Q: Flip the neck of your jacket inside, pull the sleeves into the main body, and turn it inside out. This way, the outer fleece stays protected as you wash it. In addition, ensure there is nothing in the pockets of your jacket before you wash it. If you leave paper in the pockets, your jacket will get covered in lint, which is almost impossible to remove. To keep your fleece soft and water-resistant, purchase mild powdered detergent and review the instructions on the package regarding how much to use. For a small load, use around 5 ounces (141.8 g). Liquid detergent contains chemicals that strip away the waterproof coating on your fleece jacket. Turn your wash temperature to the "cold" setting before you start the load. If you use a warm wash setting, your fabric may start to pill. If you use a hot wash setting, the fabric may melt. Pour your powdered detergent into a small bowl, and add 5-10 drops of water to the bowl. Mix it up with a spoon to liquefy your detergent. This helps prevent cut down on extra soap residue when you wash your jacket. If you place the powdered detergent directly into the washing machine, it may be too concentrated and result in a lot of soap residue. If you notice an odd odor on your jacket, use baking soda along with your detergent to get rid of the smell. Mix about 2-4 tbsp (29.6 - 59.2 g) into your detergent mixture before pouring it into the washing machine. Baking soda is known to absorb unpleasant odors and works great when washing clothing. Press the "Start" button after you add your detergent. Then, come back after your wash cycle is completed. Most machines take 45-60 minutes to wash your clothing. If you are washing your fleece by itself or with a few items, use a light wash cycle. If you are washing a full load of laundry, use a larger wash cycle, based on the options listed on your particular machine. After your clothes are washed, open up your washing machine and pull out your fleece jacket. Place the jacket on a hanger and zip it up. Leave the jacket in a dry place for 1-2 hours so it can air dry. Avoid using the dryer when washing your fleece jacket. Even a light heat cycle can cause your fleece to pill, and the heat can damage your jacket. If you washed other clothing with your fleece, you can put them in the dryer.
A: Turn the jacket inside out before you wash it. Use mild soap powder rather than liquid detergent. Use the lowest temperature setting to avoid damaging your jacket. Mix the mild powder detergent with some water to prevent soap residue. Add baking soda to your detergent mixture if your fleece smells funky. Pour your detergent mixture into the machine and start your wash cycle. Hang the jacket on a hanger and let it air dry.

Q: As people age, bathing may become difficult. This may be due to a fear of falling, difficulty getting in or out of the tub or shower, difficulty washing themselves, or even a result of a cognitive disorder, such as Alzheimer's or dementia. As you start to approach an elderly family member or friend about their hygiene, keep all of these things in mind and aim to be as respectful and tactful as possible. Approaching the situation indirectly will avoid putting too much pressure on your loved one or client. It is important to make them feel comfortable before going about suggesting a change in routine, which for many elderly can be upsetting and difficult. For example, you can begin by asking whether they have enough grooming supplies, and if they respond yes, ask,"Well is that enough soap for your showers and baths this week? How many would you say you take on average?", or if they respond no, "Just to get an idea for when I'm shopping, how many baths or showers a week should we restock you for?" If you find out that they're bathing fewer than two times a week, change your tone of voice from casually inquisitive to concerned. Approach the issue from a medical, rather than a personal, standpoint, stressing the importance of hygiene to overall health. Explain that doctors recommend bathing at least twice a week to prevent infection. Try something like, "You know I've heard on the news / from my doctor that not only should everyone bathe every week, they should bathe at least twice a week for better health. I think we should give this a try." Bringing up body odor might disappoint or anger them, making it more difficult to convince them to change their routine. And since seniors can have a decreased sense of smell, they might not be aware that there is an odor problem. Pointing this out to them could cause anxiety if they're unable to detect the odor and might wonder about it. Depending on their physical condition, bathing or showering may be a source of anxietyundressing, getting in and out of the tub, washing, drying off, and dressing might require more energy than they have. They may be afraid of falling in the tub, have had a bad experience with scalding or icy-cold water, or easily lose track of time. Take note of these for consideration when arranging for help with washing, and improving bathroom safety. To try to understand what anxieties they may have, ask questions such as, "Have you been hurt while using the tub, by falling, or by the temperature of the water?" or "Do you feel really tired after washing?" If fatigue or fear of falling seem to be issues, strongly consider either bathing the person yourself or hiring a caregiver.
A:
Be aware that poor hygiene is not always a choice. Get an idea of the person's general grooming habits. Suggest a change in routine. Avoid mentioning any issues with odor. Ask the person about their concerns and needs regarding bathing.