Surprising Household Items You Can Wash in a Washing Machine
Clothes, towels, and bed linens are the first items that spring to mind when you think of a washing machine. A wide variety of non-clothing objects can be safely cleaned in it as well. So, what item can the washing machine wash aside from the regular stuff? A lot. Let me tell you about the ten I run through the washer occasionally. Pillows Pillows should be cleaned regularly since they harbor dust mites that can lead to allergies. Most of them can be machine-washed. Consult the care label, if any, and wash two pillows at a time. Warm water and a tiny bit of mild detergent should be used on a moderate cycle. Finally, dry the pillows on low heat. Stuffed Animals & Plastic Toys Kids’ toys collect dirt and bacteria. Wash them in a mesh bag on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent, then air dry. Baseball Caps Sweaty and soiled caps start to smell. Protect them in a mesh bag or pillowcase, wash on a moderate cycle, reshape, clip the visor, and air dry. Sneakers and Canvas Shoes We’ve shared four laundry add-ins, and here’s another—your rubber shoes! Sometimes, they just need a wash, especially when they start smelling. When to wash these 5 household items? Whenever they need it! Shower Curtains Over time, soap crust, mildew, and bacteria can build up on shower curtains. Whether plastic or fabric, they’re usually machine-washable. Throw the curtain in with some of your towels to assist in the cleaning. Use warm water, some soap, and a cup of vinegar or baking soda for the mildew. Then, hang the curtain out to dry. Oven Mitts and Potholders Oven mitts and potholders are breeding grounds for bacteria and germs. The exposure of these kitchen linens to grease, food spills, and heat is why. Use hot water and a small amount of detergent to remove grease and stains. Finally, air dry or tumble dry on low heat. Backpacks Fabric backpacks and lunch bags can accumulate dirt, crumbs, and odors over time. They can be put in the washer, but check the care label first. Turn the bag inside out and wash it on a gentle cycle with cold water. Air-dry the bag completely before using it again. Dust Rugs & Doormats Shake off debris, wash on a gentle cycle with cold water, and sun dry. Pet Beds If you own pets, you are aware of how hair and grime accumulate on their beds. Most of these pet beds can be machine-washed. Use a soft cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Get rid of odors by adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Tumble dry on low heat after. Have An Adventurous Laundry What item can the washing machine wash aside from the usual stuff? Was the question we started with, and you now know there are many. One can use the washer for a wide range of home objects that we just covered. And so goes our practical tip from VIP Cleaners. Visit us for regular laundry or dry cleaning. For more information, call 310-271-3088.
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