Easily Clean Your Accessories in a Washing Machine

Having a washing machine makes your life easier. Not only can you wash your clothes, but you can also use it to clean your accessories such as scarves, hats and gloves. While there are some items which should be hand washed, most can be easily and quickly cleaned in a washing machine with a few key pieces of information in mind.

Before you start, it’s important to check the labels on your items. Avoid using the washing machine on items labelled ‘dry clean only’ or with special instructions as these items may shrink, change colour or otherwise be damaged if put in a washing machine.

Next, make sure that when washing delicate items such as scarves, gloves or clothes with beading or sequins, put them in a mesh laundry bag or pillow case to prevent damage to the fabric or trims. If possible, it’s best to wash delicate items separately from other laundry.

When you’ve chosen a washing program, use a mild detergent and a low temperature. For added protection, there are specific detergents for delicate fabrics which will help further protect your items of clothing and accessories.

Weatherproof items such as hats and gloves should also go in the washing machine. Avoid any extreme temperatures and abrasive detergents and then leave to dry naturally.

Afterwards, to help keep your accessories looking their best, it’s best to iron and press them afterwards, or use a hand steamer. This will help to maintain item shape and texture and help to lift the pile.

By following the tips above, it’s easy to quickly and easily clean accessories in your washing machine without causing shrinkage, discoloration, fading or damage to the fabric. For more information on cleaning your accessories in a washing machine and to find out what common error codes in many household appliances mean, check out our Comprehensive Appliance Error Codes Glossary.

FAQ On Washing Machine Use For Cleaning Accessories

  1. What kind of accessories can I wash in the washing machine? You can wash most types of accessories such as hats, caps, sweaters, scarves, and socks in the washing machine. It is advisable to read the labels of each item before washing them as certain materials or fabrics may need to be dry cleaned or hand washed.

  2. How do I properly load my washing machine before washing my accessories? Make sure to check the washing machine’s capacity beforehand. It is best to avoid overloading your washing machine. Once you’ve checked the capacity, use only standard settings. Items such as hats, sweaters and scarves should be placed in the drum with the pockets and any badges facing outward.

  3. What type of detergent should I use when washing my accessories? For best results, use a mild detergent to protect the fabric. Check the detergent’s label to see its suitability for the type of fabric and color of the accessories. It is also important to remember that some fabric types can be sensitive to bleach therefore it should be avoided when washing you accessories.

  4. What washing cycle should I always use when washing my accessories? The best setting to use when washing accessories is a delicates or wool cycle, as this setting ensures that your delicate items are not too damaged while the cleaning process takes place.

  5. When washing accessories, how should I take care of the zipper? It is important to ensure that all zippers on the item you are washing are closed before washing. Where possible, it is also beneficial to turn the items inside out as this will protect the outer fabric from any damage or tarnishing.

Key Takeaways

  1. Check the labels on items to avoid washing those labelled ‘dry clean only’.
  2. Place delicate items in a mesh laundry bag or pillow case to avoid damage.
  3. Use a mild detergent and a low temperature for delicate fabrics & accessories.
  4. For weatherproof items like hats & gloves, avoid extreme temperatures & abrasive detergents.
  5. Iron & press items afterwards, or use a hand steamer, to keep them looking their best.