While the washing machine is a lifesaver, certain delicate and high-maintenance pieces should never take a spin in the wash. From fabrics that lose shape to items that can warp, shrink, or lose their shine, these are the fashion items that should always skip the washing machine.
1. Wool Sweaters
Wool sweaters can easily shrink, warp, or lose their softness in the washing machine. Wool fibers are highly sensitive to agitation, and the heat can ruin their shape and texture. Instead, hand-wash your wool items in cool water with a gentle detergent and let them air dry flat to keep them cozy and beautiful for future seasons.
2. Silk Blouses
Silk is a luxurious yet fragile fabric that doesn’t respond well to the rough tumbling of a washing machine. The fibers can snag or lose their luster, making your silk dull and damaged. Always hand-wash silk items in cold water with a mild detergent or take them to a professional cleaner to preserve their beauty and elegance.
3. Delicate Lace
Lace fabrics, especially intricate designs, can easily tear or fray in the washing machine. The fine details can get caught on other clothing or stretched out. To maintain their delicate structure, lace pieces should be hand-washed in cool water with a gentle detergent. Lay them flat to dry to avoid any stretching or distortion.
4. Cashmere
Cashmere is a luxury fabric that requires extra care, as it’s prone to shrinking and pilling. Washing cashmere in a machine can cause it to lose its softness and delicate structure. Instead, hand-wash cashmere in cool water with gentle soap, avoid wringing or twisting it and dry it flat to maintain its plush, cozy texture.
5. Embellished Garments
Garments with beads, sequins, or embroidery can get damaged or come loose in the washing machine. The tumbling action can pull off embellishments or distort the design. Hand-washing is best for these pieces, or use a garment bag on a delicate cycle if necessary, but air drying is key to preserving the intricate details.
6. Suede and Leather
Suede and leather items are extremely sensitive to water and can be permanently damaged in the washing machine. Water can cause discoloration, stiffness, and shrinkage in these materials. Always spot-clean small stains on leather or suede with a damp cloth, or take them to a specialist for proper cleaning to maintain their luxurious look and feel.
7. Velvet
Velvet’s soft, rich texture can get crushed and lose its luster in the washing machine. The agitation can flatten the fabric’s pile and ruin its luxurious appearance. To keep velvet items looking plush, stick to spot-cleaning or dry cleaning. A steamer can also help refresh the fabric without compromising its softness.
8. Delicate Undergarments
Delicate undergarments, especially those with lace or mesh, can easily lose shape, tear, or get tangled in the machine. The rough spin cycle can also damage elastic bands. To extend their life, hand-wash these items with a gentle detergent or use a mesh laundry bag on the delicate cycle and hang them to dry.
9. Structured Blazers
Blazers, especially those with structured shoulders or lining, should never enter the washing machine. The water and spinning motion can distort the blazer’s shape and ruin the lining. Take your blazers to the dry cleaner for the best results and to maintain their fit and structure over time.
10. Bras
Bras, especially underwire bras, should never be washed in the machine. The agitation can warp the underwire, damage the fabric, and reduce the elasticity. Hand-wash bras with a gentle detergent, or use a mesh bag if you must use the machine. Always lay them flat to dry to maintain their shape and support.
11. Delicate Scarves
Scarves made from delicate fabrics like silk, cashmere, or fine wool can easily lose shape, pill, or fray in the washing machine. For these items, hand washing in cool water is best. Avoid wringing out water; gently press it out with a towel and let the scarf air dry to preserve its softness and shape.
12. Satin Items
Satin fabric can snag, wrinkle, and lose its smooth finish in the washing machine. The machine’s tumbling easily damages the delicate weave. Instead, hand-wash satin pieces in cold water or have them dry-cleaned to keep the fabric glossy and smooth. Air drying is essential to avoid creases and preserve the fabric’s elegance.
13. Tights and Stockings
Tights and stockings are delicate and prone to snagging, tearing, or losing their elasticity in the washing machine. The mesh-like fabric can get tangled with other clothes, leading to tears. Hand-wash tights in cool water with gentle soap, and hang them to dry to keep them in mint condition.
14. Fleece Jackets
Washing fleece in a machine can cause it to pill, making it look worn out and rough. Over time, the fibers can lose their softness and insulating qualities. Hand-washing or washing fleece in a mesh bag on a gentle cycle can help preserve its softness. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat to maintain its plush feel.
15. Vintage Pieces
Vintage clothing, especially those made with delicate or unusual fabrics, can be irreversibly damaged in the washing machine. These pieces often have unique weaves and dyes that require gentle care. To preserve their timeless beauty, hand-wash vintage items in cold water with a mild detergent or take them to a professional cleaner who specializes in delicate fabrics.