Yes, you can generally put clothes with zippers in the washing machine, but it’s wise to take a few precautions to protect both your garments and your appliance. Zippers, especially metal ones, can snag on other fabrics or scratch the inside of your washing machine drum.

Washing Clothes with Zippers: A Comprehensive Guide

Many of us have wondered if it’s safe to toss our favorite jeans or jackets with zippers into the laundry. The good news is that for most modern washing machines and clothing, the answer is a resounding yes. However, a little care goes a long way in preventing potential damage. Understanding how to properly prepare your zippered items can save you from ripped seams, torn fabrics, and scratched drums.

Why Zippers Can Be Tricky in the Wash

Zippers, particularly those made of metal, have a rough texture and sharp edges. These characteristics can pose a risk to delicate fabrics in the same load. They can also cause superficial damage to the interior of your washing machine, leading to scratches or even small dents over time.

• Snagging: The teeth of a zipper can catch on threads of other garments, causing pulls and tears.
• Scratching: Metal zippers can abrade the surface of your washing machine drum.
• Noise: Zippers can create a considerable amount of noise during the wash and spin cycles.

Best Practices for Washing Zippered Clothing

To ensure your zippered items come out clean and undamaged, follow these simple steps. These precautions are especially important for items with exposed metal zippers or those made from delicate materials.

1. Zip It Up!

Always zip up all zippers completely before placing them in the washing machine. This simple action helps to contain the zipper’s teeth and prevent them from snagging on other items. It also reduces the likelihood of the zipper itself getting caught on something.

2. Turn Garments Inside Out

Turning clothes with zippers inside out is another effective protective measure. This shields the zipper from direct contact with other clothes and the washing machine drum. It also helps to preserve the color and finish of the outer fabric.

3. Use a Mesh Laundry Bag

For an added layer of protection, place zippered items inside a mesh laundry bag. These bags act as a barrier, preventing the zipper from coming into contact with other garments or the machine. They are particularly useful for delicate items or those with particularly robust zippers.

• Mesh bags are inexpensive and widely available.
• They are ideal for jeans, jackets, and activewear.
• Choose bags that are appropriately sized for the garment.

4. Consider the Load

Avoid washing heavily zippered items with very delicate fabrics like silk or lace. If you’re washing a load of sturdy items like denim jeans, it’s generally less of a concern than mixing them with fine lingerie. Sticking to similar fabric types within a load minimizes the risk of damage.

5. Gentle Wash Cycle

When washing items with zippers, opt for a gentle wash cycle on your washing machine. Lower spin speeds and less aggressive agitation reduce the stress on all garments, including those with zippers. This is particularly true for garments that are older or show signs of wear.

What About Different Zipper Types?

The material of the zipper can influence the level of caution needed.

• Metal Zippers: These are the most likely to cause damage due to their hardness and potential for sharp edges. Always zip them up and consider turning items inside out or using a mesh bag.
• Plastic Zippers: Plastic zippers are generally softer and less prone to causing damage. However, it’s still a good idea to zip them up to prevent them from snagging.
• Coated Zippers: Some zippers have a coating that can be scratched or chipped. Taking precautions can help maintain their appearance.

Can Zippers Damage My Washing Machine?

While less common with modern machines, aggressive zippers, especially metal ones, can potentially cause minor scratches or scuffs on the inside of the drum over time. This is more likely to occur if you frequently wash heavily zippered items on aggressive cycles without taking protective measures. Regular maintenance and awareness can prevent this.

People Also Ask

### Can I wash a jacket with a metal zipper?

Yes, you can wash a jacket with a metal zipper, but it’s recommended to zip it up completely and turn the jacket inside out. For extra protection, consider placing it in a mesh laundry bag, especially if washing with other delicate items. This prevents the metal from snagging other clothes or scratching the machine drum.

### Will zippers ruin my washing machine?

While it’s unlikely that zippers will outright "ruin" a modern washing machine, they can cause minor cosmetic damage like scratches or scuffs on the drum’s interior surface over time. This is more probable with frequent washing of heavily zippered items without precautions. Using mesh bags and gentle cycles minimizes this risk.

### Should I wash jeans with zippers?

Absolutely. Jeans are typically made of durable denim, and their zippers are usually robust. It’s still a good practice to zip up the jeans before washing to prevent snagging. Turning them inside out can also help protect the zipper and the denim’s color during the wash cycle.

### Is it safe to wash shoes with zippers in the washing machine?

Washing shoes with zippers in a washing machine is generally not recommended. The abrasive action of the machine, combined with the weight and potential for waterlogging, can damage both the shoes and your washing machine. It’s better to clean shoes by hand or use specialized shoe-cleaning products.

### How do I protect my washing machine from zippers?

To protect your washing machine from zippers, always zip up garments before washing. Turning them inside out and using mesh laundry bags are excellent preventative measures. Opting for gentler wash cycles and avoiding overloading the machine also reduces stress on the drum and its components.

Conclusion: Zip Smart for Cleaner Clothes

In summary, putting clothes with zippers in the washing machine is perfectly acceptable with a few mindful steps. By zipping up zippers, turning garments inside out, and utilizing mesh laundry bags when necessary, you can effectively protect your clothes and your washing machine. This approach ensures your laundry routine is both efficient and safe for all your garments.

Consider incorporating these simple habits into your laundry day for peace of mind.

Ready to optimize your laundry habits? Learn more about caring for different fabric types or discover tips for extending the life of your appliances.