Is It Possible to Machine Wash Hand-Wash Clothes?

Don't let that "hand wash" tag on your more delicate apparel prevent you from taking a shortcut through the washing machine. While there are a few dangers to washing your hand-wash clothes in the washing machine, taking a few precautions enables you to skip the sink.

Risks

Keep in mind that washing machine use always poses a risk--if only a slight one. A loose agitator can damage clothes, and small items from previous loads can be overlooked resulting in color bleed.

Precautions

Inspect the washing machine for potential risks, and then turn your garments inside out. Place lingerie, hosiery and any other items made of thin material inside a mesh hosiery bag to protect them through the wash cycle.

Detergent

Stay away from powdered detergents that contain harsh enzymes. These could damage your fine clothes. Instead, use a liquid fabric wash especially formulated for delicate garments.

Wash Cycle

Wash cycles vary among washing machines. Choose the wash cycle that has the shortest wash available, and always use cold water to avoid color fading and shrinking. Often this is called the "delicates" cycle.

Drying

Keep your hand-wash garments away from powerful dryer heat and air-dry them instead. Lay them flat to dry in order to retain their shape. A drying rack is especially useful for this task.

References

• The Laundress: Washing Delicates