Never put these things through the dryer
Oct 31, 2024
NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — Dryers don't just tumble clothes until they're dry anymore, they're packed with advancements like energy-saving technologies and smart features that connect to Wi-Fi.
However, not everything can take the heat of a dryer, even in a cool setting. Some things can shrink, warp, or even be ruined.
The experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have a list of things that are better off being dried in some other way.
Bras are the number one thing to never throw in the dryer — they're called delicates for a reason. To get them to dry, they should be laid out flat.
Tights are another delicate item that the dryer can damage. These should be hand-washed and either hung or laid flat to dry.
Swimsuits, which are made of spandex, shouldn't be in the dryer because the temperature can compromise the fabric. They should be washed in cold water with mild detergent, rinsed, with extra water squeezed out, and then air dried.
Sweaters, especially if they're wool or cashmere, should avoid the dryer at all costs. These should be hand-washed with gentle detergent, rinsed well, and laid flat to dry.
Bath and door mats with rubber backing shouldn't be tossed in the dryer since the heat can cause damage, causing the rubber to crumble. They should be washed on a gentle cycle with warm water and then air dried.
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Any clothing that has any sort of embellishment should avoid dryers since they could snag and damage the item. It's best to hang them, but if the material is thin or delicate, lay them on a towel to air dry.
Shoes are something that should always be cleaned by hand — washers and dryers can cause them to shrink or warp, plus ruin the cushioning and weaken adhesives.
Depending on the material, backpacks and lunch bags can be put through the washer, but they shouldn't run through the dryer. It's best to blot them with a dry towel and then hang them upside down to air dry.
Canvas bags that are reusable are okay in dryers, but plastic or nylon ones shouldn't be in the washer or dryer.
Activewear, like leggings and sports bras, is similar to swimsuits. Some brands will recommend using a low-heat tumble dry, but it's still best to lay them flat.
Leather, faux leather, and suede are all materials you shouldn't attempt to launder. The heat can cause the fabric to melt or crack. They should be professionally cleaned, especially if they're more expensive items like jackets or pants.
While some silk items are okay to be hand-washed, they should always be air-dried.
Tumble-drying faux fur can lead to matting and clumping. Instead, remove the water by wrapping it in a towel, gently squeezing it, and placing it on a rack to air dry.
In the end, you should always read the care tag, especially for something you haven't washed before. There's always a good reason for air drying or dry cleaning.
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