14 things you should never put in your washing machine
When it comes to laundry, the washing machine is often seen as a reliable workhorse in the household, tirelessly cleaning our clothes day in and day out.
However, while it may seem like a universal solution to laundry woes, there are certain items that should never make their way into your washing machine.
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Whether it is the potential damage to your garments or the risk to your appliance, some things just do not belong in the spin cycle.
In this detailed guide, we will explore 14 things you should never put in your washing machine, along with the reasons why and what you should do instead. By following these tips, you will ensure that both your clothes and washing machine stay in top condition for years to come.
1. Bras (especially underwired ones)
When it comes to bras, especially those with underwires, the washing machine is a big no-no.
The agitation can damage the delicate fabric, and the metal underwires can easily bend, poke through the fabric, or even damage the drum of your washing machine in there spinning.
Additionally, heat from the dryer can degrade the elasticity and fabric over time.
Instead, hand-wash your bras in lukewarm water using mild detergent. Put your bra in a mesh laundry bag on a delicate cycle if you must machine wash them.
Always hang them outside to air dry so that they maintain their shape.
2. Delicate fabrics (silk, lace, etc.)
Silk, lace, and other delicate fabrics are particularly prone to damage when exposed to the rough agitation of a washing machine. The delicate fibers can be torn, stretched, or frayed, resulting in irreversible damage to your favorite pieces.
Instead always hand-wash delicate items or use a mesh bag on the gentle cycle.
For lace or silk, cold water is your friend, and air drying is best.
3. Leather goods
Leather shoes, jackets, bags, and other accessories may seem sturdy, but the washing machine's water and agitation can severely damage the leather.
Leather can lose its softness, crack, and discolor when exposed to water or detergent.
Instead: Spot clean leather goods with a damp cloth and leather-specific cleaner. If they need a deeper clean, consult a professional cleaner to avoid damaging the material.
4. Items with zippers or buttons
While it may seem harmless, zippers, buttons, and other hardware can easily get caught in the washing machine. Not only can this cause damage to the clothing, but it can also damage the drum of the machine or other items in the load.
Instead: Always zip zippers and button up clothing items before tossing them into the machine and turn them inside out. Alternatively, place them in a mesh laundry bag for added protection.
5. Shoe insoles
Shoe insoles, especially foam or cushioned ones, should never be put in the washing machine. The agitation and water can ruin the material, and they may not dry properly, potentially leading to mold and odors.
Instead: Spot clean insoles with a damp cloth and air dry them. If they are particularly dirty, check the manufacturer’s instructions for care advice.
6. Rubber items (yoga mats, waterproof jackets)
Rubber, neoprene, and similar materials, like those in yoga mats or waterproof jackets, do not do well in the washing machine. The heat, water, and detergent can damage the material, making it lose its stretch or change its shape.
Instead: Wipe rubber items down with a damp cloth and mild detergent. If the material is particularly dirty, consult the care instructions for specialized cleaning methods.
7. Clothing with heavy stains (without pre-treating)
While a washing machine can handle normal dirt and grime, it is not equipped to tackle heavy stains like oil, grease, or mud without prior treatment. Directly tossing such items into the machine could result in the stain setting deeper into the fabric, making it harder to remove.
Instead: Always remove stains with a stain remover or soak in laundry detergent like Jik, before washing.
8. Feathers (pillows, comforters, jackets)
Feathers and down filling in pillows, jackets, or comforters may seem durable, but the washing machine’s spin cycle can damage them, causing the filling to clump, lose its loft, or even puncture the fabric.
Instead: Always read care labels for cleaning instructions. Most down or feather-filled items should be dry cleaned or washed in cold water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent, then air dried.
9. Heavy bedding (duvets, blankets)
While heavy bedding like duvets, comforters, and thick blankets can be machine-washed, overloading the washing machine with large items can cause the washer to become unbalanced. This may damage the appliance or leave the bedding insufficiently cleaned.
Instead: Wash large bedding items separately or in smaller loads to make sure they’re cleaned properly and always check your washing machine's weight limit to avoid overloading.
10. Rubber-backed rugs or mats
Rubber-backed rugs or bath mats can deteriorate in the washing machine, especially if exposed to high heat. The rubber backing can peel off or break down over time, rendering the mat unusable.
Instead: Wash them by hand or vacuum clean them.
11. Items with glitter or sequins
Sparkly, glittery, and sequined clothes look great, but they do not do well in the wash. The decorations can fall off, making a mess in the washer, and the glitter can spread everywhere, to other clothes.
Instead: hand-wash delicate embellished items or use a mesh bag and wash them on the gentlest cycle possible.
12. Candles or wax-stained items
Candles, wax stains, or anything with leftover wax can cause a nightmare in your washing machine because wax can melt, transfer to other clothing, and leave a sticky residue.
Instead: For wax-stained items, freeze them first to harden the wax, then scrape off the excess before washing.
13. Pet hair-covered items
Pet hair can get trapped in your washing machine, clogging the drain filter and creating a mess. While a little pet hair may seem harmless, it can add up quickly.
Instead: Use a lint roller or brush to remove excess hair from pet clothing or blankets before washing.
14. Coins and small objects
It is all too easy to forget small items like coins, keys, or tissues in your pockets before tossing them into the washer, but these small objects can damage your clothes, the washing machine’s drum, and other laundry items.
Instead: Inspect your clothes and washing machine before you start your cleaning cycle.
By following these tips and taking a little extra care with your laundry, you will extend the lifespan of both your clothes and your machine.
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