Many people tend to throw everything that needs washing into the washing machine without realizing that this can not only lead to poor cleaning results but also cause quick wear and tear on clothes, reduce the lifespan of the machine, and even lead to fire hazards.

The washing machine is a helpful tool that saves time and effort in laundry chores. However, not everything can be “thrown” into the washing machine without consequences. Some items not only don’t get cleaned properly but also can damage the machine, cause a fire risk, or affect your health. Here are five things you should avoid putting into the washing machine:

1. Shoes
   Many people casually throw their shoes into the washing machine, but this is a big mistake. Sneakers, leather shoes, or shoes with high heels and metal embellishments not only don't get cleaned well but also dirty the drum, lose their shape, and can harm the machine. The weight of wet shoes can damage the spinning drum, increasing the risk of malfunction or even a fire. Moreover, bacteria like E. coli or Staphylococcus aureus from the shoes can transfer to other clothes, posing health risks. It's best to wash shoes by hand or take them to a specialized laundry service.

2. Rubber Pillows, Down Pillows, or Herbal Pillows
   Not all pillows are suitable for machine washing. Pillows made from rubber, herbs, or down can become deformed, crumble, or lose quality when machine-washed. The water and detergent may not completely rinse out, leading to bacteria and mold buildup, which can cause allergies or respiratory issues. If washed with clothes, the risk of cross-contamination is even higher. Instead of machine washing, gently hand wash the pillow or take it to a professional cleaning service.

3. Clothing or Accessories with Metal, Buttons, or Decorative Beads
   Items like dresses with metal embellishments, large buttons, or decorative beads can easily come off during the washing process. These can scratch the drum, clog the pipes, or tear other garments. More dangerously, metal accessories can damage internal machine parts, leading to electrical shorts or water leaks, and even fire hazards. It’s best to remove accessories before washing or opt for hand washing to ensure safety.

4. Heavy or Large Comforters
   Large cotton or wool blankets, when soaked with water, become very heavy, often exceeding the load capacity of home washing machines. This overload can cause the machine to function improperly, fail to clean thoroughly, and damage the motor or the spinning drum, potentially leading to electrical shorts. The inner cotton of blankets can shift, ruin the structure, or clog the drum. For safety and efficiency, take large blankets to an industrial laundry service.

5. Down Jackets
   Down jackets are not suitable for home washing machines. The washing process can cause the down feathers to clump together, reducing the jacket’s ability to retain warmth and destroying the jacket's structure. Leftover detergents can irritate the skin, while loose feathers or fabric pieces can clog the machine's drainage system, leading to malfunctions or fire risks. To protect your jacket, you should hand wash it or use a dry cleaning service.