13 Things You Should Never Actually Wash In The Washing Machine

Washing machines are a modern-day miracle, making laundry day a breeze. But despite their convenience, not everything you own should take a spin. Some items demand a more delicate touch, and tossing them into the machine can lead to disaster. Here are 13 things you’re better off washing by hand or sending to the professionals.

1. Leather Jackets

Leather jackets may be stylish and durable, but they’re not built for the rough-and-tumble of a washing machine. The agitation and water can warp the leather, leading to cracks, stiffness, or even shrinking. According to leather expert Emma Nash from the Leather and Hide Council, “Protecting a leather jacket requires gentle care and specialized cleaning products.” The best way to clean leather is by using a damp cloth and a special leather conditioner. For serious stains, it’s wise to consult a professional cleaner who specializes in leather garments.

Machine washing can also strip leather of its natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to damage. Even if the care label seems ambiguous, err on the side of caution. A tumble in the dryer will only exacerbate the damage, potentially turning a prized possession into an unwearable relic. Hang your jacket away from direct heat to preserve its texture and shape, and invest in occasional professional cleaning to ensure it lasts for years to come.

2. Delicate Lingerie

Lingerie is often crafted from delicate fabrics like lace and silk, which can easily be damaged in a washing machine. The spinning and tumbling can cause fraying, tearing, or even complete disintegration of these fragile materials. Hand washing is the best method to maintain the integrity and longevity of your lingerie. By using a gentle detergent and cold water, you can keep your delicate pieces looking as good as new. Dry your lingerie flat or hang it carefully, avoiding any twisting or wringing that could distort the fabric.

Additionally, lingerie often includes intricate details like embroidery, which can become tangled or snagged in a washing machine. Hooks and underwires in bras can catch on other garments or break, ruining both the lingerie and whatever else is in the load. For those who are short on time, a lingerie wash bag can offer some protection, but it’s still not as safe as hand washing. Treat your lingerie with the care it deserves, and it will reward you with comfort and style. It’s an investment in both your wardrobe and your self-esteem.

3. Suede Shoes

Suede shoes are another fashion staple that should never meet the inside of a washing machine. The water and detergent can wreak havoc on the material, leaving you with a pair of shoes that look far from their original glory. Shoe care expert, John Peters from Peters’ Shoe Clinic, advises that “the key to keeping suede looking fresh is regular brushing and immediate attention to stains.” Suede is unique in that it requires a specific type of brush and cleaner, often available at shoe stores, to lift dirt and restore its nap. For stubborn stains, a professional cleaning service is your best bet.

Putting suede shoes in the wash can also cause them to lose shape and color. This is particularly true if your machine uses hot water or a vigorous spin cycle. Take the time instead to treat suede with a protective spray that guards against water and stains. This preventive step can save you from much more labor-intensive cleaning later on. A small investment in basic care can extend the life of your suede shoes significantly, keeping them looking sharp season after season.

4. Embellished Clothes

Clothing adorned with sequins, beads, or other embellishments can easily turn from fabulous to flawed in a washing machine. The machine’s movements can dislodge the embellishments, leaving gaps or causing them to fall off entirely. Even worse, they might snag and damage other clothes in the load. Hand washing these items in cold water is a safer way to preserve their decorative elements. Alternatively, dry cleaning can be a reliable option for heavily embellished garments.

When you must use a washing machine, placing embellished items in a mesh wash bag can offer a layer of protection, though it’s not foolproof. Always use the delicate cycle and cold water settings if you attempt this. Avoid the dryer entirely, as the heat can warp embellishments and further compromise their attachment. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your party-ready outfits remain dazzling and intact. Remember, a little extra effort goes a long way in making sure your statement pieces are ready for their next debut.

5. Cashmere Sweaters

Cashmere, the luxurious fabric we all adore, demands extra attention to maintain its softness and shape. Throwing a cashmere sweater into the washing machine can cause it to lose its natural luster and become misshapen. Dr. Lisa Collins, a textile scientist, points out that “cashmere fibers are delicate and require gentle handling to prevent damage.” Hand washing in cold water with a gentle detergent specifically designed for wool is the best method to preserve your cashmere. After washing, gently press out the water with a towel and reshape the garment before laying it flat to dry.

Machine washing can also cause pilling, which detracts from cashmere’s once pristine appearance. The heat and agitation can shrink the fibers, rendering your favorite sweater a size too small. To avoid this, resist the urge to wring or twist your cashmere pieces, as this can stretch and distort them. If you’re uncertain about washing your cashmere at home, professional cleaning services can provide peace of mind and optimal results. Ultimately, the care you invest in your cashmere will pay off, allowing you to enjoy its warmth and elegance for years.

6. Hats

Hats, whether made of wool, straw, or cotton, often have distinctive shapes that can be ruined by the aggressive cycles of a washing machine. The brim, especially, can lose its structure, leaving you with a floppy or misshapen hat. It’s best to wash hats by hand using a gentle soap and cold water, which helps them retain their original form. Use a soft brush to lightly scrub away any stains or dirt. Allow hats to air dry on a flat surface, reshaping them as needed.

While some hats may boast of being machine-washable, even these can suffer from color fading or material damage over time. The heat of a dryer can also cause shrinkage, making a snug fit impossible. If you’re dealing with a particularly delicate or valuable hat, a trip to the dry cleaner might be worth the investment. Take the time to care for your hats properly, and they’ll continue to be a stylish addition to your wardrobe. Remember, a well-maintained hat can make all the difference in completing your look.

