When it comes to laundry, there are some things that you know not to put in the dryer, like silk and leather. However, there are many more items that might seem like they would be okay to put in the dryer but that can actually cause a lot of damage or even pose a safety hazard. So to help you avoid damaging your dryer or your clothing, this article is here with a list of some items you should never put in the dryer!
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What Makes A Fabric Safe For The Dryer?
It is always important to be mindful of which fabrics you should never put in the dryer. Knowing which fabrics can withstand the dryer’s heat, agitation, and tumbling can help prevent damage to clothing and linens. Generally speaking, most synthetic fibers, such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic, are safe for the dryer. In addition, natural plant-based fibers like cotton and linen also tend to hold up well during a cycle in the dryer.
However, it would be best to air dry or professionally clean more delicate or specialty fabrics such as silk. Furthermore, it’s essential to read garment labels for instructions on whether or not an item will require special drying methods that could either damage or preserve its fabric integrity.
Tennis Shoes
Tennis shoes are comfortable, durable, and breathable, but that doesn’t mean they can withstand a trip through the dryer. The dryer’s heat will cause the materials to age rapidly, making them uncomfortable and structurally weak. On top of that, it can ruin the shoe’s shape and color. You’ll end up losing out on the value your tennis shoes offer if you don’t take proper care of them- not just in terms of longevity but also in style and wearability.
Even worse, they could seriously damage your dryer, primarily if it uses a heating element. The high temperatures can cause the rubber and synthetic materials to melt, potentially damaging the dryer or even causing a fire. So it’s best to just air-dry tennis shoes instead!
Swimwear And Bathing Suits
Another type of clothing that deserves special care is swimwear and bathing suits, especially nylon or spandex. The combination of heat and moisture can cause these materials to fade and lose their elasticity very quickly, which means that you lose a lot of the value of your swimsuit in terms of style and comfort.
Additionally, swimwear material is often relatively thin and lightweight, so it can easily get caught on the dryer’s drum or door. If you are not careful, this could cause rips or tears in your swimsuit- a big disappointment when you have spent money on an expensive new suit!
Beaded Clothing
Beaded clothing can add a spark of elegance and charm to any wardrobe, but unfortunately, it’s not built to last. Beads are delicate, and heat can cause them to melt, distort their shape, or detach them entirely. If beads are plastic or metal, such as brass or pewter, the clothes won’t just look bad -they may even become a fire hazard. Additionally, you risk damaging any fabric beneath them from the high temperatures of a dryer setting.
A dryer’s tumbling movement may also tear open seams that were weak before the laundry cycle began. To ensure your beaded clothing looks great and lasts for years, go for a cold water cycle and take extra care when handling it afterward, allowing it to hang dry and refrain from wringing out excess water, which may break threads or pull off loose beads.
Activewear
Washing activewear incorrectly can significantly reduce its lifespan. Many articles of athletic clothing consist of a combination of materials that contain blends of nylon and spandex, which are prone to shrinking and warping from the intense heat generated in the dryer. This can lead to an ill-fitting garment that will eventually lose its elasticity and feel much less comfortable than it did when you first bought it.
Another consideration is that excessively drying activewear can cause pilling, which makes the fabric look less attractive after multiple washings and develops an unpleasant odor that may be hard to get rid of. Therefore, it’s best to opt for a delicate cycle on your washing machine and then hang dry your activewear to avoid these issues!
Fur
Whether faux fur or a real fur coat, it is always best to avoid the dryer when caring for these items. The intense heat can cause the fabric of your fur to shrink and become misshapen or even melt entirely in the case of specific grades of faux fur. Additionally, a partial melting could leave an unpleasant odor in your dryer that you may struggle to eliminate.
It’s best to treat your fur items with special care to prevent any issues. Pay attention to the specific instructions on the tags and invest in a high-quality garment bag that you can use while storing them. If you truly want to dry your coat or jacket, opt for a low-heat setting and check on it frequently to prevent any damage from occurring.
Be Aware Of The Items You Should Never Put In The Dryer!
Although your dryer can be great for drying clothes quickly and efficiently, there are some items that you should never put in the dryer. From beaded clothing to activewear and fur coats, these items can be damaged or destroyed by high heat, making it important to air-dry them instead. Whether you need extra care when handling or washing these types of clothes or avoid the dryer altogether, it is essential to understand the risks of putting certain items in the dryer. By taking this advice into account, you can care for your clothing and keep them looking great!
