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# **7 Surprising Items to Wash in the Washing Machine**
The washing machine is often seen as a humble household appliance used exclusively for clothes. However, in today’s world of multitasking and time-saving innovations, the washing machine has proven to be capable of much more. From shoes to pet toys, there are several unexpected items that can be cleaned in your washing machine, making it a versatile tool for your home.
In this article, we’ll explore seven surprising items that you can wash in your washing machine, saving time and effort while keeping your home clean and organized. If you’re looking for ways to maximize your washing machine’s potential, then these hacks will surely open up new possibilities.
### **1. Shoes: Sneakers, Flip-Flops, and More**
You might be surprised to know that certain types of shoes can safely be cleaned in the washing machine. From sneakers to flip-flops, washing your shoes in the machine can save you time and effort, especially when compared to cleaning them by hand. This method works particularly well for fabric, mesh, and rubber shoes.
**How to Wash Shoes in the Washing Machine:**
– **Prepping the Shoes:** Remove the laces and insoles from your shoes before placing them in the washing machine. The insoles can be washed separately by hand or thrown in the machine with the shoes, depending on their material. For extra protection, place your shoes inside a mesh laundry bag to prevent them from banging around and damaging the machine or the shoes.
– **Washing Cycle:** Use a gentle cycle, preferably with cold water, to avoid damaging the shoes. A heavy-duty cycle could cause the glue or stitching to loosen. Make sure to use a mild detergent, and avoid using too much soap to prevent excessive suds, which can harm the machine.
– **Drying:** After washing, air-dry the shoes rather than putting them in the dryer. The heat from a dryer can warp or shrink certain shoe materials. Stuff the shoes with old towels or newspaper to help them retain their shape while drying.
**Items You Can Wash:**
– Sneakers (fabric or rubber)
– Flip-flops (rubber or plastic)
– Canvas shoes (like Converse)
– Slippers (non-leather)
Cleaning shoes in the washing machine isn’t just a great way to save time—it can also prolong the life of your footwear by removing dirt, bacteria, and odor that build up over time. Just be sure to check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to ensure the shoes are machine-washable.
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### **2. Pet Beds: Keeping Your Pet’s Space Clean**
Pet owners know how quickly pet beds can become smelly and dirty. Whether it’s from fur, dirt, or accidents, your furry friend’s bed requires regular cleaning. The good news is that many pet beds are washable in the washing machine, making it easy to refresh your pet’s favorite resting spot.
**How to Wash Pet Beds in the Washing Machine:**
– **Prepping the Bed:** Check the label of your pet bed for specific care instructions. Many pet beds come with removable covers, which makes washing them much easier. If the bed doesn’t have a removable cover, check if it’s machine washable or has any parts that need hand washing.
– **Washing Cycle:** Use a gentle or normal cycle with cold or warm water. Hot water might cause some pet beds to shrink or lose shape. Opt for a pet-safe laundry detergent to avoid any irritation for your pet’s skin. If your pet bed is particularly dirty, consider adding a cup of white vinegar to help eliminate odors.
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