11 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Toss In the Washing Machine

Washing machines handle way more than just your clothes and towels. There’s a good chance you’ve been scrubbing things by hand or avoiding cleaning them altogether when your washer could do the hard work for you.

From everyday items you might not think twice about to household essentials that seem like a pain to clean, your washing machine can save you time and effort. Let’s talk about 11 surprising things you can toss in there to make your life a whole lot easier.

Bathtub Mats

While it’s easy to remember the bath mat on your floor, the one inside your tub often gets overlooked. Over time, soap scum and mildew can build up, making it a cleaning priority. Toss it in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with warm to hot water. This helps loosen all the grime without damaging the mat.

Once it’s clean, air dry it to keep its shape and prevent any wear. It’s a simple way to keep your tub fresh and safe.

Blender Gaskets

If you’ve ever cleaned a blender, you know the gasket can end up a sticky mess. Instead of scrubbing it by hand, pop it in the washing machine. A small laundry bag is perfect for this to prevent it from disappearing amidst your clothes.

This simple method gets into all those hard-to-reach spots, ensuring your blender is hygienic and ready for your next smoothie session.

Game-Ready Sports Equipment

After a long game or practice, fabric-lined gear like shin guards and elbow pads can get pretty gross. The washing machine makes cleaning them a breeze. Just close up any Velcro straps or zippers so they don’t snag on anything else, and use a lukewarm cycle to protect their shape.

Your gear will come out fresh, clean, and ready to tackle the next game without that funky post-practice smell.

Dish-Drying Mats

Dish-drying mats do a great job at soaking up water, but that same absorbent quality makes them prone to bacteria and mildew. Good news is, you can just toss them into the washing machine.

A high-speed spin cycle shakes out all that trapped moisture and helps them dry faster and cleaner.

Kitchen Rugs

Kitchen rugs can go from chic to shabby quickly with all the foot traffic and spills. Before they become a sore sight, throw them in the washing machine. Stick to a gentle cycle for small rugs, especially those without delicate materials or rubber backing.

Shower Liners

Shower liners can get grimy fast, but they don’t need to be tossed in the trash. Many are machine-washable, whether they’re polyester, nylon, or vinyl. Pop yours into the washer on a delicate cycle with warm water and a little detergent.

It’s a quick, easy way to keep your bathroom looking and feeling fresh without scrubbing for hours. Just hang it back up to dry and you’re good to go!

Lunch Bags

Reusable lunch bags are a lifesaver for both the environment and your wallet, but spills and food residue can make them less appealing over time. The good news? They can go right in the washing machine. Use a mild detergent to keep them in great shape and avoid any harsh chemicals. Once they’re clean, let them air dry to maintain their durability.

Backpacks

Backpacks go through a lot, whether they’re carrying school books or hiking gear. A good wash can bring them back to life, but take a few prep steps first. Empty every pocket, remove any pins or keychains, and turn the bag inside out.

For most canvas backpacks, the washing machine is totally fine—just use a gentle cycle. Always check the care tag to be sure, and let the bag air dry to avoid damage.

Kitchen Sponge

Kitchen sponges can be germ havens, especially when they start to smell. Don’t throw them out just yet—give them a wash instead. Place them in the washing machine along with your regular laundry and add a cup of vinegar during the rinse cycle.

This not only cleans but disinfects them, extending their life and ensuring they’re really cleaning your surfaces, not just wiping germs around.

Oven Mitts

Ever looked at your oven mitts after baking and thought about the hassle of cleaning them? Well, both cloth and silicone mitts can go right into the washing machine with your regular clothes.

Silicone mitts are particularly fuss-free—they’re designed to withstand heat and mess, making them perfect for a quick wash. It’s a hassle-free way to keep them ready for your next kitchen adventure.

Silicone Shelf Liners

Dealing with fridge spills can be less of a headache with silicone shelf liners, except when it comes time to clean them. They’re too bulky for the dishwasher and awkward to hand-wash. Next time, just toss them into the washing machine.

It’s an easy solution that cuts down on cleanup time, and you get clean, fresh liners without any scrubbing. Set the washer on a gentle cycle and you’re all set for a no-stress, clean fridge.