🧺💥 Threw stuff in the machine—thought all was good 🫢 Then clothes ruined, water leaking, machine choking 😳 10 things that break stuff fast, but people still wash them. Check this before it’s too late — more in the article below👇❗️
The washing machine is probably the most important helper in any home. You just put in your clothes, pick a program, press start, and you can sit back with a glass of wine and a magazine while it does all the work.
But how many of us actually read the instruction manual when we buy a new washing machine? Some people still try washing things that really shouldn’t go in there, which can lead to ruined clothes or even damage to the machine.
Take swimwear, for example. Most bras have metal wires inside to support their shape. Even if you put them in a special laundry bag, those wires can come loose during the wash and get stuck inside the machine, causing it to break. Plus, washing delicate lingerie in the machine can make it wear out faster.
Jackets and blazers are another problem. The collars and lapels are held in place with a special glue-based fabric inside. If you put them in the machine and spin them, the glue will break down, and the jacket will lose its shape. It’s better to take outerwear like this to a dry cleaner.
Some people even try to wash leather shoes in the machine. That’s a big mistake. Fabric shoes, like sneakers, can handle machine washing, but leather will get ruined by water and detergent. If your shoes smell bad, it’s better to use a special shoe cleaner instead.
Expensive ties also need gentle care. If you get a stain on one, it’s best to either take it to the dry cleaner or wash it by hand using a mild detergent.
Pillows filled with orthopedic foam should never go in the washing machine. The foam will lose its shape and become useless. The instructions from the manufacturer usually warn about this, but people sometimes forget.
Caps and hats should also be cleaned carefully. If you can’t take them to a dry cleaner, use a soft brush and soapy water. Gently rinse them, and let them dry naturally without twisting or wringing.
Microfiber cloths, which are great for cleaning, should be washed by hand. If you put them in the machine, they lose their softness and stop working as well.
Pet owners know how much fur can get everywhere. If you’re washing something that your dog or cat has been lying on, always remove the fur first. If you don’t, the machine’s filter can get clogged, and water might start leaking.
Clothes with beads, rhinestones, or hand embroidery are risky too. Even on a gentle setting, those decorations can fall off and damage both your clothes and the machine. It’s safer to rinse these items by hand and avoid using the spin cycle.
Work clothes stained with chemicals or flammable substances should be soaked in detergent before putting them in the machine. This prevents the chemicals from damaging your machine or mixing with other laundry.
Taking care of what goes into your washing machine will not only protect your clothes but also keep your helper working smoothly for years.
