Essential Guide: Which Clothes Should Not Be Washed in a Machine?

Discover which fabrics and items should never go in the washing machine to avoid damage.

Published Jul 17, 2025

Overview

Understanding which clothes should not be washed in a machine is essential for maintaining the quality and longevity of your favorite garments. This informative video addresses common questions about laundry care, emphasizing the importance of checking care labels to prevent damage to delicate fabrics such as silk, lace, and wool. By learning how to properly care for your apparel, you can ensure they remain in great condition for years to come, making this topic highly relevant for anyone looking to enhance their wardrobe maintenance skills.

Video transcript

Certain clothes should not be washed in a machine to avoid damage. These include delicates like silk and lace, wool garments, sequined or beaded items, and bras with underwire. Always check the care labels, and for such items, hand washing or professional cleaning is recommended to maintain their quality and longevity.

Questions and answers

What types of clothes should I avoid washing in a washing machine?
You should avoid washing delicates such as silk and lace, wool garments, sequined or beaded items, and bras with underwire in a washing machine.
How can I clean delicate fabrics that can't be machine washed?
For delicate fabrics, it's best to hand wash them gently or take them to a professional cleaner to maintain their quality and longevity.
Why is it important to check clothing care labels?
Checking clothing care labels is important because they provide specific washing instructions that help prevent damage and ensure the longevity of the garment.
Can I wash my bras in the washing machine?
Bras with underwire should typically not be washed in the machine, as it can cause damage and affect their shape. It's better to hand wash them.