing company ICON Printing, revealed how parents can save time and money when it comes to keeping uniforms clean this school year (stock image) 

1. Spot clean grass and ink stains with household items

Instead of adding items with small stains to the laundry pile, Alex revealed it’s more cost-effective to spot clean items.

Alex said: ‘The majority of school uniform stains 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 as vinegar is less toxic than bleach, it’s more eco-friendly too. 

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

‘Apply this directly to stains, lightly brushing it into any affected areas before rinsing with cold water.’

‘For ink stains, hairspray can do the trick. Spray a small amount directly onto the stain, let it sit for a minute, and then wipe with a clean cloth to watch the stain disappear.’

2. Baking soda scrub

Sometimes it can feel like the only solution for a tough stain is the washing machine.

But Alex suggested a lower-cost alternative using a cupboard staple.

He said: ‘For tougher stains, mix baking soda with a small amount of water until you have 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 with cold water.’

3. Absorb odours overnight

If your children’s polo shirts, t-shirts and sweatshirts are starting to smell a bit less than fresh but don’t yet require a wash, you can instead use baking soda to absorb odours overnight.

Alex revealed: ‘Baking soda is a natural deodoriser and can help to eliminate unwanted smells from clothing. 

‘Fill a small pouch of baking soda (or even leave out an open box) near the uniform overnight for a natural refresh.’

4. Deoderise with a homemade spray

Odours naturally cling to school uniforms but some items like sweatshirts, hoodies, fleeces and jackets require less frequent cleaning. 

A quick homemade spray with essential oils 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 odours from clothing – especially if you’re short on time on school mornings. Simply shake well and lightly mist onto garments.

‘Not only does this leave an immediate fresh scent, but as essential oils have natural antibacterial properties this simple homemade spray can even inhibit the growth of odour-causing bacteria, meaning the uniform stays fresher for longer.’

5. Get steamy

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

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

‘Simply hang uniforms up in the bathroom when you shower to allow the fibres to soften and creases to relax without having to iron them.

‘Hang the clothes as close to the shower as you can without getting them wet and ensure that the bathroom door is closed and your extractor fan is off – you don’t want to remove all of that steam. 

‘When you’re finished with your shower, try to keep items in the bathroom for fifteen minutes before allowing them to dry.’

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