Save Your Laundry Machine Keep These Items Out
Simple tips to keep your washer safe and long-lasting
Your washing machine is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. It handles load after load without complaint, but many people unknowingly throw things in that slowly destroy the machine from the inside. From forgotten coins to overstuffed rugs, the wrong items can break the drum, clog the pump, or burn out the motor. Protecting your washer isn’t complicated; it’s just about knowing what never belongs inside.
In this guide, we’ll cover the everyday mistakes people make with laundry machines and the hidden items that cause damage over time. You’ll learn which items to avoid, why they’re harmful, and what you can do instead to extend the life of your appliance.
1. Common household items that damage your laundry machine
Coins and small metal objects
Dropping coins into the wash may seem harmless, but over time, they cause serious issues. Loose change bounces around the drum, scratches the stainless steel, and can slip into the drain pump. Once stuck, coins create rattling noises, clogging, and even pump failure. Some people don’t realize the damage until the washer stops draining altogether. The repair cost for a blocked pump can easily outweigh the habit of quickly checking your pockets. Keeping coins out of your washer isn’t just about machine health; it also prevents accidental dents in clothing fibers. A good practice is holding a small tray near your laundry area to empty pockets before starting a load.
Keys, screws, and sharp hardware
Keys and small screws are another hidden culprit that shortens the lifespan of your laundry machine. Their sharp edges can tear through clothes, scratch the drum, and puncture the rubber seal around the door. Once the seal is compromised, you’ll notice leaks during wash cycles. Worse, these metal items can get stuck in the agitator or drum holes, leading to grinding noises or motor strain. If you work in construction or carry tools regularly, double-check your pants before washing. It’s an easy step that saves your machine from expensive repairs. Even a single forgotten key can do surprising damage.
Pet hair and heavy lint buildup
Many people toss pet blankets and lint-heavy clothing into the washer without thinking twice. The problem is that pet hair clumps and lint fibers don’t dissolve in water. Instead, they build up in the filter, drain, and rubber gasket. Over time, this restricts water flow and causes foul odors. In severe cases, pet hair combined with detergent creates a sticky paste that blocks the pump entirely. If you share your home with pets, use a lint roller on blankets before washing or run a pre-rinse outside. Cleaning the filter monthly is also essential to keep your machine running smoothly.
2. Clothing mistakes that ruin the washing drum and motor
Overloaded laundry loads
Overstuffing your washing machine may feel like a time saver, but it puts extreme stress on the motor and bearings. A heavy, uneven load makes the drum spin off balance, which leads to banging noises and vibration during the spin cycle. This not only shortens the motor’s lifespan but can also damage the suspension system. Overloading also prevents clothes from being cleaned properly because water and detergent can’t circulate evenly. A better approach is splitting loads into smaller batches and leaving space in the drum for movement. If you consistently overload, you’ll likely need costly motor or bearing replacements sooner than expected.
Heavy rugs and mats
Washing heavy rugs and mats in a home machine is one of the fastest ways to burn out a motor. These items soak up water, becoming extremely heavy and unbalanced during spin cycles. The weight pulls on the drum, strains the suspension, and can even crack the outer tub. Some mats also have a rubber backing that flakes off, clogging the filter. If you need to wash rugs, check the manufacturer’s tag first. Often, they recommend professional cleaning or using a commercial-grade machine. A home washer isn’t designed for these loads, and forcing it leads to early breakdowns.
Unzipped jackets and clothing with metal trims
Zippers, hooks, and metal trims may look harmless, but they act like sandpaper inside the drum. When left unzipped, jackets can snag delicate fabrics and scratch the washer’s glass door. Sharp trims can also chip enamel from the drum or create loud clanging that damages internal components. The solution is simple: zip up clothing, turn items inside out, and use laundry bags for anything with metal edges. Taking these precautions not only protects your machine but also extends the life of your clothes. A few seconds of prep work saves you from long-term machine repairs.
3. Cleaning products and chemicals that shorten machine life
Too much detergent or fabric softener
Most people believe more soap equals cleaner clothes, but that’s not true for washing machines. Excess detergent creates buildup inside the drum and hoses, leading to clogs and musty odors. Fabric softener also leaves a waxy residue that coats the machine’s interior and reduces efficiency. Over time, this buildup encourages mold growth and can trigger drainage problems. The solution is measuring carefully and using only the recommended amount. High-efficiency washers require far less detergent than traditional ones, and ignoring this guideline causes costly maintenance issues. Always remember that less is more when it comes to laundry products.
Bleach misuse and overuse
Bleach is powerful, but it’s not meant for every load. Using too much bleach or adding it directly to clothing can eat away at the drum’s surface and rubber gaskets. Over time, you’ll notice cracks, leaks, and a weakened machine structure. Bleach also reacts poorly with metal parts inside the washer, leading to corrosion. The right way to use bleach is to dilute it properly and only when needed. For regular cleaning, run a hot maintenance cycle with vinegar instead. This is much safer for your washer and still keeps bacteria under control.
Harsh stain removers and DIY chemical mixes
Mixing harsh stain removers or creating DIY cleaning cocktails might seem clever, but they often do more harm than good. Strong chemicals break down seals, hoses, and the machine’s plastic components. DIY mixes with vinegar and bleach are especially dangerous since they release toxic fumes and accelerate corrosion. Instead of gambling with chemicals, use laundry-safe stain removers and pretreat clothes before washing. If a stain is stubborn, soaking the garment separately is safer than introducing untested chemicals into your washer. Protecting your machine from chemical abuse saves you from repairs and helps clothes last longer, too.
