Last updated on November 6th, 2019
Sitting in one corner of your utility area is the cleaning wonder of your house. Yes, your washing machine. But, did you know that this cleaning wonder can do a lot more than you actually think it can? From stuffed toys and mop heads to pillows and rugs here are 7 unexpected things you can clean in your washing machine.
1. Stuffed Toys
Kids always don’t wash their hands, which means that their toys are filled with bacteria and dirt. Give stuffed toys, and other small pieces like building blocks, and bath toys a spin in the washing machine. Just fill the toys in mesh laundry bags and set your machine to wash and rinse. Wash them in cold water and use a gentle rinse cycle. Allow them to air dry.
2. Mop Heads
Your cleaning tools are one of the dirtiest things in your house, especially the mop heads that you use! It is surprising that most of us don’t bother to clean this one item that is responsible for cleaning the entire house! Do yourself a healthy favor and toss the mop head into the washing machine. All you need to do is to remove the mop head and put it in a mesh laundry bag before you toss it in your washing machine for a thorough cleaning.
3. Rugs & Mats
Rugs and mats collect a lot of dirt. Unless the tag states ‘dry cleaning’ only, most rugs and mats can be washed in the washing machine, even the ones with a rubber-backing. It is always better to treat the stains (if any) before dumping it in the machine for a flawless result. Always wash them in cold water and use liquid detergent.
4. Pillows
Pillows are big sponge bags that absorb everything – from dust and drool to dead skin cells and sweat. It’s a no-brainer then, that we need to wash them once in a while. Whether polyester or feather-filled, most pillows can safely be tossed in the washing machine. Just remember to use a good detergent and not to overcrowd the tub, so that the pillows have enough room to move. And also, pick a sunny day to wash them up, as pillows can take a lot of time to dry completely.
5. Silicone Kitchen Tools
If you have silicone baking cups, mats, and other kitchen tools, then, by all means, drop them in the washing machine. Use a heavy-duty detergent and warm to hot water to cut through the oil and dirt. And, make sure to put them in mesh laundry bags to prevent any sort of damage.
6. Sports Shoes & Sneakers
Unless the tag specifically says not to, almost all sneakers and sports shoes can be washed in the machine. Remove the lace, and insole inserts and put them in the laundry bag and give them a wash with a good detergent and warm water. In case of stains, treat them with a stain remover, 15 minutes prior to tossing them into the washing machine.
7. Reusable Grocery Bags
Reusable grocery bags are a great initiative to reduce the use of plastics. But, these green wonder gets really dirty. So, toss them into the washing machine, whenever you see them getting dirty. Use the warm water setting to expel all the dirt.
