While washing machines are versatile appliances, there are certain items that should never be put in them due to the risk of damage to the machine, the items themselves, or both.
Here are some things you should avoid putting in the washing machine:
Anything with sharp objects
Items with sharp or protruding objects, such as metal fasteners or pins, can damage the washing machine drum. Remove or secure these items before washing.
Leather
Leather and suede are porous materials that can absorb water. Excessive moisture can lead to the loss of natural oils in the leather, causing it to become stiff, warped, or cracked. Additionally, washing machines spin clothing during the washing and rinsing cycles and leather and suede items may lose their shape.
Avoid putting leather jackets, suede shoes, or any other leather items in the washing machine.
Dry clean only items
Items labelled as “dry clean only” require special care and it’s important to follow the care instructions to avoid damaging the items. Dry cleaning involves a process that uses solvents instead of water, making it suitable for delicate fabrics that may not withstand traditional washing.
Pet bedding with excessive hair
If pet bedding has a significant amount of hair or loose fibres, it’s best to shake or vacuum off excess hair before washing. Excessive hair can clog the washing machine’s drain.
Place items with a significant amount of pet hair, such as pet bedding or blankets, in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. This helps contain the hair and prevents it from clogging the washing machine’s drain or ending up on other clothes.
Clothing with zippers or hooks
Clothing with delicate details like zippers, hooks, or buttons may snag on other items in the wash. It’s best to place these items in a mesh bag to protect them.
Heavy blankets
Heavy blankets can create unbalanced loads within the washing machine. When the load is unbalanced, the drum may spin unevenly, causing the washing machine to vibrate excessively. This vibration can lead to wear and tear on the machine’s components and potentially result in damage.
Memory foam pillows
Memory foam pillows are not recommended for traditional washing machines, and attempting to wash them in a standard machine can potentially lead to damage.
The weight and bulkiness of a memory foam pillow, combined with its ability to absorb water, can strain the washing machine’s motor and suspension system. Additionally, the spinning cycle may be disrupted by the uneven weight distribution of the wet pillow.
Delicate fabrics
Items made of delicate fabrics such as silk, lace, or wool may be damaged in the washing machine. Handwashing is often recommended for these materials.
