While washing machines are incredibly convenient, not all items are suitable for machine washing. Some fabrics, materials, or items can be damaged by the agitation, heat, or detergents used in the wash. Here are 12 things you should never wash in the washing machine to protect both the items and your machine:......CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>>>
1. Delicate Fabrics: Materials like silk, lace, and wool can easily be damaged by the agitation of the washing machine. These fabrics should be hand-washed or dry-cleaned to preserve their texture and integrity.
2. Bras: The straps and hooks of bras can get tangled or damaged in the washing machine. It’s best to hand-wash them or place them in a lingerie bag if machine washing is necessary.
3. Leather Goods: Leather items, like jackets, shoes, and bags, can be severely damaged by water and detergent. Leather requires special care, like spot cleaning or professional cleaning.
4. Items with Zippers: Zippers can get caught in the washing machine drum or damage other clothes. Always zip up items like jackets or pants before washing, or place them in a bag.
5. Stuffed Animals and Plush Toys: Unless labeled as machine washable, stuffed animals can lose their shape, get damaged, or accumulate dirt that is hard to remove. Hand washing is often a safer option.
6. Rubber-Backed Rugs: The rubber backing can break down or peel away in the wash, damaging both the rug and the machine.
7. Shoes: Washing shoes, particularly ones with glue or leather parts, can ruin their structure and appearance. Instead, spot clean or wash by hand.
8. Down Jackets and Comforters: While these items can be washed, they require specific cycles and detergents to prevent the down filling from clumping. Regular washing machines can be too harsh.
9. Suits or Blazers: Dry cleaning is recommended for most suits and blazers to preserve their shape, fabric, and quality. Machine washing can distort their fit and damage delicate fabric.
10. Items with Sequins or Beads: Clothes adorned with beads, sequins, or other embellishments can become damaged or lose decoration in the wash. Hand washing or dry cleaning is often a better choice.
11. Heavy Bedding (Like Heavy Quilts): Heavy quilts or comforters can cause the washing machine to become unbalanced or cause internal damage. Check the machine’s load capacity and use a laundromat with larger machines if necessary.
12. Sleeping Bags: While some sleeping bags are machine washable, many are not designed to withstand the agitation and heat of a washing machine, which can damage insulation and waterproofing.
In general, it’s important to read care labels and consider the material and structure of each item before washing it in a machine. Taking care of delicate items properly can prolong their lifespan and maintain their quality.
