Handwashing clothes might feel a bit old-fashioned, but it’s the safest way to keep certain items looking new and fresh. Many pieces of clothing have labels reading “handwash only”—and for good reason. A washing machine can easily damage these delicate items or cause them to lose their shape. That’s why it’s important to know which specific types of clothing items you should handwash.
Delicate Fabrics
Silk, lace, and cashmere are beautiful but fragile materials. They require special care and attention, which is why it’s recommended that you handwash them. These delicate fabrics can easily shrink, snag, or lose their shape in a washing machine.
To keep them looking their best, fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of gentle detergent. Gently agitate the water with your hands and let the items soak for about 10–15 minutes before rinsing them thoroughly and laying them flat to dry.
Woolen Items
Wool sweaters and scarves can shrink or lose their shape in the machine, so it’s best to handwash these items. Use a gentle detergent and lukewarm water to soak wool clothing for about 5–10 minutes before gently squeezing out the excess water. Avoid rubbing or wringing the wool, as this can cause it to felt. Lay the items flat on a towel to dry and reshape them if needed.
Embellished Clothing
Do you know how to wash items with rhinestones or other delicate embellishments on them? Rhinestones, sequins, and beads can easily get caught or fall off in a washing machine. Handwashing ensures these decorative elements stay intact and your items continue to look glamorous.
Undergarments
You should handwash bras, lingerie, and delicate underwear to maintain their shape and prevent damage. Washing machines can easily stretch or damage the elastic bands on these items, but handwashing them will help them keep their form. Simply soak the undergarments in lukewarm water with mild detergent for about 10–15 minutes before rinsing them thoroughly and letting them air dry.
Swimwear
Swimwear, with its stretchy, synthetic fabric, also falls under the category of types of clothing items you should handwash. Chlorine from pools and salt from the ocean can be tough on swimwear. Handwashing these items in cool water with a gentle detergent will help remove residue without damaging the fabric. Hang your swimwear to dry away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Handwashing these specific types of clothing items may seem like extra work, but it’s worth the effort to keep them looking their best. Remember, a little bit of extra care goes a long way in maintaining your wardrobe.
