12 Things We Didn’t Know We Could Wash in the Washing Machine

Did you know your washing machine can wash way more than just your regular clothes? Don’t waste time scrubbing things by hand, put your machine to work for you! So many everyday household items can easily be washed in the machine and you’d be surprised just how clean they come out.

Here’s a list of 12 things you might not have known are safe to put in the washer. I have washed every item on this list and have always had great results.

Just think of all the time you can save, making your cleaning routine so much quicker and easier!

Stuffed Animals

When my daughter was little, those stuffed animals followed us everywhere — and took a beating as a result. I washed her stuffies often. They are generally safe to wash in the machine, but keep a few things in mind.

If the stuffed animal has a lot of embellishments, use a laundry bag to keep it safe during the wash. If there are any internal electronics be sure to remove them before washing. A gentle wash cycle can do wonders in refreshing your child’s favorite stuffed animals.

Pillows

Instead of throwing out stained or musty pillows, give them a good wash! Most pillows, even those made of natural fibers like down or synthetic materials, can be added to your washing machine.

A front-loading machine is best to prevent uneven cleaning, and always check the label in case it is a “dry clean only” item. Pillows should be washed every 6 months to keep them fresh and free from bacteria and odors.

Backpacks

Kids are dirty by nature and those backpacks they carry to school and back every day can collect a lot of dirt and grime. To help them look new and fresh, you can clean most canvas backpacks in the washing machine.

Before tossing it in, be sure to go through all the pouches and pockets and remove any items inside. I used to put the vacuum hose into the bottom of the bag before washing it to remove all the crumbs and dirt. Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water and then lay it flat to dry.

Running Shoes

I’ve been washing our shoes in the washing machine for years. You’d be amazed how new they come out looking! There are a few steps to take though.

First, start by brushing off any loose dirt or mud. Remove the insoles and laces which can be added to a laundry bag to keep them safe.

It’s best to add some old towels or a blanket to help balance out the load. Use a mild detergent, cold water, and a gentle cycle. Once they are done, let them air-dry naturally, preferably in a sunny spot. Washing your shoes will help keep them looking fresh and new all over again.

Small Rugs

Small rugs in high-traffic areas like those by your front door can build up a lot of dirt and grime. Check the tag to see if it is safe for the washing machine and wash it monthly to keep it looking new and fresh.

Use a cold water cycle and hang to dry to avoid damaging the fabric. If your rug has a rubber backing then take a little extra care and only wash sparingly on the gentlest cycle to help keep the backing intact. There is no need to buy new rugs when you can just wash them for a new clean look.

Shower Curtain

Shower curtains can build up a lot of grime and, in some cases, mold or mildew. Most of them are completely safe for the washing machine, but check the tags to be sure. Before washing, remove any hooks and add a few towels to help balance the load.

Use warm water on a gentle cycle, you can add some bleach (for white or transparent curtains only) if you’re fighting any mildew stains. Once the load is done, hang the curtain back up to dry.

Oven Mitts and Pot Holders

Oven mitts and pot holders can get pretty grimy over time, especially after a big family holiday meal. I use a lot of pot holders at holiday dinners and they get covered with bits of food and gravy.

To freshen them up, add them to your weekly load with similar colors. Be sure to wipe off any food bits that might be stuck to them before adding them to the wash. Try adding some vinegar to any that might have grease stains. You can either lay them flat to dry or pop them in the dryer on low heat.

Mop Heads

Most mop heads can be added to the washing machine to give them a good cleaning. Check the packaging or the company’s website to make sure it is washer-safe.

Place the mop head in a mesh laundry bag before washing it to keep it intact. It’s best not to wash it with clothes, just put your washer on a small load cycle with hot water. Washing your mop head after every few uses can help keep them fresh and clean, which as a result will keep your floors cleaner.

Yoga Mats

If you have a yoga mat that has seen better days you can safely toss it into the washing machine. Be sure to use a gentle cycle with warm water, but skip the spin cycle to avoid any damage to the mat.

Air dry it afterward, either indoors or outdoors if it’s an option. For any non-rubber mats be sure to check the care instructions first. Washing your yoga mat will give it a fresh new look and help fight any odors building up.

Lunch Bags

Have you ever left food in your kid’s lunch bag before a holiday break and forgotten to clean it, only to return from holidays with a lingering smell inside? I know I’m guilty of doing this.

Lunch bags can be washed in the washing machine. Turn them inside out first to ensure you get the inside thoroughly clean. Wash them in warm water with regular detergent then lay out to dry.

Pet Beds

Pet beds can be full of dirt and lingering odors. Running them through the washing machine is a great way to keep them clean and smelling fresh. Be sure to check the label first that they are machine wash friendly.

Wash them separately from your regular laundry. Use a gentle cycle with warm water and a pet-safe detergent, one free of perfumes. Once washed, air-dry the bed completely before letting your pets use it again to ensure a clean dry spot for them.

Outdoor Patio Chair Cushions

Outdoor cushions can get pretty grimy, especially if they get left out in the rain often. To freshen them up and remove any stains, try tossing them into the washing machine. Give them a vacuum before washing to remove any debris that might be lingering. You can add some vinegar as well as your detergent to help fight bacteria buildup.

Make sure to double-check the tags to ensure the fabric can handle a machine wash. By adding your cushions to the washing machine it can help give your patio area a fresh new look.