First, zip up. Open zipper teeth will snag and tear more delicate items in the washer and dryer. Check the pockets for tissues, pens (and money), unbutton shirts and hook bras or use a lingerie bag. Securely tie draw strings to prevent them from slipping inside the garment.  Separate colors from whites and wash new items separately to avoid sharing colors with the whole load. We do these steps for every item – it’s easier to prevent a problem than try to fix it later.