Laundry experts warn that you shouldn’t dry these items in the dryer if they are likely to cause damage
Although tumble dryers are among the most useful household appliances, they can be dangerous if misused.
Throwing everything in the dryer and hoping for the best can be tempting. However, experts recommend that you understand your tumble dryer’s and temperature guides’ settings.
BY CHIANA DICKSON, PUBLISHED JANUARY 14, 2023
Although tumble dryers are among the most useful household appliances, they can be dangerous if misused.
Throwing everything in the dryer and hoping for the best can be tempting. However, experts recommend that you understand your tumble dryer’s and temperature guides’ settings.
These are six things that should never be dried in a tumbler.
What to Avoid in a Tumble Dryer
Professional cleaner Marv, who owns Marvcleaning (opens in new window), says that dryers can be a convenient and effective way to dry clothes. However, it is essential to understand what items are not allowed to go in dryers. Incorrect use of dryers can cause damage to dryers and even fires. These guidelines will help you prolong the life of your dryer while keeping your home safe.
Dryers are a significant source of house fires. To ensure your dryer does not cause problems (either by breaking down or starting fires), Tim Jankowski, president of Aladdin’s Cleaning & Restoration, advises that you don’t put any plastic or rubber items in your dryer.
Marv, the owner of Marvcleaning, adds that rubber-backed shower curtains, bath mats, and plastic clothing such as raincoats are to be avoided. We advise customers to check the labels and laundry symbols to ensure that clothes dry safely.
Some kitchen rugs and bathroom rugs can be machine washed, but they are not suitable to tumble dry. It is possible to avoid damage by learning how to identify.
Marv, the owner of Marvcleaning, says that it is essential to remember that chemically treated garments should not be dried in the dryer. These can cause dryer damage and release toxic fumes. This includes clothes that have been dry-cleaned, treated with fabric softeners or stain removers, or any other chemical.
Items with foam padding or stuffing shouldn’t be dried in the dryer. Puffy jackets, sleeping bags, and stuffed animals can cause dryer damage. We recommend that customers air dry or place these items in a laundry bag before placing them in the dryer.
A buildup of lint from clothing and stuffed toys are the leading cause of dryer fires. You can avoid drying stuffed toys, and learning how a dryer vent properly can help you relieve stress.
It is not recommended to dry items that have been contaminated with oil or grease. These could cause damage to the dryer’s heating element or even ignite a fire. These could be rags you used to clean, particularly in an oven or garage. We recommend that customers wash these items separately using a detergent designed to remove grease and oil.
