Washing machines have transformed our lives. They save us time and effort. But these helpful appliances can also destroy certain types of clothing. Not every fabric can survive the intense spinning and water pressure inside a machine.
Clothes That Need Special Care
Have you ever pulled a favorite sweater from the washer only to find it shrunken? Perhaps a bra lost its shape after a cycle. These are common disasters. To prevent such mishaps, you must know which items to keep away from your washing machine.
Delicate Lingerie and Bras
Never wash underwired bras in a machine. The vigorous spinning can snap the wires. Broken wires may poke through the fabric and irritate your skin. They could even damage the machine's drum. Hand wash these delicate items in cold water instead. This preserves their elasticity and shape.
Silk and Satin Garments
Silk blouses, satin nighties, and similar luxury fabrics demand gentle treatment. They are sensitive to detergent, heat, and friction. Even a delicate cycle can strip silk of its natural shine. Satin might suffer irreparable damage. Always dry clean these pieces or hand wash them with a mild detergent.
Cashmere Sweaters
Cashmere is a costly, delicate fabric. Throwing a cashmere sweater into the washer is a recipe for disaster. The fibers react badly to spinning and temperature changes. Machine washing often causes felting, which shrinks the garment permanently. This damage cannot be reversed. Hand wash cashmere in cold water or opt for professional dry cleaning.
Leather and Faux Leather Items
Keep leather jackets, pants, and skirts far from your washing machine. Water harms the natural oils in leather, leading to cracks and warping. Faux leather is not safe either. Its plastic coating can peel or crack under machine stress. Clean these items with a damp cloth or seek professional help.
Heavily Embellished Clothing
Shirts with sequins, beads, or mirror work require careful handling. The spinning action in a washer can tear off decorations. Loose beads might clog the machine's filter. Always hand wash these garments separately or have them dry cleaned to maintain their beauty.
Swimwear
Swimsuits may seem sturdy, but they are actually fragile. Machine washing weakens the fibers and stretches them out. It also breaks down elasticity quickly. Rinse your swimwear with cold water immediately after use to keep it in good condition.
Neckties and Scarves
Ties are structured garments that lose their shape when exposed to water and detergent. Machine washing can cause bubbling and permanently ruin their form. Handle these accessories with care to preserve their appearance.
Follow the Care Labels
Always check the labels on your clothes. Items marked "Dry Clean Only" use dyes or linings that do not react well with water. Ignoring these instructions can ruin your wardrobe. Give your clothes the extra care they deserve to make them last longer.
