10 things you forget you can put in the washing machine

You know to wash your white towels on a hot setting and to use delicates bags for your underthings, but what other items can you chuck into your trusty washing machine? As it turns out, plenty of non-clothing items can (and should!) be cleaned on laundry day. 

1. Plastic shower curtains

There’s no reason you can’t toss both your shower curtain and liner in the washing machine. Use the sight-and-smell method to determine how regularly. If they look clean, wash every month or two to refresh. If they look mouldy or smell musty, do it more often. Add two or three soiled towels to help dislodge the dirt. 

2. Insulated lunch boxes 

When they’re looking a bit grubby (or smelling a bit stinky), simply toss them into the machine on a 30C to 40C wash. They dry relatively quickly, so you can wash them on the weekend for use again on Monday.

3. Yoga mats

Given how often you tote around your yoga mat and plop it on the gym floor, these guys are a hotbed for contamination, carrying fungi, bacteria, viruses and more. Studies show they’re even dirtier than airplane seats! Throw your mat into the washing machine with some mild detergent and wash using a delicate cycle. 

4. Sneakers

Only machine wash your canvas, nylon and woven sneakers – keep your suede and leather kicks out of there! Take the laces out and place them in a mesh laundry bag to prevent them scuffing and damaging the drum of the washing machine, then put on a cold setting with the regular amount of detergent and a dash of vinegar to deodorise. Throw in a few towels, too, if you’re wary of the noise. Allow to air dry with newspaper stuffed into the body to help them retain their shape. 

5. Car mats

Vacuum first to get rid of dirt and debris before throwing into the wash on a cold delicates cycle. Don’t launder too often, as it will wear away at the rubber backing.  

6. Small toys 

And we’re not just talking about stuffed animals – though they do well on a cold-water rinse. Throw pet balls and even LEGO and DUPLO pieces into a delicates bag or closed pillowcase and put on a cool, delicate cycle. Then leave the house – it’s noisy!  

7. Canvas grocery bags

They go from the inside of your shopping trolley to the boot of your car to your kitchen counter, and also come into contact with your food – think about how many gross things cling on along the way!  Toss them into your washing machine and launder in hot water to avoid contamination.  

8. Pet beds

As much as you love your four-legged friends, they have the tendency to make their sleep space a bit whiffy. Harmful disease-spreading microbes can live up to 12 months without a host. Thankfully, most pet beds are machine washable and allow you to separate the inner from the outer. Launder separately with regular detergent on a cold wash. Bedding should be washed at least once a week – depending on how much he slobbers! And why not toss in (non-leather) leashes and collars while you’re at it?

9. Sports gear

Got sweaty shin guards, gloves, knee, elbow and shoulder pads? Throw them into the washing machine on a regular cycle at least once a month. Close any Velcro straps before you start and place in a delicates bags or pillowcase, using half your usual amount of wool wash. Baseball caps can also be tossed in, after you treat the sweaty inside with stain remover spray. 

10. Mop heads

When was the last time your mop got a good clean? Can’t remember? Remove the head and throw it into the wash now! Place it into an old pillowcase and tie it tight with a rubber band to avoid tangling. Use a delicate cycle and the lowest spin speed. When done, leave to dry completely, hanging it upside down in the sun to discourage growth of mould and mildew.