Have you ever wondered what else your washing machine can handle besides your regular laundry?
You might be surprised to learn that there are plenty of items you can throw in without a second thought.
While some things are delicate and need special care, others can actually benefit from a spin in the machine.
Let’s take a look at 11 surprising items you can safely wash in your machine.
1. Stuffed Animals
Believe it or not, many stuffed animals are machine washable.
If your child’s favorite teddy bear is looking a little worse for wear, the washing machine can bring it back to life.
Just be sure to check the tag first for any washing instructions.
Most stuffed animals can handle a gentle cycle with cold water.
To protect their little faces from too much wear and tear, you can place them inside a pillowcase or a laundry bag.
This extra step will keep the fabric from getting damaged or the stuffing from getting lumpy.
Once they’re done, let them air dry, and they’ll be as good as new.
2. Shower Curtains
Shower curtains, especially the plastic ones, can get dirty and moldy over time.
But did you know you can throw them in the washing machine?
Whether it’s a fabric or plastic shower curtain, the machine can give it a thorough clean.
For plastic curtains, wash them on a gentle cycle with warm water, adding a couple of towels to the load to help scrub off the grime.
For fabric curtains, use the regular cycle with a bit of detergent.
Afterward, just hang them back up to dry, and your shower will look fresh and clean again.
3. Yoga Mats
Yes, you can wash your yoga mat in the machine!
If you’ve been sweating through your yoga sessions, your mat could probably use a good clean.
Instead of scrubbing it down by hand, roll it up and place it in the washing machine.
A gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent will do the trick.
Make sure to skip the spin cycle, though, as this could warp or damage the mat.
Once it’s done, hang it to air dry in a cool place, and it will be ready for your next workout.
4. Canvas Sneakers
If your canvas sneakers are looking grimy, don’t reach for a scrub brush just yet.
Your washing machine can take care of them with ease.
Remove the laces and insoles, and toss the sneakers into the machine.
It’s a good idea to throw in a few towels to balance the load and protect the shoes from banging around.
Use cold water and a gentle cycle, and avoid the dryer as the heat can shrink the shoes or damage the glue.
Let them air dry, and they’ll be looking as fresh as the day you bought them.
5. Reusable Grocery Bags
Reusable grocery bags are a great eco-friendly option, but they can get dirty fast.
Between spilled food and sticky messes, they might start to smell after a while.
Luckily, most fabric grocery bags can be washed in the machine.
Turn them inside out, and wash them on a regular cycle with cold or warm water.
Just make sure to avoid the dryer, as the heat can weaken the fabric or cause shrinkage.
Air dry them instead, and they’ll be clean and ready for your next shopping trip.
6. Oven Mitts and Potholders
Oven mitts and potholders see a lot of action in the kitchen, and they tend to pick up stains and grease over time.
Instead of scrubbing them by hand, you can toss them in the washing machine.
Use a regular cycle with warm water and a little extra detergent to get rid of stubborn grease stains.
It’s best to let them air dry to avoid any shrinking or damage from the dryer.
Once they’re clean, your kitchen tools will be back in action, ready to handle the heat again.
7. Small Rugs and Mats
Do you have a small rug or mat that’s seen better days?
Instead of spending money on professional cleaning, try washing it in your machine.
Many small rugs, especially cotton or synthetic ones, can be safely washed in a regular cycle.
Be sure to shake out any loose dirt or debris before tossing them in.
For extra protection, you can add a few towels to the load to prevent the rug from getting too beat up during the spin cycle.
After the wash, hang it to air dry, and it’ll look like new again.
8. Car Mats
Car mats get dirty quickly, especially if you live in a place with lots of rain or snow.
But did you know you can wash your fabric car mats in the machine?
Simply shake off the loose dirt and dust, and then toss them into the washing machine.
Use a gentle cycle with cold water, and add a bit of extra detergent if the mats are particularly dirty.
Once they’re clean, let them air dry completely before putting them back in your car.
It’s an easy way to keep your car fresh without much hassle.
9. Baseball Caps
Baseball caps can collect sweat, dirt, and oil from regular wear, and hand washing them can be a pain.
But your washing machine can do the work for you!
Place the cap inside a laundry bag or pillowcase to protect its shape, and use a gentle cycle with cold water.
Avoid using the dryer, as the heat can shrink the cap or warp its brim.
Instead, let it air dry by reshaping it and placing it on a towel.
This way, your favorite cap will stay in good condition and ready to wear again.
10. Backpacks
Backpacks go through a lot—whether it’s from carrying heavy textbooks, hiking gear, or everyday essentials.
Dirt, sweat, and even food spills can build up over time.
Luckily, many backpacks can be cleaned right in your washing machine.
Before you toss it in, remove any detachable parts like straps or buckles.
Turn the backpack inside out, and place it in a pillowcase or laundry bag to protect it during the wash.
Use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.
Once the wash is done, air dry the backpack by hanging it up or laying it flat.
It’ll look fresh and be ready for more adventures.
11. Pet Beds
If your furry friend’s bed is starting to smell or look a little worn, don’t worry—you can wash it in the machine!
Most pet beds come with a removable cover that can be cleaned in a regular cycle.
However, even the whole bed, if small enough, can be washed on a gentle cycle.
Use a mild detergent and cold water to keep the fabric from getting damaged.
After the wash, let the bed air dry thoroughly, especially if it’s stuffed, to avoid any mold or mildew buildup.
Your pet will thank you for the fresh, clean sleeping spot!
Final Thoughts
Your washing machine is capable of much more than just cleaning clothes.
From stuffed animals to yoga mats, it can handle a surprising variety of items with ease.
The key is to check the care labels, use the right settings, and avoid the dryer when necessary.
By taking advantage of your machine’s capabilities, you can save time, energy, and even money on cleaning services.
The next time you’re tempted to hand wash something, remember to check if your washing machine can do the job for you.
It might just surprise you!