Most of us have a laundry routine that feels automatic. Sort the clothes, check the pockets, add detergent, and press start. It’s easy to forget that your washing machine has limits, and some everyday items can cause problems over time.
The damage usually doesn’t happen after one wash. Small items can get stuck, heavy loads can strain the drum, and leftover residue can slowly affect how well your washer works. Before tossing everything into the machine, it helps to know which items are better washed another way.
Here are some common things that can put unnecessary stress on your washing machine.
Rubber Items
Rubber-backed mats, shoes, and cushions may seem harmless, but they can create problems during a wash cycle. They don’t move through the drum like regular fabrics, which can throw off the balance of your machine. Pieces of rubber can also break away and clog filters or drains.
For these items, hand washing is usually the safer choice.
Fabric Softener
Fabric softener can leave clothes feeling smooth and smelling fresh, but frequent use can create buildup inside your washer. The residue can collect in the dispenser, hoses, and other parts of the machine.
Over time, this buildup may affect performance and contribute to unpleasant odors. Using less fabric softener or trying options like wool dryer balls can help keep residue under control.
Too Much Detergent
Adding extra detergent might seem like a way to get cleaner clothes, but more soap doesn’t always mean better results. Too much detergent creates excess suds that may not rinse away completely.
That leftover soap can build up inside your washer, leaving behind odors and making it harder for the machine to drain properly. Following the recommended amount on the detergent label is usually enough.
Related: 10 Ways Castile Soap Can Replace Half Your Cleaning Products
Pet Hair
Pet hair can be a bigger laundry problem than many people realize. Instead of disappearing down the drain, it often clumps together and sticks to the inside of the washer.
Large amounts of hair can collect in filters and drainage areas, making it harder for water to flow properly. Brushing off blankets, pet beds, and clothing before washing can reduce the amount that ends up inside your machine.
Large and Heavy Items
Comforters, rugs, and thick blankets can become extremely heavy once they absorb water. That extra weight puts more pressure on the drum and motor, especially during the spin cycle.
If an item feels oversized for your washer when it’s dry, it may be too much once it’s soaked. Large items are often better handled by a larger-capacity machine.
Memory Foam Pillows
Memory foam pillows may have washable covers, but the foam itself usually doesn’t belong in a washing machine. The material can absorb a lot of water, become heavy, and lose its shape during the cycle.
Spot cleaning or following the manufacturer’s care instructions is usually the better option for keeping them in good condition.
Cashmere and Wool
Wool and cashmere need gentle care. A regular wash cycle can cause these fabrics to shrink, stretch, or lose their softness.
Loose fibers from delicate materials can also collect inside the machine. Hand washing or using a proper delicate setting with protection is a safer choice for these fabrics.
Keys and Jewelry
Forgetting something in your pocket can lead to expensive damage. Keys, rings, and other hard objects can scratch the drum, damage internal parts, or hit the washer door during a spin cycle.
A quick pocket check before laundry starts can prevent an unnecessary repair.
Related: Vintage Accessories Grandma Wore With Style That We Still Love Today
Coins
Coins are small, but they can create big problems inside a washing machine. They may slip into filters, block pumps, or make loud noises as they move around during the cycle.
Checking pockets before washing is one of the easiest ways to prevent this type of damage.
Waterproof Items
Waterproof clothing, shower curtains, and mattress protectors can hold onto water instead of allowing it to drain normally. This can create an uneven load and cause the washer to shake or strain during spinning.
Even items labeled as machine washable may need special care, so it’s worth checking the instructions first.
Open Zippers
Leaving zippers open can damage both your clothes and your washing machine. The metal teeth can catch on fabrics and may scratch the inside of the drum.
Taking a few seconds to zip up jackets, bags, and other clothing before washing can help prevent wear and tear.
Embellished Clothing
Clothing with beads, sequins, rhinestones, or decorative details can be risky in a washing machine. Small pieces can loosen, fall off, and end up blocking filters or getting stuck in the drum.
For delicate items with extra details, hand washing or using a protective laundry bag is usually the safer choice.
