The washing machine is one of the most useful appliances in any home. With the push of a button, it saves time, effort, and energy. However, not everything belongs inside it. Some items can be damaged beyond repair, while others may harm your washing machine itself. Knowing what not to wash in the machine is just as important as knowing how to use it properly. Below are five things you should never put in the washing machine, along with clear explanations and safer alternatives.
1. Shoes with Delicate Structure or Special Materials
While some sneakers are labeled as machine-washable, many shoes are not. Leather shoes, suede footwear, high heels, and shoes with glued components should never go in the washing machine. The intense spinning and water exposure can cause leather to crack, suede to stiffen, and glue to weaken, leading to permanent damage.
Even athletic shoes can suffer if washed too often. The washing machine can warp the shape, ruin cushioning, and cause soles to separate. In addition, shoes banging around inside the drum may damage the machine itself.
Safer alternative:
Clean shoes by hand using a soft brush, mild soap, and lukewarm water. For athletic shoes, remove the laces and insoles and clean them separately. Air-dry only—never use high heat.
2. Clothing with Excessive Zippers, Metal, or Embellishments
Garments decorated with metal studs, heavy zippers, sequins, beads, or embroidery can be destructive in the washing machine. These items can snag on other clothes, causing tears and stretching. At the same time, the metal parts can scratch the drum of the washing machine, shortening its lifespan.
Bras with underwire are especially risky. Loose wires can come out during washing and get stuck inside the machine’s internal components, leading to costly repairs.
Safer alternative:
Hand wash embellished clothing or use a professional dry cleaner. If machine washing is unavoidable, place items in a mesh laundry bag, fasten all zippers, and use a gentle cycle—but even this is not risk-free.
3. Memory Foam and Foam-Based Items
Memory foam pillows, mattress toppers, and foam cushions should never be placed in the washing machine. When saturated with water, memory foam becomes extremely heavy and fragile. The agitation and spinning can cause it to tear apart or lose its shape completely.
Additionally, foam absorbs water deeply and takes a very long time to dry. Trapped moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors that are difficult to remove.
Safer alternative:
Spot clean foam items using a damp cloth and mild detergent. For odors, sprinkle baking soda over the surface, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it off. Always allow foam to air-dry completely in a well-ventilated area.
4. Items Covered in Pet Hair or Sand
Blankets, rugs, or clothing heavily covered in pet hair or sand should not go straight into the washing machine. Pet hair can clump together, clog the machine’s drainage system, and stick to the drum even after the wash cycle is finished. Sand and grit, on the other hand, act like tiny abrasives that can scratch the interior of the machine.
Over time, these issues reduce washing efficiency and may cause mechanical problems.
Safer alternative:
Before washing, remove as much pet hair as possible using a lint roller, rubber brush, or vacuum. Shake out sandy items outdoors thoroughly. Once most debris is removed, washing becomes safer and more effective.
5. Delicate Fabrics Like Silk, Wool, and Lace (Unless Labeled Machine-Safe)
Silk, wool, cashmere, and lace are some of the most delicate fabrics, and washing machines can be too harsh for them. Heat, agitation, and regular detergent can cause shrinking, fading, stretching, or tearing. Wool items are especially vulnerable to felting, where fibers mat together and permanently change texture and size.
Even if an item looks sturdy, always check the care label before washing.
Safer alternative:
Hand wash delicate fabrics using cold water and a detergent designed for gentle materials. Lightly press out excess water—never wring. Lay flat to dry or hang carefully to maintain shape. When in doubt, dry cleaning is the safest option.
Final Thoughts
Your washing machine is powerful, but it’s not meant for everything. Putting the wrong items inside can ruin your belongings and lead to expensive appliance repairs. By understanding which items require special care—such as delicate fabrics, foam materials, embellished clothing, certain shoes, and debris-covered items—you can extend the life of both your clothes and your washing machine.
