10 Surprising Items You Can Wash in Your Washing Machine (Besides Clothes)
Be Swept Away with Maid 4 Cleaning – St. Louis’ Trusted Home Cleaning Experts
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Let’s face it—hand-washing everything around your home isn’t just tedious, it’s nearly impossible with today’s busy schedules. The good news? Your washing machine is more powerful (and versatile) than you think.
At Maid 4 Cleaning, we love helping St. Louis homeowners get more done in less time. Here are 10 unexpected household items you can throw in the wash—saving time, money, and your sanity.
1. Small Rugs & Bath Mats
These household staples collect dirt, dust, and bacteria quickly.
Tips:
Shake them out and vacuum first.
Wash on cold with a gentle detergent.
Air-dry to preserve backing or fabric.
Avoid overloading your machine; wash similar materials together.
2. Bed Pillows
Instead of tossing stained pillows, give them a deep clean.
Tips by Material:
Feather/Down: Use powder detergent and warm water on a delicate cycle.
Polyester: A small amount of liquid detergent will do—no more than 1 tablespoon.
Memory Foam or Latex: Do not machine wash. Spot clean only.
Buckwheat Hulls: Remove filling and sun-dry it. Wash the cover separately.
Dry pillows with dryer balls or clean tennis balls to restore their fluff.
3. Lunch Bags
Forgotten food and mystery smells? It happens.
Tips:
Check all pockets and leave zippers open.
Wash with towels on a cold cycle using standard detergent.
Hang upside down to air-dry thoroughly.
Clean these every two weeks to prevent bacteria buildup.
4. Oven Mitts & Potholders
These get splattered often but rarely get cleaned.
Tips:
Spot treat grease or baked-on stains.
Wash in cold water with towels.
Air-dry to prevent shrinking or damage.
Check seams and padding to make sure they hold up in the wash.
5. Canvas Shoes
Perfect for spring and summer, but they get dirty fast.
Tips:
Remove laces and insoles.
Use a mesh laundry bag to avoid tangling.
Wash in cold water on a delicate cycle with non-bio detergent.
Let them air-dry with paper inside to maintain shape.
Skip the bleach to avoid fading or fabric damage.
6. Stuffed Animals
A beloved toy doesn’t need to stay grimy.
Tips:
Remove any internal electronics or accessories.
Place in a mesh bag or pillowcase.
Wash in cold water on gentle, then air-dry completely.
Avoid washing plush toys with glued-on parts or embellishments.
7. Reusable Grocery Bags
Used often and rarely cleaned—these can harbor serious germs.
Tips by Type:
Canvas: Wash in hot water and detergent.
Nylon: Use warm water and mild detergent.
Plastic/Polypropylene: Gentle cycle + regular soap, then air-dry.
Always remove hard inserts and disinfect separately.
8. Spin Mop Heads
Dirty mops can spread more germs than they clean.
Tips:
Place mop heads in a mesh bag.
Wash on hot with standard detergent.
Hang to air-dry fully.
Replace mop heads after 15–30 uses or when they show wear.
9. Outdoor Chair Cushions
Patio cushions absorb pollen, mildew, and grime.
Tips:
Vacuum before washing.
Wash in cold water with detergent and 1 cup of white vinegar.
Let dry in direct sunlight to kill lingering bacteria and mold.
Check care tags to ensure they’re machine-safe.
10. Pet Gear, Reusable Masks, and More
Items like washable face masks, dog bandanas, and soft collars are washer-safe, too.
Tips:
Use a laundry bag for small or strappy items.
Wash in cold water with gentle detergent.
Air-dry to extend lifespan.
Wash pet gear regularly—especially after walks in muddy or rainy weather.
Leave the Deep Cleaning to Us
If your home is feeling cluttered or overwhelming, Maid 4 Cleaning is here to help. We provide flexible, professional cleaning services in St. Louis—from regular upkeep to full refreshes—so you can focus on what matters most.
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✅ Eco-Friendly Options
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📞 Call us today at (314) 626-5885
✨ Be Swept Away with a cleaner, fresher home.
