16 Things You Should Never Put In The Dryer

Although we might be living our best technology-assisted lives these days, sometimes it’s worth remembering that some modern conveniences aren't always better than the old-fashioned methods—and you don't have to look much further than the laundry room for proof. Modern day washer and dryers might be more well-equipped with specialty settings and cycles than ever before, but there are still some things it just can’t do. 

While it might be less convenient to air dry part of your load of laundry (especially if you don’t have a spacious laundry room), avoiding shrunken sweaters and quickly worn-out clothing are worth it. There are certain fabrics, materials, and items that are best dry cleaned or hand washed and laid flat or hung to dry. Just as there are plenty of things not to put in the washer (looking at you, sequins), there are also plenty of items that should never go in the dryer. Here are 16 things you should avoid putting in the dryer.

Swimsuits

It can be tempting to just toss your favorite swimwear in the dryer, especially if they’re damp when you’re quickly trying to get to the pool or beach, but your bikinis will thank you for resisting the urge. The spinning and heat of the dryer can stretch out your swimsuits causing them to be droopy and not last as long. Always hang them to dry—inside or out!

Hats

While baseball caps aren’t an everyday laundry item, they do need to be washed every so often—especially if you wear them to workout or when sweating. Instead of tossing your lucky hat in the wash, spot clean it with soapy water then let it air dry.

Sweaters

When in doubt, always check the tag for cleaning instructions. Regardless of what material your sweater is made from, because they are typically made from knitted yarns, they can lose their shape if washed and dried improperly. Not only might they shrink from the heat, but the dryer also increases pilling.

Athletic Shoes

There’s no question about it that your well-worn running shoes can and should be washed occasionally to keep them clean and not stinky, but it’s always best to skip the dryer which can cause shoes to lose their shape, warp, or even fall apart. Instead, allow them to air dry in direct sunlight or near a heat source.

Lingerie

While your day-to-day items might not require special care, many undergarments are often made from materials that are best left out of the dryer. Any bras, underwear, or lingerie that has elastic, spandex, lace, or lycra can be ruined by the heat and should be hung to dry. They generally should also be hand-washed or placed in a lingerie bag and washed on the delicate cycle to maximize their lifespan.

Garments with Embellishments

From delicate beading or sequined details to hand stitching, anything with these embellishments is better off hung to dry. Not only might the clothing item be damaged, but the embellishments can get caught in the nooks and cranny of the dryer or snag other items. And if the elements are glued on, the dryer is likely to cause the glue to melt. Let these style garments dry naturally—either hung or laid flat on a towel.

Leather and Suede 

Water and heat can both ruin these luxe fabrics. To avoid water stain damage or cracks from the heat drying out your garment, it's best to always take anything made with these materials to the dry cleaner.

Pleather 

While faux leather is suitable for the washer, it’s recommended to keep the leather alternative out of the dryer because the heat can cause the fabric to warp and pucker, making your clothing item look worn out or unwearable.

Anything With Lace

Though beautiful and dainty, this intricate fabric requires hand-washing and air drying. To help lace keep its shape and avoid fraying or loose threads, keep it away from any intense heat. The dryer weakens the delicate threads and the motion can cause tears and snags. Rather than relying on a machine, gently remove excess water with a towel then hang the garment to dry. 

Velvet

Another specialty material that should be kept out of the dryer is velvet. To keep the fabric looking and feeling its softest, simply lay any velvet items flat on a drying rack to air dry. If there are any wrinkles, gently steam.

Wool

Unless you’re looking to majorly shrink a wool sweater to fit a child, it’s best to avoid any heat when cleaning anything made with the material. Keeping wool items out of the dryer will help ensure they maintain their correct size and shape. The heat causes the natural fibers to shrink—as does excessive water.

Silk 

Most garments made with this delicate fabric can be washed on a gentle cycle, but should never end up in the dryer and instead be hung to dry. Hanging silk items also helps avoid wrinkles, though you can steam as needed. 

Tights and Pantyhose

No one wants saggy or ripped stockings! Avoid the dryer in order to avoid stretched out tights. The heat can warp and loosen the elastic in them, causing them to lose their shape.

Bathmats

Any bathroom flooring cover that is 100% cotton is perfectly fine to take a tumble in the dryer, however those with rubber or slip-proof backing should be left to air dry. The heat may cause the rubber to melt, not only damaging the rug but potentially the dryer too.

Slippers

Just like running shoes, your slippers could benefit from a wash every now, (especially if they often make a trip outside when you’re rolling the trash bin out or grabbing the newspaper); however it’s best to skip the dryer to keep the heat from separating or melting the soles.

Anything The Label Says Not To 

While it might sound obvious when the tag explicitly says not to, it can still be tempting to toss that item in the dryer if you're in a pinch—especially if it’s something you’ve washed many times. Even if it doesn’t seem like a material to be worried about shrinking or bleeding, it’s always best to follow the instructions on the garment.