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7 surprising items to wash in the washing machine

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– **Drying:** After washing, air dry the bed or dry it on a low heat setting in the dryer. Some pet beds may take longer to dry, so consider flipping the bed halfway through the drying process to ensure even drying. Again, check the care instructions on the pet bed’s label to avoid shrinkage.

**Items You Can Wash:**
– Pet bed covers
– Pet blankets
– Pet toys (non-plush, like rubber or silicone)

Washing your pet’s bed in the washing machine helps eliminate allergens, bacteria, and odors, providing a cleaner, healthier environment for both you and your pet.

### **3. Shower Curtains: A Quick Refresh**

Shower curtains are often overlooked when it comes to regular cleaning, but they can accumulate soap scum, mildew, and grime quite quickly. Instead of scrubbing them by hand or replacing them often, you can wash most shower curtains in the washing machine for an easy refresh.

**How to Wash Shower Curtains in the Washing Machine:**

– **Prepping the Curtain:** Check the label on your shower curtain for care instructions, as some materials like vinyl may not be machine washable. For fabric shower curtains, remove any hooks or rings before placing them in the washing machine.

– **Washing Cycle:** Wash your curtain on a gentle cycle with cold water. If you’re concerned about mildew or soap buildup, add a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle. Vinegar will help to eliminate the soap scum and any lingering mildew odors.

– **Drying:** Hang the curtain to dry or dry it on a low-heat setting if it’s safe to do so. Be sure to let it air out fully before hanging it back in the bathroom.

**Items You Can Wash:**
– Fabric shower curtains
– Plastic or vinyl shower curtains (check the label)

Regularly washing your shower curtain helps remove mold and mildew, keeping your bathroom looking fresh and free of bacteria.

### **4. Hats: Cleaning Without Losing Shape**

Hats, particularly baseball caps and other soft fabric hats, can become grimy from sweat, dust, and dirt. Instead of cleaning them by hand, which can be time-consuming and may damage their structure, the washing machine is a quick and easy solution to get them looking new again.

**How to Wash Hats in the Washing Machine:**

– **Prepping the Hat:** Place your hat inside a mesh laundry bag or a dedicated hat washer. This protects the hat from getting crushed or deformed during the wash. Always remove any removable accessories or parts, like a pin or decorative piece, before washing.

– **Washing Cycle:** Use a gentle cycle with cold water to prevent the hat from losing its shape. Mild detergent should be sufficient to clean the hat, but avoid using too much soap to prevent excess residue. For extra freshness, consider adding a cup of vinegar to help with deodorizing.

– **Drying:** Avoid putting hats in the dryer, as the heat can cause them to lose their shape. Instead, let them air dry by placing them on a hat rack or stuffing the inside with a towel to maintain their form.

**Items You Can Wash:**
– Baseball caps
– Beanies (fabric)
– Visors
– Sun hats (fabric)

By washing your hats in the washing machine, you can keep them looking clean and fresh without the need for hand washing, all while preserving their shape.

### **5. Plush Toys: A Hygienic Solution for Soft Toys**

Children’s plush toys are known to accumulate dirt, germs, and allergens over time. Given that kids often put their stuffed animals in their mouths or cuddle with them all night, it’s essential to wash these toys regularly. Fortunately, many plush toys can be safely cleaned in the washing machine.

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