5 things you can put in the washing machine that are not clothes

Next to the dishwasher, the washing machine It is one of the most practical inventions that has entered homes. The dirty clothes are collected in the laundry basket and put in the machine, and after an hour or two we can hang clean clothes on the clothesline for it to dry. But do we get the most out of it?

What things can be washed in the washing machine?

In the washing machine you can also put other things that are not shirts, pants and dresses. We have compiled five surprising things that you can put in the washing machine and we show you what you should pay attention to when washing them.

1. Slippers, unless they are made of leather

You can put in the washing machine without fear sneakers and shoes made of fabrics such as cotton, hemp or linen.

It is best to remove the most obvious dirt in advance and put the shoes in a mesh bag. Then you can wash them along with the rest of your clothes.

But be careful, If you find any part of leather on the shoe, you should not put it in the washing machine. Leather shrinks and the shoe may not fit well after washing, it may lose shape.

Another criterion for excluding shoes in the washing machine is that has metal buckles that cannot be removed. Nothing is wrong with the buckles but they could damage the washing machine.

In the case of having smelly shoes that aren’t really very dirty, it is often enough to remove the insoles and wash them. You can easily put the insole in the washing machine on a 30 degree program.

2. Wash rugs and bathroom mats

You can use the washing machine to remove dirt and dust of rugs and bath mats.

Outdoor ventilation prevents musty odors, but From time to time you should thoroughly clean the rugs, especially the bathroom ones, and that is very easy in the washing machine.

Rugs and bath mats made of cotton or synthetic materials such as polyester are easy to clean, you can put in the washing machine and wash them at 30 degrees using the delicate cycle. Subsequently, it is best to dry them in the open air until they are completely dry.

However, if at home you have a rug made of a sensitive material such as raffia, sisal, fur or leather, you should not wash it in the washing machine, Instead, take it to the dry cleaner for a professional cleaning.

3. Shower curtain in the washing machine?

The shower curtains constantly receive shampoo and shower gel as well as water that constantly wets them when you shower, but you should still clean them regularly to remove limescale and other dirt.

We recommend you put the shower curtains in the washing machine at 30 degrees every quarter or wash according to label instructions.

It is not necessary to hang the curtain on the clothesline to dry it, simply you can hang it back in the shower and pull it up so it is fully extended.

If you are afraid to put it in the washing machine, you can put a pinch of vinegar in a container full of water or in the bathtub itself and clean the shower curtain with the liquid and a sponge.

4. Building blocks

Colorful Lego bricks and other plastic building blocks are among the most popular children’s toys. Because they are used a lot, they also come into contact with all kinds of dirt and germs. Therefore, periodic cleaning is mandatory.

You can place the pieces in a pillowcase (which is conveniently washed at the same time) with a zipper closure and machine wash at 30 degrees.

To dry the pieces, simply spread out towels and place the Lego bricks on them with the open side facing down.

5. Wash the dog basket or cat bed

Almost all pets have a favorite place to sleep. Dogs love beds or baskets, cats like to choose a soft blanket or pillow to dream of. The blankets, pillows and cushions for the beds of our four-legged friends are often forgotten when cleaning the house.

With certain precautions, you can wash them in the washing machine. Every few months you should brush the blankets and remove any obvious dirt. Put everything in a laundry bag and set the washing machine to 30 degrees with no spin.

Keep in mind that before using the washing machine with the next load of clothes, you must remove any remaining pet hair with a cloth.