Goodbye to just putting clothes in the washing machine: seven other things you can wash without it breaking

Depending on the type of washing machine you have, you can load more or fewer items based on its capacity. Sleeping bags, comforters, blankets, and other clothing-like items may find a space, but there are some items you might not have considered suitable for the washer. Coats, possibly. What about shoes? And then there are the washable rugs.

If you have a busy household – especially if you host frequent parties or have a children – you may want to think even further outside the circular box.

What else can I put in my washing machine?

Kitchen oven mitts — the ones you use to avoid burns — can safely go in the machine, and they’ll come out impeccable. Similarly, kitchen cloths, which pick up food scraps and cross-contamination, should be washed frequently.

Rugs — whether they’re the ones in your car, yoga or Pilates mats, or even your bathroom mat — need to be cleaned often. We step on them every day, and they can gather a lot of dirt.

Athletic shoes and canvas sneakers should also be washed regularly. If you’re wearing socks, it might not be as bad; but when warm weather arrives and sweat meets fabric, you’ll need to wash them more often — especially to eliminate odors and potential infections. If you’re hesitant about washing the shoes themselves, at least clean their insoles so that part stays fresh.

Stuffed animals, particularly if you plan to store them, are cleaning up, or if spring arrives with the dust accumulated after a winter of heating, should be washed at least once a year. Remove any batteries, and they’ll be fine. A delicate cycle with fabric softener will prevent dirt and dust mites from building up.

Even the mop — despite being used for cleaning and constantly exposed to bleach or similar chemicals — benefits from an occasional wash. Running a short cycle in the washing machine with cleaning supplies, a duster, and a dust cloth is highly recommended.

Reusable bags — whether fabric, sturdy plastic, or any other material — should be washed occasionally so that if you use them for groceries or to carry clothing or food, nothing gets damaged or stained.

Shower curtains, whether fabric or plastic-coated, can easily be tossed in the washer. This will remove soap residue, fabric softener, shampoo, and any other remnants left behind after your shower.

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