The Top Laundry Items You Should Never Put in the Dryer

Not all laundry items are suitable for the dryer.

Some materials and fabrics are particularly sensitive to heat and can easily become damaged in the dryer. This can result in shrinkage, loss of shape, or even irreversible damage. To keep your clothes looking their best, your dryer running smoothly, and to protect the integrity of delicate fabrics, it’s important to know which items should be air-dried or dried using alternative methods. By following these guidelines, you’ll extend the lifespan of your clothes and maintain their quality. Below is a list of items that should stay out of the dryer, along with the reasons why.

1. Delicate Fabrics

Delicate fabrics like silk, lace, and fine knits require extra care to preserve their softness and shape. The heat from the dryer can damage these materials, causing them to shrink or lose their texture. For best results, air dry delicate fabrics flat or hang them up to maintain their quality.

2. Activewear and Sports Gear

Athletic wear, including leggings, gym clothes, and performance fabrics, often contain elastic or moisture-wicking materials that can lose their stretch or flexibility in the dryer. To avoid damaging the fabric, either air dry your activewear or use a no-heat drying setting if your dryer offers it.

3. Swimwear

Swimwear is designed with elastic bands and stretch materials that can lose their shape in the dryer. The heat can break down these fabrics, making them less effective over time. To keep your swimwear in good condition, air dry by laying it flat or hanging it up.

4. Leather, Faux Leather, and Suede

Natural leather, faux leather, and suede items can be seriously damaged by the dryer. The high heat can dry out the material, causing it to crack or become stiff. To protect your leather garments, air dry them away from direct heat sources. Avoid using the dryer altogether.

5. Backpacks, Lunch Bags, and Reusable Shopping Bags

Insulated bags, backpacks, and lunch bags should not be dried in the machine. The high heat can cause the outer materials to shrink, melt, or warp and can destroy the inner structure, especially for insulated or padded bags. Instead, wipe these items down and air dry them to preserve their shape and functionality.

6. Rubber-Backed Rugs and Mats

Rugs and mats with rubber backing should stay out of the dryer. The heat can cause the rubber to crumble, melt, or lose its grip, which affects the mat's durability and effectiveness. Allow these items to air dry to preserve their quality.

7. Foam Pillows or Cushions

Foam pillows and cushions are not dryer-friendly. The heat can deform or compress the foam, making it uncomfortable to use. To maintain their shape, air dry foam items or use a low-heat cycle if your dryer allows it.

8. Hosiery, Delicate Lingerie, and Bras

Hosiery, delicate lingerie, and bras are fragile and can easily stretch or snag in the dryer. The heat can also weaken the elastic fibers in these garments. It’s best to air dry these items by laying flat or hanging them up. For bras, hand washing and drying them in a way that maintains their shape and elasticity is the best way to extend their life.

9. Fur and Faux Fur

Both natural fur and faux fur are sensitive to heat and can lose their softness or shape in the dryer. The high heat can cause the fibers to fray or melt, and it may lead to clumping or shedding. To keep your fur items looking luxurious, allow them to air dry naturally. Gently brush faux fur items to restore their shape once dry.

10. Wool and Sweaters

Wool and knitted sweaters are prone to shrinking and losing their shape in the dryer. Heat can cause the fibers to tighten, leading to a much smaller garment. To keep wool sweaters soft and in good condition, reshape them gently and lay them flat to dry.

11. Sequined or Beaded Clothing

Clothing with sequins, beads, or other embellishments can get damaged in the dryer. The heat may cause these decorative items to loosen or fall off, ruining the look of the garment. Air dry or use a no-heat setting for delicate, embellished clothes.

12. Plastic Items

Items like shower curtains, raincoats, or plastic bags should never go into the dryer. The heat can warp, melt, or damage these materials, making them less effective and potentially causing a mess in your dryer. Instead, air dry plastic items by hanging them up.

13. Oily or Chemically Stained Fabrics

If your clothes are stained with oils, grease, or chemicals, avoid putting them in the dryer until the stain is completely gone. Heat can set the stain, making it more difficult to remove later. Treat stains first and allow the garment to air dry until it’s fully cleaned.

How Fresh Laundry Company Can Help

At Fresh Laundry Company, we understand that certain laundry items require extra care. You can trust us with your delicate and heat-sensitive garments. Simply bag these items separately and include any special drying instructions, such as "no heat dry," when placing your order. We’ll make sure your clothes are treated exactly the way you need.

Whether it’s wool sweaters, delicate fabrics, or items with embellishments, Fresh Laundry Company provides the professional care your clothes deserve. We are committed to keeping your items in top condition while offering the convenience you need.

By being mindful of what goes into the dryer, you can extend the life of your clothes and ensure they stay looking their best. If you need assistance with any special laundry care, don’t hesitate to reach out to Fresh Laundry Company—we’re here to help!