Washing clothes is a routine task, but not all garments are suitable for machine washing. Certain types of clothes require special care to maintain their quality and longevity. Understanding which clothes cannot be washed in a washing machine can help you avoid damage and extend the life of your wardrobe.

What Types of Clothes Cannot Be Washed in a Washing Machine?

Some clothes are too delicate, embellished, or made from materials that don’t fare well in a washing machine. Here are the primary types:

• Delicate Fabrics: Items made from silk, lace, or cashmere often require hand washing or dry cleaning.
• Embellished Garments: Clothes with sequins, beads, or embroidery can be damaged in a washing machine.
• Leather and Suede: These materials can warp or shrink when exposed to water and should be cleaned professionally.
• Tailored Suits: The structure and fabric of suits can be ruined by machine washing.
• Vintage and Heirloom Items: Older fabrics may be fragile and require special care to preserve them.

Why Can’t These Clothes Be Machine Washed?

What Happens to Delicate Fabrics in a Washing Machine?

Delicate fabrics like silk and lace can be damaged by the agitation and spinning of a washing machine. Silk may lose its sheen and become rough, while lace can tear easily. Cashmere may pill or shrink, losing its softness and shape.

How Do Embellishments Affect Machine Washing?

Garments with embellishments such as sequins or beads are at risk of losing their decorative elements. The machine’s motion can cause these items to snag, fall off, or damage other clothes.

Why Are Leather and Suede Unsuitable for Washing Machines?

Leather and suede are sensitive to water and detergents, which can cause discoloration, shrinking, and loss of texture. These materials are best cleaned using specialized methods that preserve their unique qualities.

What About Tailored Suits?

Tailored suits are constructed with specific shapes and padding that can be distorted in a washing machine. The fabric may also wrinkle or shrink, compromising the suit’s fit and appearance.

How to Care for These Special Clothes?

How Should Delicate Fabrics Be Washed?

• Hand Wash: Use a gentle detergent and lukewarm water. Gently agitate the water with your hands and rinse thoroughly.
• Dry Clean: For items labeled "dry clean only," professional cleaning is recommended to avoid damage.

What Is the Best Way to Clean Embellished Garments?

• Spot Clean: Address stains with a mild detergent and a soft cloth.
• Hand Wash: If the entire garment needs cleaning, gently hand wash it inside out.

How Are Leather and Suede Properly Maintained?

• Professional Cleaning: Use a cleaner specializing in leather and suede.
• Spot Treatment: For minor stains, use a damp cloth and a leather cleaner.

How Should Tailored Suits Be Handled?

• Dry Clean Only: Suits should be taken to a professional cleaner to maintain their shape and quality.
• Steaming: Use a steamer to remove wrinkles without damaging the fabric.

People Also Ask

Can You Wash Wool in a Washing Machine?

Wool can be machine washed if the garment is labeled as machine washable. Use cold water and a gentle cycle to prevent shrinking or felting.

Is It Safe to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine?

Some shoes, like canvas sneakers, can be machine washed. However, leather or suede shoes should never be machine washed due to potential damage.

What Happens if You Machine Wash "Dry Clean Only" Clothes?

Machine washing "dry clean only" clothes can lead to shrinkage, color bleeding, and fabric damage. Always follow the care label instructions.

Can You Use a Washing Machine for Delicate Lingerie?

Lingerie can be machine washed if placed in a mesh laundry bag and washed on a delicate cycle with cold water.

Are There Any Fabrics That Should Never Be Machine Dried?

Yes, fabrics like wool, silk, and certain synthetics should not be machine dried as they can shrink or become damaged.

Conclusion

Understanding which clothes cannot be washed in a washing machine is crucial for maintaining your wardrobe’s quality and longevity. Delicate fabrics, embellished garments, leather, suede, and tailored suits require special care. Always check the care label and opt for hand washing or professional cleaning when necessary. By taking these steps, you can ensure your clothes remain in excellent condition for years to come. For more tips on garment care, explore our guides on fabric maintenance and cleaning techniques.