As we conclude our series on items you should never wash we turn our attention to those items that may seem like they could be machine washable. Previously we looked at items that you can't wash and items that no one intends to wash. Both of these types of items can cause damage to the washing machine and to your clothes. In some cases, washing a set of car keys or a pen in the pocket of your clothes can have long term impacts on your clothes and your washing machine. There are times when deciding what you can and cannot wash can be tricky. Here are some of our favorite laundry head-scratchers. Remember, these items should never go in the washing machine. If you need to buy commercial laundry equipment in Asheville, call T & L for big savings.
Embellished Clothing
If it has studs, sequins, fringe, or other embellishments that are sewn on or glued on avoid the temptation to throw the garment in the washing machine. Even if you turn the garment inside out, you still run the risk of damaging your embellished pieces. Keep these embellishments in place and looking great by taking your pieces to the dry cleaner or hand washing them.
Unzipped Zippers
Before you wash, zip up the zippers on jeans, jackets, and other clothing items. An open zipper in the washing machine can get caught on other clothes or on the agitator of the machine. If your clothes get caught on the agitator of the machine, they can be damaged or cause damage to the machine by becoming tangled around the agitator and preventing it from moving.
Rubber Items
The adhesive that holds your rubber backed bath mats together and other rubber items to your clothes is very temperature sensitive. When these items are in the machine, the heat generated by the cycle can cause the adhesive to break down or the rubber to melt. Some rubber backed rugs can take a trip through the machine on the gentle cycle. Check the care tag on your item to see if it's okay to put it in the washer. It is important to note that these items should never go in the dryer. They are hang to dry only.
Ties
It can be difficult to know what your favorite tie is made of or how to care for it. Most ties are made of silk or wool. Tossing them in the washing machine can lead to color loss, damage, and shrinkage. Taking them to the dry cleaner twice a year for freshening is a better way to keep them looking great.
Lace Items
Avoid ruining delicate pieces by putting them in the washing machine. Even a delicate wash cycle can spell trouble for your most delicate pieces. Instead, hand wash these items and lay them flat to dry. Use only cold water and a mild detergent. Be careful when choosing stain removing agents, some of these contain harsh chemicals that can deteriorate the quality of the lace.
Commercial Laundry Equipment in Asheville for 2019
For more than 40 years T & L Laundry Equipment has been helping laundromat owners stay ahead of their competition with the latest in industry news and the best commercial laundry equipment in Asheville. Call today and schedule an onsite visit with one of our laundry professionals and learn how we can help you take your business to the next level in 2019.
