There's no doubt that we all love our washing machines: they make life easier and save time. But not everything can be washed in them without consequences. Expert Carolyn Forté, director of the cleaning lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, has provided a list of things we shouldn't put in the washing machine and why.
Here are 9 things you should never put directly in the washing machine:
1. Very dirty clothes
Clothes, towels, or blankets that for one reason or another are covered in mud, sand, or pet hair should not be put directly into the washing machine. Otherwise, not only can the washing machine be damaged, but the clothes will not be cleaned properly. The solution? Shake them out or use a pet hair roller.
2. Memory foam pillows
Memory foam , a type of viscoelastic polyurethane foam found in some mattresses and pillows, provides support for the neck, but washing it in the washing machine can ruin it. Wear these types of pillows with washable covers instead of putting them directly in the washing machine.
3. Heavy blankets
Even those that seem washable may actually be too heavy for your washing machine. Keep in mind that a blanket doubles in weight when wet, so experts advise that the blanket should not exceed 5-6 kilograms when dry.
4. Items labeled “dry clean only”
Always check the labels! Dresses, clothes made of silk, cashmere, leather or clothes with sequins should only be dry cleaned. The washing machine can damage, shrink or fade the colors.
5. Vintage and fragile clothes
Both vintage and modern clothes made of delicate materials (silk, cashmere, lace) require hand washing or dry cleaning. A washing machine can easily ruin them.
6. Things with open zippers
Whether it's jeans, jackets, or sheets, always make sure the zippers are closed. Open zippers can catch on other clothes and ruin them.
7. Things in pockets
Pay attention to your pockets! Coins, keys, or other items left in your pockets can ruin your clothes or damage your washing machine.
8. Skin
Never put leather jackets, pants, or accessories in the washing machine. The leather can crack, peel, or shrink. Hand washing is a safer option.
9. Multi-colored clothes
Colors like red and orange often "bleed" in the washing machine, especially when they're new. To avoid the color from spreading to other items, wash them separately by hand.
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