When using a shared apartment washing machine or dryer, it's essential to be mindful of what items you should never put in them to avoid damage to the appliances and prevent accidents. Here's a list of items you should avoid putting in a shared washing machine or dryer:
Non-washable items: Read the care labels on clothing and other textiles to ensure they are suitable for machine washing. Delicate fabrics, materials like silk or wool, and certain decorations or embellishments may not be machine washable.
Sharp objects: Items with sharp or pointy parts, such as knives, scissors, or objects with metal components, can damage the drum or other parts of the machine.
Shoes and heavy boots: Washing shoes or heavy boots can damage the washing machine's drum and cause imbalance during the spin cycle.
Pet bedding: Pet bedding can contain hair, fur, and debris that might clog the washing machine's filter or create hygiene issues.
Large rugs or carpets: These can be too heavy and bulky for a standard washing machine and may cause damage or malfunctions.
Greasy or oily items: Items with heavy grease or oil stains, such as automotive rags or clothes, can leave residue in the machine and lead to an unpleasant odor.
Anything flammable or combustible: Avoid washing or drying items soaked in flammable substances, such as gasoline or solvents, as it can be dangerous.
Waterproof or water-resistant items with filling: Items like pillows, cushions, or jackets with filling may not dry properly and can become lumpy or damaged.
Delicate items: Lingerie with hooks or underwire bras can get tangled or damaged in the machine, as can other delicate fabrics like lace.
Items with strong dyes: New clothing with vibrant or unstable dyes might bleed color onto other items in the wash.
Electronics or items with batteries: Washing or drying electronics can ruin the devices and pose a safety hazard.
Very small items: Tiny items like baby socks or small toys can get trapped in the washing machine's pump or filter.
If you're unsure about whether a particular item can be washed or dried in a shared machine, it's best to consult the care label or ask the landlord or other tenants for guidance. Additionally, you can consider using a laundry bag or mesh laundry pouch for small or delicate items to keep them separate and protected during the washing process.