Washing machines are a godsend in our modern, busy lives, making laundry convenient and efficient. However, it’s important to remember that not all items can be safely washed in these appliances. Knowing what can and cannot go in a washing machine is key to extending the life of both your machine and the items you are washing.
Many items can be cleaned in a washing machine, from everyday clothes to larger household items like doonas, pillows, and blankets, depending on the capacity of your machine. However, there are some things that should never go in a washing machine, such as loose bras or coins, as they can cause damage to both the machine and other belongings. By understanding the guidelines for what should and shouldn’t be washed in a washing machine, you can avoid potential disasters and get the best results from your appliance.
Things That Can Go in a Washing Machine
Clothes and Laundry Essentials
We all know that our clothes and laundry essentials are the primary items to go into the washing machine. Regular clothes made of cotton, polyester, and other machine-washable fabrics can be easily washed in a washing machine with appropriate laundry detergent. Items such as bed sheets, pillowcases, and towels are also common items we put inside the washer.
Machine-Washable Fabrics
When it comes to machine-washable fabrics, there are many types of clothing and items that can be safely washed. For instance, synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and spandex are perfect for machine washing. Delicate fabrics such as silk and wool can also be washed in a washing machine on a gentle cycle, using a detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics.
Footwear and Accessories
Certain footwear and accessories can also be cleaned in the washing machine. Canvas sneakers, for example, can be safely washed inside the washer. Just make sure to remove the laces and any removable insoles, then place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag to prevent damage to the shoes or the machine. Some accessories like baseball caps, reusable grocery bags made of cloth, and makeup sponges can also be cleaned in the washing machine.
Household Items and Miscellaneous
Many household items can be cleaned in a washing machine as well, such as stuffed animals, ensuring they are placed in a mesh laundry bag on a gentle cycle. Other household items that can be washed include pillows, blankets, and rugs, depending on the capacity of your washing machine. Some cleaning tools, like bath sponges and kitchen sponges, can also be cleaned inside the washer.
By knowing what items we can safely toss in the washing machine, we can save time and effort while keeping our belongings fresh and clean.
Things That Cannot Go in a Washing Machine
Delicate and Non-Washable Fabrics
There are several types of fabrics that should not be put in the washing machine, as they may get damaged or lose their original quality. Some of these include leather, silk, cashmere, velvet, suede, and lace. In our experience, it’s best to hand-wash these types of materials or take them to the dry cleaners. Delicate items such as bras and swimwear could also benefit from hand-washing. As for suits, they generally require special care, so we recommend taking them to a professional dry cleaner as well.
Hazardous Materials and Stains
Certain stains and materials are not suitable for washing machines and can actually cause damage or even pose a safety hazard. For example, clothes that have absorbed flammable substances like gasoline, alcohol, or cooking oil may start a fire inside the appliance and should be avoided. In fact, anything that has been heavily soiled with these substances should be properly cleaned or disposed of to prevent potential harm.
Electronics and Personal Items
We’ve all had that moment where we find a forgotten item in our pockets just as the wash cycle begins – but electronics and personal items should never be left in clothing when using a washing machine. Items such as phones, keys, and wallets can easily be damaged during the washing process and could potentially harm your washing machine as well, causing expensive repairs or replacements. Make sure to always double-check your pockets and zippers before starting a wash cycle.
Unsuitable Footwear and Accessories
Certain footwear and accessories might not be suitable for machine washing. For example, suede and leather shoes should be carefully cleaned by hand or taken to a professional cleaner. Additionally, delicate or embellished handbags and purses should be spot cleaned or brought to a professional, who has knowledge of and experience in handling such articles. When dealing with rugs, it is essential to consult the care label to determine if machine washing is appropriate – if not, alternatives such as professional cleaning or spot-cleaning may be necessary.
In conclusion, always be mindful of the items you place in your washing machine, and remember that there are some things that simply cannot be washed using this method. Keeping these guidelines in mind will help ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your appliance while maintaining the quality and appearance of your belongings.
Care and Maintenance of Unwashed Items
Hand Washing Methods
When dealing with delicate or special items, such as wool, ties, and embellished clothing, hand washing can be the most effective and gentle method to clean them. Here’s our recommended hand washing method:
- Fill a basin with lukewarm water, add a mild detergent, and mix gently.
- Soak the item for a few minutes, then gently agitate by hand.
- Rinse thoroughly with cold water, ensuring all soap is removed.
- Use a clean towel to press out excess water without wringing or stretching the material.
- Lay the item flat on a drying rack or clean surface and allow it to air dry.