7. Wool Blankets

Wool blankets are warm and cozy, but they aren’t machine-friendly. Washing machines can cause them to shrink, felt, or lose their softness. Textile expert Sarah Green, author of “Wool Care 101,” suggests that “hand washing or using a professional cleaning service is the best approach for preserving woolen blankets.” Use a mild detergent formulated for wool and lukewarm water to gently clean them. Once washed, lay the blanket flat to dry, reshaping it as needed to maintain its form.

The dryer is a particularly dangerous place for wool, as heat and agitation can significantly alter the material’s texture. Even if your blanket comes with a care label suggesting machine cleaning, consider the longevity and quality of the blanket before making a decision. Frequent machine washing can degrade the fibers, making the blanket less effective at providing warmth. By investing some extra effort in their care, you can ensure your woolen blankets remain a comforting staple in your home. Proper maintenance not only keeps them looking great but also enhances their durability.

8. Silk Scarves

Silk scarves are synonymous with elegance, but they require a gentle touch when it comes to cleaning. Washing machines can stretch and tear the delicate fibers, leaving you with a scarf that’s far from fashionable. The best way to clean a silk scarf is by hand washing it in cold water with a detergent specifically formulated for silk. Gently swirl the scarf in soapy water to remove dirt, then rinse thoroughly with cold water. Lay the scarf flat to dry, avoiding direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Even on a delicate cycle, a washing machine can cause irreversible damage to silk. The tumble action can lead to snags, while the heat can alter the sheen and color of the fabric. If you’re short on time, consider using a mesh wash bag for added protection, but this is not foolproof. For particularly valuable or sentimental pieces, professional cleaning is a wise choice. Remember, treating silk with care ensures that it continues to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe for years to come.

9. Sneakers

While it might be tempting to toss your sneakers into the washing machine, think twice before you do. Many sneakers are made with materials that don’t respond well to the heat and agitation of a washing cycle. The glue that holds them together can weaken, leading to separation of the sole from the upper part. Additionally, the fabric can tear, and colors may fade. A better option is to clean them by hand using a soft brush, mild detergent, and cold water.

For those sneakers that claim to be machine-washable, using a mesh bag can help minimize damage. However, avoid the dryer at all costs, as the heat can warp the shoe’s shape and damage any rubber components. Air drying is the safest method after washing, but ensure they dry in a well-ventilated area to prevent any lingering odors. By dedicating a little extra time to hand-clean your sneakers, you can prolong their life and keep them looking fresh. It’s a small price to pay for maintaining your favorite pair of kicks.

10. Backpacks

Throwing a backpack into the washing machine may seem like a quick fix, but it can lead to structural damage and fabric wear. The straps and seams can weaken or break, and any waterproof coating may become compromised. Hand washing your backpack with a gentle detergent and a soft brush is the best way to maintain its integrity. Focus on areas that tend to accumulate dirt, like the bottom and shoulder straps. Rinse thoroughly and let the backpack air dry, avoiding direct heat sources that can warp or shrink the fabric.

Even backpacks labeled as machine-washable can suffer from repeated washes. The zippers can become misaligned, and logos or reflective strips may peel off. To minimize wear and tear, spot cleaning is recommended for minor stains and everyday dirt. For a deep clean, soaking the backpack in a tub of lukewarm water can be an effective alternative to machine washing. By taking the time to care for your backpack properly, you can ensure it continues to be a reliable companion on all your adventures.

11. Curtains

Curtains can freshen up a room, but they aren’t always washer-friendly. The repeated motion and water exposure can cause them to fade or lose their shape. Plus, curtains often come with different types of linings and embellishments, which can be damaged in a machine cycle. It’s better to spot clean small stains with a mild detergent or use professional cleaning services for a thorough clean. If you do decide to machine wash, check the fabric type and use the gentlest cycle possible.

Curtains made from sensitive materials like silk or velvet should never see the inside of a washing machine. The heat and friction can lead to irreversible damage, ruining the texture and appearance. Regular vacuuming can help maintain their cleanliness by removing dust and allergens. For those who prefer a DIY approach, steaming can freshen up curtains without the risk of water damage. Investing in proper care will keep your curtains looking grand and ensure they provide a stylish backdrop for your living space.

12. Stuffed Animals

Stuffed animals are beloved companions, but they can suffer from a trip through the washing machine. The agitation can tear seams, while the heat can cause stuffing to bunch up or even melt, depending on the material. Spot cleaning with a cloth and mild detergent is often enough for minor stains and keeps the toy intact. For a deeper clean, consider hand washing with cool water or using a mesh laundry bag on a gentle cycle. Air drying is essential, as using a dryer can lead to further damage.

Over time, machine washing can cause colors to fade and materials to degrade. If the stuffed animal has electronic components or special features, machine washing is definitely not an option. Regular maintenance, like vacuuming with a brush attachment, can help keep dust and allergens at bay. For deeply cherished toys, professional cleaning might be worth the investment to ensure they last a lifetime. By handling these keepsakes with care, you preserve both their appearance and the memories they embody.

13. Rugs

Rugs, especially large or heavy ones, are not suited for the washing machine. The weight and bulk can cause your machine to become unbalanced, leading to potential damage to both the appliance and the rug. The fibers can become matted or distorted, ruining the rug’s appearance and texture. Spot cleaning is a more feasible option for dealing with stains, using a rug-specific cleaner and a soft brush. For a more thorough clean, take your rug to a professional cleaner who specializes in large textiles.

Even smaller rugs that fit into a washing machine can suffer from fraying edges and color bleeding. Repeated exposure to water and detergent can cause the colors to fade and the fibers to weaken. Regular vacuuming can help maintain cleanliness by removing loose dirt and debris. For those made of natural fibers, occasional airing out can help maintain freshness without the risk of water damage. Proper care ensures your rugs remain a vibrant part of your home decor for years to come.