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Most people know to check garment labels and separate colors before tossing clothes into the washing machine, but several everyday items can cause serious damage if washed improperly.
These items ruin your clothes and damage your washing machine, leading to costly repairs or a shorter lifespan for your appliance. Here are 12 things that can cause more harm than good to your washing machine.
Rubber Items
Rubber materials can cause serious issues for your washing machine. Many rubber items don’t wash well because machines struggle to properly clean and drain them. Items like Rubber mats, shoes, or cushions can lead to clogs in the filters and pumps. This can interfere with proper drainage and potentially damage your machine. To avoid these problems, it’s best to hand wash rubber items if possible or use an industrial washing machine.
Fabric Softener
Although fabric softeners leave your clothes smelling fresh, they can cause long-term damage to your washing machine. Fabric softener can build up in your washing machine’s pipes and accumulate in the dispenser, leading to clogs over time. Instead, consider using a wool dryer ball in the dryer with a few drops of essential oil for a natural scent.
Too Much Detergent
This might seem unusual but using more detergent than necessary doesn’t always mean “cleaner” clothes. In fact, excess detergent can damage your machine by clogging sensors and preventing proper drainage. It can also leave a musty odor on your clothes and lots of suds in the machine. Opt for mild laundry detergents and use the recommended amounts for best results.
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Pet Hair
Clothes covered in pet hair can be problematic for your washing machine. Pet hair clumps together and can clog the drain pump, straining the washer and your plumbing system. Always shake off excess pet hair before loading clothes into the machine.
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Large Items
Oversized items like comforters, rugs, or blankets can become too heavy when wet, straining the machine’s drum and motor. Due to restricted movement, these items may not clean properly. It’s best to wash them in a commercial-sized machine or take them to a laundromat.
Memory Foam Pillows
Although memory foam pillows are washable, putting them in a washing machine can distort their shape and compromise their support. Like other bulky items, memory foam pillows may not be cleaned thoroughly due to limited movement in a regular machine. For best results, consider washing them in a commercial-sized machine, taking them to a laundromat, or simple hand washing.
Cashmere and Wool Materials
Delicate fabrics like cashmere and wool can become damaged or lose their softness when washed in a machine. To maintain their quality, hand wash these items in cold water or use a mesh bag in the washer on a gentle cycle.
Keys and Jewelry
It happens: You accidentally leave keys or jewelry in your pockets, and they get in the wash. Unfortunately, this mistake can cause significant damage to your washing machine’s drum and internal components. Be sure to check pockets before loading clothes into the washer.
Coins
Like keys, coins can sneak into your washer and cause damage by clogging filters and pumps. Always double-check pockets to avoid these small but costly problems.
Waterproof Items
Though some waterproof items may be labeled as machine-washable, it’s safer to hand wash them. Items like ski pants, waterproof mattress pads, shower curtains or sleeping bags can trap water, leading to imbalances during the spin cycle and potential machine damage.
Open Zippers
Zippers left unzipped can catch on other clothes and scratch the inside of your machine. Always zip up clothes before washing to protect your garments and your washer.
Embellished Items
Clothing with beads, sequins, or lace can be easily damaged in the washer. These delicate materials can get caught in the machine’s mechanisms, so it’s best to hand wash or use a mesh bag to protect them.
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Tamara White
Tamara White is the founder ofThe Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.