Alternatives to Washing
In some cases, washing might not be the best option for specific items. For instance, memory foam pillows, clothes with gasoline, cooking oil or alcohol stains, and items with excessive pet hair or lint can be challenging to wash using traditional methods. In these cases, we suggest the following alternatives:
- Spot cleaning: Use a cloth or sponge along with a stain remover to treat the affected area on items like pillows or clothes with cooking oil stains.
- Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove pet hair and lint from items before attempting to wash them.
- Dry cleaning: For clothing with gasoline or alcohol stains, ties, and some delicate materials, taking them to a professional dry cleaner is the safest option to prevent damage.
Preventing Damages and Shrinkage
Preventing damages and shrinkage requires careful attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your items remain in great condition:
- Always check care labels for specific washing instructions and temperature recommendations.
- Avoid putting items with rubber or underwire components in the washing machine, as they can get damaged or cause damage to the machine.
- When washing delicate items, place them in a mesh laundry bag and use a gentle or delicate cycle.
- For items made of wool or that are prone to shrinking, use a gentle cycle with cold water.
- To avoid high-temperature damage or stretching, opt for air drying rather than tumble drying when possible, particularly for items like wool or delicate dresses.
By following these guidelines, we can ensure the proper care and maintenance of our unwashed items, prolonging their lifespan and keeping them in optimal condition.
Additional Tips and Tricks
Precautions and Considerations
When it comes to washing your laundry, it’s essential to be aware of certain precautions and considerations. For instance, always check your garments for residue, such as loose change or flammable stains, and treat them with a solvent-based stain remover before washing. And don’t forget to lint roll knit hats and other items that tend to collect fuzz. Furthermore, delicate items like lingerie should always be placed in a laundry bag to prevent damage.
Maximizing Washer Capacity and Efficiency
To ensure our washing machines work to their full potential, it’s important to balance laundry loads properly. This means not overloading the washer, as it can lead to poor cleaning results and even damage to the appliance. Additionally, using cold water for washing can save on utility bills and is suitable for many types of fabrics.
Unconventional Items to Wash
You might be surprised to learn that there are quite a few unconventional items that can be safely washed in a washing machine. For example, things like shower curtains, raincoats, and even some stuffed toys can be cleaned in the washer. Just be sure to check the care labels on these items and wash them separately from your regular laundry loads.
Managing Loose and Stuck Items
Loose and stuck items can cause havoc in a washing machine, so it’s crucial to address these problems before they damage your appliance or laundry. Always empty pockets and check for items like car keys that could get caught in the machine. If you find a knit hat or other item stuck to the washer drum, carefully remove it to prevent further damage. Remember, even simple steps like these can keep your washing machine running smoothly and efficiently.
By following these additional tips and tricks, we can ensure that our laundry is always fresh, clean, and in the best condition possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash mats in the washing machine?
Yes, certain types of mats can be washed in a washing machine. However, it’s important to check the care label for specific instructions. Some mats may be too large or have a rubber backing that could cause damage to the appliance. Make sure to clean your mats separately from other items to prevent damage and use the appropriate settings on the machine.
What items can ruin a washing machine?
Some items can potentially cause damage to a washing machine, including sharp objects like metal zippers, coins, or keys. Additionally, heavy or bulky items, such as large comforters, can cause the machine to become unbalanced and lead to further damage. To avoid ruining your washing machine, it is advised to remove all sharp and hard objects from clothes and pockets before loading.
What fabrics should not be washed?
Some fabrics should not be machine-washed, as they can be damaged or ruined. This includes delicate fabrics such as silk, cashmere, and lace. It’s essential to check the care label for specific cleaning instructions and, if necessary, opt for hand-washing or professional cleaning.
Can I wash rags in the washing machine?
Yes, you can wash rags in the washing machine. However, it’s crucial to separate soiled rags from other clothes and fabrics, as mentioned in Kitchn’s article. Washing rags requires the appropriate temperature, cycle, and detergent to ensure thorough cleaning and avoid cross-contamination.
What can’t be washed together?
To prevent color bleeding or damage, avoid mixing dark and light-colored clothing. Additionally, separate delicate fabrics from rougher ones to prevent the delicate items from becoming damaged. Washing clothes with similar fabrics and colors together helps maintain the quality and integrity of your garments.
Can metal items go in the washing machine?
While small metallic items such as zippers and buttons are generally safe in a washing machine, it’s crucial to avoid placing large metal items like pots or tools in the machine. These items can damage the washing machine’s drum or disrupt the machine’s balance, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Always be cautious and check the care label of your clothing before washing to ensure your items are suitable for machine washing.