If poly pellets (small plastic beads often used as stuffing in stuffed toys or weighted blankets) have gotten loose in your washing machine, it's essential to take appropriate steps to remove them without causing damage to the machine. Here's what you can do:
Unplug the Washing Machine: Before attempting to remove the poly pellets, make sure the washing machine is unplugged from the power outlet to prevent any electrical hazards.
Remove Clothes and Excess Pellets: Take out any clothes or fabrics that were in the washing machine during the incident. Shake them off outside to remove any loose pellets.
Inspect the Drum: Look inside the washing machine drum to identify the extent of the poly pellet spillage. If there are only a few pellets, you may be able to remove them manually.
Vacuum: Using a handheld vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment, try to vacuum up as many poly pellets as possible from the drum and around the agitator (if your washing machine has one). Be gentle and avoid any excessive force that could damage the machine.
Inspect the Filter: Some washing machines have a filter or trap located near the water pump that catches debris. Consult your washing machine's user manual to locate and clean this filter. It may capture some of the loose poly pellets.
Run an Empty Cycle: Once you've removed as many pellets as possible, run an empty cycle on the hottest water setting with no detergent. This will help flush out any remaining pellets from the machine.
Check the Pump: If you suspect that some pellets may have made their way into the pump or drainage system, it's best to have a professional technician inspect and clean it. Trying to access the pump yourself can be challenging and may void the warranty.
Will this ruin the washing machine? In most cases, a few loose poly pellets are unlikely to ruin a washing machine, especially if you act quickly to remove them. However, if a significant number of pellets get trapped in critical components like the pump or motor, it could lead to issues over time. If you're concerned about potential damage, it's best to have a professional technician inspect the machine to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
In the future, to avoid similar incidents, consider using a laundry bag or mesh pouch when washing items containing poly pellets. This will help contain the pellets and prevent them from escaping into the washing machine.