Caring for your washing machine is important not only for its long service life, but also for maintaining the high-quality appearance and condition of your clothes. Many of us have the habit of simply throwing everything into the drum, without thinking that some things can ruin not only your clothes, but also the equipment itself. If you want your washing machine to work longer and your things to remain intact and neat, follow simple rules and never put certain items in it.
Keys and small metal objects: a threat to the drum
Checking your pockets before washing can save your equipment from serious damage. Keys, as well as other metal trifles, such as coins or paper clips, can easily scratch the inner surface of the drum or, even worse, jam the mechanism. Car keys are particularly dangerous because their electronic chip or battery can cause a short circuit, causing not only material damage but also a safety risk.
Leather goods and shoes: why washing in the machine is harmful
Leather, even if it is just inserts, is extremely sensitive to high humidity, temperature and friction. During machine washing, leather goods can lose their shape, become stiff or crack. Such items should be cleaned by hand or with special leather products. They should be dried naturally, away from direct sunlight, so that they retain their appearance and structure.
Decorated items: lace, sequins and beads do not withstand machine washing
Decorated clothes are a real test for the drum. Sequins, beads, lace and embroidery can easily come off during washing or damage other items. It is especially risky to put such items in the machine if the elements are glued, not sewn. Lace also often deteriorates, especially when in contact with other clothes that have hooks, buttons or zippers. The optimal way to care for such items is to wash them by hand or use a protective bag.
Rubber mats and similar products: danger to the pump
Rubber products are subject to rapid wear due to contact with water, high temperature and high drum rotation. Rubber mats, for example, break down, releasing microparticles that can clog the pump or pipes of the machine. This leads to breakage, so it is better to wash such items by hand or choose other cleaning methods.
Clothes with animal hair: the cause of clogging and poor washing results
It is better not to wash items that have your pet’s hair on them in the machine. The hair accumulates inside, clogging the filters and pipes, which can lead to breakage. In addition, wool is distributed throughout the fabric during washing, and after washing it is difficult to remove it. To avoid this, pre-clean the clothes with a sticky brush or roller.
Waterproof products: how not to lose protection against moisture
At first glance, waterproof items such as raincoats or jackets seem suitable for machine washing. However, their surface is often treated with a special coating that prevents moisture from penetrating. Powder, conditioners and mechanical action during washing gradually destroy this protective layer. The result is that the item loses its water-repellent properties, which reduces its effectiveness. It is recommended to wash such items according to the instructions on the label or take them to a dry cleaner.
Overloading the machine: saving time or risking breakage?
Many people try to save time by loading the machine to the brim. However, this practice is detrimental to the quality of the wash and the technology. An overloaded drum does not allow the items to move properly, which is why they do not wash well. In addition, excess weight can negatively affect the bearings and suspension of the machine, which often causes breakdowns. To preserve your washing machine, it is better to wash fewer items in one cycle.
By following these simple recommendations, you can keep your washing machine in excellent condition for many years, and your clothes neat and intact. It is important to remember that some items are simply not intended for machine washing, and proper care for them is the key to their long service life.