4. Forgotten objects in pockets that cause major damage
Pens and markers are leaking ink
Everyone has accidentally washed a pen at some point, but the consequences go far beyond stained clothes. When a pen explodes in the washer, the ink coats the drum and spreads to every other garment in the load. The ink residue is extremely difficult to remove and can permanently damage both clothes and the washer’s finish. Markers and gel pens are even worse since they contain heavy pigments that stick to metal surfaces. Always check pockets thoroughly before loading the machine. Keeping a small dish for emptying pockets is a simple habit that prevents major messes.
Makeup and cosmetics containers
Small makeup items like lipsticks, mascara, and foundation tubes often sneak into pockets or bags that get washed. Once inside the machine, these products melt, smear, and clog the filter. Lipsticks, in particular, contain oils that stick to the drum and create long-lasting stains. Powder makeup cakes into clumps that block drainage. Beyond damaging clothes, these cosmetics leave your washer smelling terrible. To avoid this, always check jackets, bags, and laundry baskets for hidden cosmetics. Setting a routine pocket check prevents costly mistakes and keeps your laundry machine in top condition.
Cell phones, earbuds, and electronics
Electronics are the most devastating forgotten items in the wash. A phone or earbuds can not only destroy themselves but also damage your machine. The batteries inside swell or leak, releasing chemicals into the drum and hoses. These substances corrode metal, weaken seals, and contaminate the washer. Recovering from this kind of damage is difficult and often means replacing the machine. The best prevention is creating a habit of checking every pocket, especially jeans and jackets, before tossing clothes inside. Saving a few minutes is worth avoiding hundreds of dollars in damage.
5. Long-term habits to protect and extend your machine’s life
Running regular maintenance cycles
One of the simplest ways to keep your washing machine in good shape is to run a maintenance cycle. Using hot water and a bit of vinegar or baking soda helps dissolve detergent buildup and prevent mold growth. Doing this once a month keeps the interior fresh and avoids lingering odors. It also clears residue that can damage hoses and pumps over time. Some modern machines even have a self-clean setting, which should be used regularly. A few preventative steps go a long way in extending the lifespan of your washer.
Cleaning the filter and rubber gasket
The filter and gasket are two of the most neglected parts of a washing machine. The filter traps lint, hair, and small objects, and if ignored, it eventually clogs. This leads to poor drainage and pump strain. The rubber gasket around the door collects moisture, detergent, and dirt, which quickly turns into mold. Wiping it after each cycle and deep-cleaning monthly prevents buildup. Taking ten minutes to handle these tasks keeps your washer running efficiently and saves you from costly repairs. It’s a habit worth building into your cleaning routine.
Using proper laundry bags for delicate or risky items
Laundry bags are a simple but powerful tool for protecting both clothes and your washer. Delicate items like lingerie, small socks, or anything with zippers belong inside a bag. This prevents them from tangling, snagging, or slipping into the drain. Laundry bags also help contain pet hair, reducing filter clogs. Investing in a few quality mesh bags can save you hours of frustration and machine wear. They’re affordable, reusable, and a must-have for anyone serious about protecting their laundry appliance.
Conclusion
Your washing machine is built to last, but only if you treat it with care. The wrong items, from coins to chemicals, slowly wear it down until it fails. By avoiding these common mistakes and adopting better habits, you’ll save money, protect your clothes, and extend the life of your machine. Treat your washer like the investment it is, and it will serve you for many years to come.
FAQs
What should I do if I accidentally wash coins?
Stop the cycle, remove the coins, and check the filter for blockages. If rattling noises continue, call a technician.
Can pet hair damage a washing machine?
Yes, pet hair clumps together and blocks the filter, pump, and hoses, leading to poor performance. Always remove as much hair as possible before washing.
Is it safe to wash rugs in my home machine?
No, most rugs are too heavy when wet and can overload the drum. Use a commercial-grade washer or professional cleaner instead.
How often should I run a maintenance wash?
Once a month is recommended to keep the drum clean, prevent odors, and maintain efficiency.
Do zippers really damage washing machines?
Yes, unzipped zippers scratch the drum, damage seals, and snag clothing. Always zip them before washing.
Can bleach ruin my washer?
Excessive or undiluted bleach corrodes metal and rubber components. Use sparingly and only as directed.
What’s the best way to prevent pocket items from being washed?
Check all pockets before loading clothes. Keeping a dish near the laundry basket helps as a reminder.
Specialized cleaning services tailored to your home
Our services are designed to fit the unique needs of every household. For families needing flexibility, our full or part-time housekeeper services provide dedicated help on your schedule. Whether you need daily upkeep or weekly care, our trained staff ensures a spotless home while you focus on what matters most.
Seasonal cleaning can be a heavy task, especially when dirt and clutter build up over months. That’s where our spring cleaning services come in. With deep-clean techniques and thorough attention to detail, we refresh your home from top to bottom, making it bright and welcoming again.
Discover more home care tips
If you’re serious about keeping your home in top shape, explore our other helpful guides. Learn about the mistakes you should avoid in what you should never do in home cleaning, or tackle bathroom mold with our fast solutions in quick ways to eliminate mold and mildew in bathrooms. For electronics care, check out our advice on computer screen cleaning tips to keep your devices crystal clear.