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- Leather and suede shoes should be cleaned with appropriate cleaning products made for these materials (like leather cleaners or suede brushes).
- If washing sneakers or canvas shoes, make sure to remove the laces and place them in a laundry bag or pillowcase to minimize damage.
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5. Clothing with Stains or Spills That Aren’t Treated First
While you may think tossing a stained shirt into the wash will get rid of the dirt, untreated stains can often get worse in the washing machine, especially when exposed to heat. Grease, wine, coffee, and ink stains require pre-treatment before entering the wash cycle.
Why?
- Washing clothes with untreated stains can cause the stain to set, making it much harder to remove later.
- Some stains (like grease or oil) may spread or become embedded deeper into the fabric when exposed to water and detergent.
What to do instead:
- Always pre-treat stains by using a stain remover or liquid detergent directly on the stain before washing. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes before washing.
- For tougher stains, consider soaking the item in a stain-removing solution or using white vinegar or baking soda as a natural alternative.
Bonus: What About Items with Excessive Dirt or Mud?
Before tossing those muddy jeans into the washing machine, it’s essential to shake off or rinse off excess dirt or mud. Mud can clog the drain filter of your washing machine, leading to potential clogs and malfunctions.
What to do instead:
- Pre-rinse heavily soiled clothes to remove excess dirt before washing.
- Consider spot cleaning stubborn stains or letting clothes soak in water before washing.
Conclusion: Protect Your Laundry and Your Washing Machine
The washing machine is a modern convenience that can make laundry day a breeze, but knowing what not to put in the machine is just as important as knowing what to wash. By avoiding these 5 items—delicate fabrics, heavy blankets, clothes with metal hardware, shoes, and untreated stained clothes—you can help preserve both your clothes and your washing machine.
Taking the time to care for your garments and follow these tips will ensure your clothes last longer, your machine runs more efficiently, and your laundry routine stays smooth and stress-free. Always read care labels, and when in doubt, treat it with extra caution—your clothes (and your washing machine) will thank you!
