7 things you can wash and 7 things you should NEVER put in the washing machine

by Shirley Marie Bradby

May 22, 2018

7 things you can wash and 7 things you should NEVER put in the washing machine
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Many people see the washing machine as an abominable device capable of creating all kinds of trouble!

This is because the risk that it may damage some garments is high, but this only happens to those who do not know even its most basic functionalities.

We know, for example, that some garments fade and that others shrink at high temperatures. However, even the most expert can have some doubts about certain clothing items. Can it be washed in the washing machine or not?

If you often ask yourself this question, here is a guide that will clarify any uncertainty.

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Let's start with the things that should NEVER be put in the washing machine --- bras.

Let's start with the things that should NEVER be put in the washing machine --- bras.

At least not together with other garments! This is because the material they are made of is very delicate. In addition, the hooks and straps can get stuck to the drum of the washing machine causing the bra to be torn or stretched. Better to put them in a mesh laundry bag or, even better, wash them by hand.

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Coins

Coins

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Do you forget every time to check the pockets before putting pants in the washing machine? If so, then you have unwittingly put coins in the washing machine. The risk associated with this oversight is high because coins can easily fall into the slots inside the washing machine, causing it to break!

Sneakers

Sneakers

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If you intend to wash your pair of professional jogging shoes in the washing machine, do not do it! In fact, these shoes often have washing specifications that exclude centrifugation and high temperatures. Always wash them by hand or at least consult the label first.

Animal hair

Animal hair

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Do you have a dirty garment covered with your dear four-legged friend's hair? Do you think that washing it in the washing machine will make it look like new? Big mistake. Animal air, in fact, in the long run, will end up obstructing the filter and other parts of the washing machine. In addition, the animal hair will stick to all the other clothes ... And anyone who has a furry friend at home knows how hard they are to remove! So, before starting the washing machine, it is advisable to shake and beat the clothes to eliminate all the animal hair that you can.

Small objects

Small objects

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You will probably think that putting your child's booties or little socks in the washing machine is not a big problem. Unfortunately, booties, as well as all the smaller garments, when wet, are reduced to even smaller dimensions and can get stuck in the mechanisms of the washing machine, causing it to break.

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Keys

Keys

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Keys are also among those objects that can easily be forgotten in pockets. In addition to damaging the washing machine itself, the keys can also tear and pierce garment fabrics.

Flammable stains

Flammable stains

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Many people do not know that there are flammable stains that should never ever be washed in the washing machine. Among these, we find gasoline, diesel and any other flammable liquid stains. These flammable substances when in contact with other products can cause chemical reactions and even fires!

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But what is possible to wash in the washing machine? Sneakers, for example.

But what is possible to wash in the washing machine? Sneakers, for example.

Steven Depolo/Flickr

Sneakers aka tennis shoes can be put in the washing machine because they are resistant and the material they are made out of does not undergo changes in the washing machine. You just have to keep in mind the color of the shoes (if they are light colored you should not wash them with dark garments) and enclose the laces in a mesh laundry bag. Also, it is preferable to do a separate washing for shoes, for hygienic reasons!

Yoga mats

Yoga mats

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If you have a large enough washing machine, you can also wash the mats you use for sports. To dry them, just lay them out in the sun for a few hours.

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Sports equipment

Sports equipment

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Not just sports clothing but also some sports equipment. If there are any Velcro parts, unite the two parts to prevent other clothing from sticking to them.

Stuffed toys

Stuffed toys

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Stuffed toys can also be put in the washing machine, indeed they must! In fact,  it would be best that the grime that accumulates on them not come into contact with the mouth of very young children. In any case, always read the label first to make sure that there are no delicate parts that can be damaged by the washing machine.

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Plastic shower curtains

Plastic shower curtains

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Do your shower curtains require deep cleaning? You can do it quickly by putting them in the washing machine! In this way, the water stains will disappear without any effort!

Aluminum foil balls

Aluminum foil balls

Natural Ways/Youtube

Why would someone ever put a ball of aluminum foil in the washing machine? The answer is simple --- it helps eliminate the static energy that accumulates on the fabrics after washing!

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Lego pieces

Lego pieces

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Have you ever thought about washing your children's Lego pieces? In this way, you can give them a deep cleaning and sanitize them effortlessly. Just put them in a mesh laundry bag and start a short wash at a low temperature.

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