Can I Put Hand-Wash Clothes in the Washer?
Do you have clothing that is labeled as ‘hand-wash only’? Are you wondering if it is safe to put these items in a washing machine? Read on to learn all you need to know about washing hand-wash clothes in a washing machine.
What Do Hand-Wash Clothes Mean?
When an item is labeled “hand-wash only,” it means that the item is delicate and is shorter in length than regular clothing. These items are made from fragile fabric and require a gentler cleaning than what a washing machine can provide.
Can You Wash Hand-Wash Clothes in a Washing Machine?
Yes, if you’re careful enough. You should follow the instructions on the care label of the garment:
- Separate colors: Wash your hand-wash clothing with like colors. If the colors bleed and stain each other, you may have to have them professionally cleaned.
- Cold Water wash: Use cold water only when washing hand-wash clothing in the washing machine. Hot water can damage the fabric and cause it to shrink.
- Delicate cycle: Use the gentle cycle on your machine and don’t overload the washer. Excessive movement of the clothing can cause it to stretch and ruin the fabric.
- Light detergent: Use a mild laundry detergent when washing your hand-wash clothing and avoid any that contain bleach or other harsh chemicals.
- Hang dry: After washing in the washing machine, hang your items on a clothes line instead of machine drying them. Hang them away from direct sunlight to avoid fading.
Keep in mind that it may be best to avoid putting hand-wash clothing in a washing machine altogether. The safest option is to stick with hand-washing. If you do decide to put them in the machine, follow the care instructions carefully and carefully monitor the progress of the wash cycle.