While washing machines are designed to handle a variety of laundry loads, some items simply aren’t made for the agitation and spin cycles. Experts caution that washing certain things can damage your machine or ruin the item, so it’s best to avoid tossing them in along with your everyday clothes.
- Avoid washing foam pillows and weighted blankets over 15 pounds.
- Vintage, delicate, and 'dry clean only' items require special care.
- Always empty pockets and close zippers before laundry.
What happened
Laundry professionals share important guidelines about which household items should never be placed in a washing machine. Despite modern machines being sturdy, certain items—like foam pillows, weighted blankets, and delicate or vintage fabrics—are too fragile or heavy and risk damage. Items with excess pet hair, sand, or coins can also harm the machine or cause malfunctions.
Additionally, washing items labeled 'dry clean only' or those with unzipped zippers can lead to ruined garments or tears. Experts recommend checking care tags carefully and taking simple precautions like emptying pockets and closing fasteners to avoid unexpected laundry mishaps.
Why it feels good
Taking the time to properly sort and treat your laundry keeps both your clothes and your washing machine in good shape. Avoiding machine washing for delicate or heavy items reduces wear and tear, helping these belongings last longer and stay looking their best.
With the right care, you can save money on replacements and repairs while enjoying cleaner, fresher fabrics. Small steps like shaking off dirt, removing pet hair with a lint roller, or hand-washing delicate pieces offer peace of mind knowing you’re protecting your valued possessions.
What to enjoy or watch next
For those interested in optimizing their laundry routines, explore tips on how to wash weighted blankets safely and how often to clean them. You might also want to learn about common laundry mistakes that can ruin clothes and how to avoid washing items on incorrect settings.
If you encounter clothing with tricky fabric types or embellishments, consider dry cleaning services or hand-washing methods recommended by experts. This knowledge helps you handle special garments like silk, cashmere, or leather so they remain beautiful and intact.