12 Surprising Things You Can Wash in the Washing Machine, From Sneakers to Yoga Mats

Let's face it: If you had to hand-wash or scrub everything, you'd probably get much less cleaning done around the house. The easiest way to clean many items in your home is by tossing them in the washer and letting the appliance do the work for you. And while you may do just that when it comes to clothes, towels, bedding, and table linens, don't overlook the full potential of your washing machine. According to cleaning experts, there are many unexpected ways to use this appliance. Ahead, we're sharing some of the surprising household items experts say you can clean in your washing machine.

Pillows

Pillows should be cleaned every three to six months to remove mold, bacteria, and odors. Whether yours are made of natural fibers (like down) or synthetic materials (like polyester), most pillows can be washed in the machine.

Cushion Covers

Cushion covers get dirty over time from frequent use, but if yours are removable, chances are you can clean them in the washer. Cushion covers made from cotton, linen, denim, chino, and hemp are typically washable, says Patric Richardson, textile expert and author of the book Laundry Love. Follow the label and hang until just damp. Put back on furniture to dry and let wrinkles fall out.

Pet Beds

Your four-legged friend needs a clean place to sleep at night, too, which is why many pet beds are machine-washable. First, make sure the bedding base cushion can be cleaned in the washer. Then, wash both the fabric lining and the cushion in the machine. It's best to wash these two pieces separately from the rest of your laundry, unless it's with like colors.

Backpacks

Whether it's worn from hiking mountains or trekking to and from school, a working backpack needs cleaning. Generally, machine-washing works best for canvas bags, but be sure to check the tag for additional guidance and spot-test your detergent for discoloration. Remember to empty the pockets, turn the backpack inside out, and remove key chains, patches, pins, and other embellishments.

Sports Equipment

Fabric-lined protective gear (shin guards, elbow pads, kneepads, etc.) needs a good, thorough cleaning after game day and doing so in your washer is the easiest method. First, be sure to close velcro straps and zippers to avoid snagging, and use a lukewarm cycle to prevent disfiguring the structure of the items.

Sneakers

If your sneakers look worse for wear, toss them in the washer for a quick clean. To do so, pull out the laces and put the shoes in the washer. Wash in cold water and air-dry. Place the laces into a mesh bag and toss them in, too. If they're really dirty, give your shoes a quick scrub with a toothbrush dunked in distilled white vinegar and water, then wash.

Rugs

The areas near your front door and hallway see the most grime from foot traffic, which makes cleaning the protective mats and rugs you put in these spaces important. These items will have different cleaning specifications depending on the material, so check the care tag first. Generally, most washable rugs and runners can can go in. (Sisal and natural weaves should never be machine washed).

Yoga Mats

Give rubber yoga mats a deep clean by running them through a delicate cycle with a small amount of detergent. Then air-dry indoors or out of the sun, says Cristie Newhart, dean of the Kripalu School of Yoga. For other materials, check with the manufacturer.

Shower Liners

While many people already know they can clean their shower curtain in the washer, your liner may be machine-washable, too. Generally, polyester, nylon, and vinyl liners can be cleaned in a delicate cycle with warm water and a few drops of detergent.

Stuffed Toys

They get a lot of love from your kids, but stuffed toys look less than lovable when covered in bacteria and grime. You can toss soft ones, like a plush teddy bear, in the machine using a delicate cycle—as long as there are no excessive embellishments sewn on the outside or musical machinery inside the stuffing.

Hats and Scarves

Like other items that touch your skin and hair, hats and scarves accumulate body oils that can degrade their fabric. Aim to clean them every three or so wears, like almost everything else in your wardrobe. Again, check the care tag; Richardson advises washing them on a gentle cycle zipped inside a tight-fitting mesh bag.

Pot Holders

Pot holders accumulate a lot of grease and grime from repeated use in the kitchen. Throw them in the washing machine with other same-color items. If a mitt is especially dirty, spray it with distilled white vinegar, then rinse and launder it separately.