5 Things You Should Never Put in the Washing Machine – They’re Not Only Ineffective to Clean but Also Dangerous

Many people tend to toss everything into the washing machine without realizing that doing so not only reduces cleaning effectiveness but also damages the items, shortens the machine’s lifespan, and may even pose fire or explosion risks.

The washing machine is a helpful assistant that saves time and effort. However, not everything can be thrown into it without consequences. Some items not only don’t get properly cleaned, but can also damage the machine, create fire or health hazards. Here are 5 things you should absolutely avoid putting in your washing machine:

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1. Shoes
It’s common for people to throw shoes into the washing machine for convenience, but this is a major mistake. Sneakers, leather shoes, high heels, or shoes with metal decorations are hard to clean this way and can dirty the drum, deform the shoes, or damage the machine. The weight of wet shoes can strain the motor and spinning axis, increasing the risk of malfunction or fire. Additionally, bacteria like E. coli or Staphylococcus aureus from shoes can transfer to clothes and pose health risks. It’s best to wash shoes by hand or take them to a specialized cleaning service.

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2. Rubber, Feather, or Herbal Pillows
Not all pillows are washing-machine safe. Rubber, herbal, or feather pillows can become deformed, break apart, or lose their quality in the wash. Detergents and water may not rinse out completely, leading to bacteria and mold buildup, which can trigger allergies or respiratory problems. Washing them together with clothes increases the risk of cross-contamination. Instead, gently hand wash these pillows or use a professional cleaning service.

3. Clothes or Accessories with Metal or Decorative Beads
Items like dresses with metal embellishments, large buttons, or decorative beads can come loose during washing. These parts may scratch the drum, clog the drainage system, or tear other clothes. More dangerously, metal accessories can damage internal components, leading to short circuits, water leaks, or even fires. Always remove such accessories before washing or opt for hand washing.

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4. Heavy or Oversized Blankets
Large blankets, such as thick cotton or woolen ones, become extremely heavy when soaked, exceeding the load capacity of a household washing machine. This can cause overloading, ineffective cleaning, and damage to the motor or spinning mechanism. It may also result in electrical issues. Inner padding may shift and distort the blanket's structure or clog the drum. For safety and efficiency, take large blankets to an industrial laundry service.

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5. Down Jackets
Down jackets are not suitable for regular home washing machines. Machine washing can cause the feathers to clump together, reducing insulation and damaging the jacket’s structure. Residual detergent may irritate the skin, while loose feathers or fabric pieces can clog the drainage system, potentially leading to malfunctions or fire hazards. To preserve the jacket’s quality, hand wash it or use a professional dry-cleaning service.

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Bottom Line:
Using a washing machine improperly can lead to more harm than good. Knowing what not to put inside will help protect your belongings, your health, and the machine itself.