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Unexpected Benefits of Putting Wet Towels in the Washing Machine
We all know how to use a washing machine to clean dirty laundry—but what if we told you that putting wet towels in the washing machine (strategically!) can offer surprising benefits beyond just getting them clean? This everyday habit, when used intentionally, can help with energy efficiency, balance loads, and even improve how your washer works.
Here’s a closer look at the unexpected benefits of putting wet towels in the washing machine—and how to do it right.
🌀 1. Balancing Uneven Loads
If your washing machine often thumps or shakes during the spin cycle, especially with small or lightweight items (like a few shirts or workout clothes), tossing in a wet towel can help distribute the weight more evenly.
Why it works: A damp towel adds mass and moisture to the drum, stabilizing the spin cycle and reducing loud noise or imbalance warnings.
💦 2. Helping Rinse and Rewash Loads
Left your clothes in the machine too long and they’ve developed that musty smell? Add a wet towel before starting a short rewash cycle. The dampness helps rehydrate the fabrics and ensures more effective rinsing and freshening, especially when combined with a bit of baking soda or vinegar.
♻️ 3. Boosting Washer Efficiency
Washing machines, especially modern high-efficiency models, rely on a certain amount of moisture to activate detergents and sensors. If you’re washing just a few light items, adding a wet towel can help the machine sense the right load size and improve how well it mixes the detergent.
Tip: This is especially helpful with HE (high-efficiency) machines that may struggle to detect very light or low-moisture loads.
🌿 4. Reducing Wrinkles and Static
When drying clothes in a dryer, it’s common to add a damp towel to speed up drying and reduce static. The same principle applies in the washer: a wet towel in the wash can reduce how tightly certain fabrics (like synthetics or delicates) get stuck together, minimizing wrinkles before you even hit the dryer.
