10 Things I’ve Learned You Should Never Put In the Dryer

The dryer is great for most things, but I’ve learned the hard way that not everything benefits from a tumble in this warm whirlwind. Some items just can’t handle the heat and the rumble, leading to damage that’s often beyond repair.

Through trial and error, I’ve put together a list of 10 things that should steer clear of the dryer to help you keep your favorite items in top shape.

Leather, Faux Leather, and Suede

If you cherish your leather, faux leather, or suede items, keep them far from your washer and dryer. The ordeal can end disastrously with these materials—think melted finishes and cracked textures. Seriously, I learned my lesson with a favorite jacket.

For these special pieces, especially the structured or pricier ones, it’s worth taking them to a professional cleaner. They have the right tools and expertise to handle them properly without the heartbreak of damage.

Silk

Silk is delicate and demands care, even more than your average fabric. While some silk items can handle a gentle hand wash, drying them is another story. Never wring them out or hang them up; that’s just asking for misshapen disasters.

Instead, lay the washed item on a clean towel, roll it up to press out the excess water gently, and then lay it flat to dry, away from direct sunlight. This method helps maintain the shape and sheen of the silk.

Reusable Grocery Bags

Let me share a little tip about cleaning those reusable grocery bags. While your sturdy canvas ones might handle a trip through the washer and dryer, don’t toss your recycled plastic and nylon bags in there.

The heat can warp them or even melt the material. Instead, wash these bags gently by hand using warm, soapy water and then hang them up to dry.

Activewear

Anyone who’s invested in good workout clothes knows the pain of seeing them lose their fit and function. Tossing activewear like leggings and sports bras into the dryer can really shorten their lifespan by damaging the elastic and ruining those moisture-wicking properties we all appreciate. Even if the tag says low-heat tumble dry is okay, I’ve found it’s safer to air dry or lay them flat.

Running Shoes

Take it from someone who’s wrecked a good pair of running shoes—keep them out of your washer and definitely out of your dryer. The intense heat and tumbling can deform the shape, mess with the cushioning, and weaken the glue that holds everything together.

Instead, after knocking off the dirt, give them a gentle scrub with soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and stuff them with paper towels to help them keep their shape as they dry. Even comfy HeyDudes should steer clear of the dryer to stay in top shape.

Backpacks and Lunch Bags

I once made the mistake of tossing a backpack into the dryer and, let’s just say, it wasn’t pretty. While some backpacks and lunch bags might survive a gentle cycle in the washing machine, the dryer is a different story.

The high heat can damage the material and warp the structure. After washing, blot them with a dry towel and hang them upside down to air dry in a well-ventilated area.

Sweaters

I learned a hard lesson when my favorite wool sweater shrunk in the dryer—it looked perfect for a doll, not me. Wool and cashmere are particularly sensitive to heat and agitation.

To keep them looking and feeling luxurious, hand-wash them gently with a mild detergent and lay them flat to dry. This method helps maintain their shape and softness. Really, who wants to turn their cozy sweater into a mini version of itself?

Rubber-backed Rugs

If you’ve ever pulled a rubber-backed rug from the dryer only to find the backing cracked and peeling, you know why this is a no-go. These mats, whether they’re for the bath or to greet guests at your door, need a gentler approach.

Wash them on a gentle cycle with warm water and skip the dryer altogether. Hanging them up to air dry will preserve the rubber, ensuring the rug stays slip-resistant and intact. Trust me, it’s worth the extra drying time!

Bras

Take it from me, if you’ve ever felt the betrayal of a bra’s underwire poking you after a tumble in the dryer, you’ll never make that mistake again. Bras are delicate beasts, best laid flat to dry to preserve their shape and integrity. The heat and aggressive tumbling action can wreak havoc on their elasticity and overall structure.

It’s not just about comfort; it’s about making those pricey pieces last longer. So, next time, let them air dry—it really does extend their life and save you from unexpected pokes and prods!

Swimsuits

Here’s a heads up from someone who learned the hard way: keep your swimsuits far away from the dryer. Made mostly of spandex, these items are particularly vulnerable to high heat, which can break down the fabric’s stretchiness over time.

Instead, wash them gently in cold water with a mild detergent, squeeze out the excess, and let them air dry. This method not only protects the material but also avoids the frustration of reshaping misshapen padding