Laundry care: Items that can damage clothing or washing machines

Certain types of clothing and household habits can damage both garments and washing machines. Sensitive items featuring sequins, beads, thin embroidery, or lace should be hand-washed or dry-cleaned to prevent tearing or loss of decorations.

Undergarments containing metal clasps or underwires can damage the machine's interior; using a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase is recommended for protection. Footwear with leather components should never be machine-washed, as it can ruin the material, and some sneakers may shrink or lose durability.

Safety risks include clothing stained with flammable solvents like gasoline or thinner. These items should not be placed in a dryer due to fire risks; instead, stains should be treated with appropriate cleaners and the items washed separately. Additionally, pet hair should be removed from clothing before washing to prevent it from clogging drains or sticking to the machine's interior.