When it comes to laundry, most of us are well-versed in the usual routine—clothes, towels, sheets, and maybe a few delicate items here and there. But did you know that your washing machine can handle a lot more than just the basics? While many people may assume that certain items are off-limits for machine washing, there are a surprising number of household goods that can safely be cleaned in your washer. From everyday household items to unexpected fabric-based products, you might be surprised at what your washing machine can take on.
In this article, we’ll explore seven unexpected items you can wash in your washing machine that might just save you time, money, and effort. Whether you’re trying to freshen up an item that’s tough to clean by hand or you simply want to streamline your laundry routine, these items are surprisingly easy to toss in with your regular load—no special handwashing required.
1. Tennis Shoes and Sneakers
Did you know you can wash your tennis shoes and sneakers in the washing machine? Many people avoid washing their shoes this way, assuming it will ruin their shape or damage the fabric. However, with the right preparation, your shoes can come out looking fresh and clean. First, remove the laces and insoles (you can wash those separately) to prevent any tangling or extra wear and tear. Place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from harsh friction in the drum. You should also wash them with a load of towels or other soft items to cushion them. Use cold water and a gentle cycle to preserve their form and integrity. After the wash, air dry them to prevent the dryer from damaging the material. Washing your shoes in the machine can help remove odors, dirt, and stains, making them look like new again.
2. Stuffed Animals and Plush Toys
Did you know that many stuffed animals and plush toys can be safely cleaned in your washing machine? Parents and pet owners alike often find themselves with toys covered in dirt, spills, or pet hair. While many toys come with tags that say “surface wash only,” most plush toys are machine washable as long as they don’t have hard plastic components (like eyes or buttons) or are overly delicate. For best results, put the toy in a pillowcase or mesh laundry bag to protect it during the wash cycle. Use a gentle, cold-water setting and avoid fabric softener, as it can damage the toy’s fibers. Once the cycle is done, allow the toy to air dry—avoid using the dryer, as the heat can cause the stuffing to clump or shrink. Not only will your stuffed animals come out smelling fresh, but you’ll also eliminate any lingering germs or allergens in the process.
3. Shower Curtains
Did you know you can clean your shower curtain in the washing machine to keep it looking bright and mildew-free? Shower curtains accumulate soap scum, mildew, and grime over time, which can make them look dingy and unpleasant. Instead of scrubbing for hours, toss your plastic or fabric shower curtain into the washer. If your curtain is plastic or vinyl, check for any care instructions first, as some vinyl curtains may need to be hand-washed. For fabric shower curtains, just remove the hooks and toss the curtain into the wash with a load of towels to balance the load. Use a gentle detergent and cold water to avoid damaging the fabric or colors. After washing, let the curtain air dry or hang it back up while still damp to minimize wrinkles. By regularly washing your shower curtain, you can extend its life and keep your bathroom looking clean and fresh.
4. Hats and Caps
Did you know you can wash certain hats and baseball caps in your washing machine? If you’ve ever tried hand-washing a cap, you know it can be a tedious and tricky process. Fortunately, washing machines can handle many types of hats, especially if you take a few precautions. To start, place your hat in a special hat-shaped washing cage (or use a mesh bag) to prevent it from losing its shape. Set your washer to a gentle cycle with cold water and use mild detergent. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can break down the fabric and cause the hat’s shape to warp. Once the cycle is finished, let the hat air dry, and never put it in the dryer, as the heat can cause it to shrink or lose its form. This method works well for cotton or polyester hats, but be cautious with wool or more delicate materials, as they may require hand washing.
5. Pet Bed Liners and Blankets
Did you know that your pet’s bedding and blankets can be safely washed in the machine? Pet beds can collect a lot of dirt, dander, and odor, so it’s essential to keep them clean for your pet’s health and comfort. Many pet bed liners and covers are machine washable, but before you throw them in, make sure to check the care instructions. For machine washing, shake out any loose debris, such as pet hair or dirt, and wash the bedding separately from your regular laundry to avoid hair transfer. Use a mild detergent to ensure your pet’s skin doesn’t react to any harsh chemicals. If the bed has foam padding, consider washing just the removable cover and spot cleaning the foam insert. Air dry the bedding afterward, as the heat from the dryer can sometimes damage the filling. Keeping your pet’s bedding fresh not only promotes a healthier living environment but also extends the life of the bedding.
6. Carpet and Rug Mats
Did you know that some smaller carpet and rug mats can be washed in the washing machine? While you may think that larger area rugs require professional cleaning or a trip to the dry cleaner, smaller mats can often be refreshed in your washer. Mats used in bathrooms, kitchens, or entryways are usually machine washable. Before washing, check the label for care instructions to ensure that the material is appropriate for machine cleaning. Shake out any loose dirt and debris from the mat and place it in a mesh bag to prevent any snags. Wash the mat on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent to avoid damage to the fabric. After the wash, air dry the mat to preserve its shape. Regularly washing your mats can help eliminate odors, dirt, and bacteria, keeping your home smelling fresh and clean.
7. Comforters and Quilts
Did you know that you can wash most comforters and quilts in the washing machine, even though they’re bulky and heavy? This may seem surprising, but as long as your washing machine is large enough to accommodate the size of the comforter, it can be cleaned in the washer without issue. Before you wash your comforter, check the care label for any specific instructions or warnings. Many comforters are made from synthetic materials that can withstand the washer, but down-filled comforters or those made from delicate fabrics might require a more careful approach. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent, and avoid overloading the washer so that the comforter has enough room to move freely. After washing, dry your comforter on low heat, adding a few tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff the filling. This will leave your comforter feeling fresh, clean, and cozy without the need for expensive professional cleaning services.
Final Thoughts
Did you know that with a little creativity and the right care, you can save time and money by washing a wide range of items in your washing machine? From shoes and stuffed animals to shower curtains and pet bedding, your washer is capable of handling much more than you might expect. While it’s always essential to check the care labels and take precautions when washing delicate or bulky items, these surprising laundry hacks can help you get more out of your machine and keep your home feeling clean and fresh. So the next time you’re looking at something you might typically hand wash, consider tossing it in the machine instead—you might just be surprised at how well it turns out!