7 Unexpected Items You Can Clean in Your Washing Machine

The invention of the washing machine drastically changed the efficiency of an essential household chore in modern households. Since the appliance was first introduced in the late 1800s, various prototypes have been created to develop the powerful, productive device we know today. Since over 80% of American households own a washing machine, it's easy to take them for granted.

More Than Clothes and Linens

Washing machines! Many people who own this luxurious appliance in their homes don't use it to its full potential. Despite popular belief, you can wash more than just clothes, towels, and sheets in your washing machine. Here are 7 surprising items you can toss in there next time you’re looking to clean these items!

Car Mats

Cars are another invention we use frequently, so keeping them nice and clean is essential. But what can you do when your toddler drops their ice cream cone, or you slam on your breaks, sending your soda can flying? You can easily throw car mats that aren't too bulky or heavy into your trusty washing machine.

Children's Toys

When a child becomes attached to a stuffed animal or toy, they want to take it everywhere. Watching their once-white teddy bear turn yellow and brown from dirt and grease can be gross. Using eco laundry sheets free of harmful chemicals is a great way to safely clean your little one's favorite toys. You can even wash plastic toys by placing them in a pillowcase or laundry bag.

Shoes

Believe it or not, you can throw shoes with certain materials like canvas or rubber into your washing machine. Try throwing that old pair of sneakers in with a few towels or thick pieces of fabric to keep obnoxious banging at bay. Alternatively, you can wrap them in a mesh bag. Air drying them is recommended.

Backpacks

Smelly gym bags or old backpacks can look brand new with just one wash cycle! Try turning the bag inside out to secure loose straps.

If you're feeling guilty for doing a few extra loads, detergent sheets are an excellent replacement for liquid detergent. Eco-friendly sheets for laundry from Purecise(™) are biodegradable and come in recyclable boxes.

Shower Curtain Liners

Instead of throwing away your shower curtain liner every few months, try throwing it in the wash with some baking soda and a towel or two. The liner will come out mildew and scrum-free, smelling good as new.

Leather Purses

Let's face it: the purse you've had for five years has seen better days. It may be time to try putting it through the wash. Using mild detergent sheets and a gentle wash cycle may help loosen grime and dirt build-up on your leather tote.

Yoga Mats

When's the last time you washed your sweaty yoga mat? If you said never, try throwing it in the wash! Using a delicate setting, throw your mat in the wash, letting it air dry after.

Clean Home, Clean Earth!

With so many more loads of laundry to do, you can help the environment by switching to eco laundry sheets. These low-waste products from Purecise(™) are vegan, cruelty-free, and highly effective. Throw your detergent sheets in with that unconventional load of laundry and let them do the work!