Most households stick to a routine of washing clothes, sheets, and towels, but cleaning experts point out that several other items around the home are equally deserving of a spin in the washing machine. From bathroom accessories to pet bedding, these overlooked items can harbor moisture, bacteria, and allergens if left unwashed. We spoke with professional cleaners who shared six such items and their best practices for laundering them.
The list includes bathtub pillows, shower curtains and liners, bath mats, reusable grocery bags, pillows, and pet bedding. Each requires specific care, but all can be machine-washed with the right approach.
Bathroom Items That Need Regular Washing
Alissa Schow, founder of the cleaning account Home & Chaos, says she deliberately purchased a machine-washable bathtub pillow. She tosses it into the wash whenever she deep-cleans her tub. However, she cautions that cleaning methods vary by material, so checking the care label is essential.
Shower curtains and liners are another bathroom staple that often goes neglected. Robin Murphy, founder of housecleaning service ChirpChirp, recommends laundering them at least once a month. She explains that machine washing is more effective at removing soap film and mildew than hand wiping. Pre-treating stains or soaking may be necessary before washing.
Bath mats, which sit in high-moisture environments, are prone to mold and mildew buildup. Erin Zanelli, CEO of residential cleaning company Tranquil Home, advises washing them in hot water with a mild detergent to ensure thorough cleaning.
Beyond the Bathroom: Reusable Bags and Pillows
Reusable bags, whether used for groceries, lunches, or shopping, can accumulate bacteria over time. Hyacinth Tucker, owner of The Laundry Basket LLC, a subscription-based laundry service, stresses that regular washing reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses, especially for bags used to carry food.
Pillows, despite being covered by pillowcases, absorb sweat, drool, and bacteria during nightly use. Axel Avery, a professional cleaner with Oakville Maids, recommends washing pillows quarterly. He notes that people spend about eight hours a day in bed, making pillow hygiene crucial. Marilee Nelson, co-founder of natural cleaning product retailer Branch Basics, advises always checking the care label for specific instructions and using a gentle solution for machine-washable pillows.
Pet Bedding: A Weekly Task
Pet bedding can accumulate dirt, debris, and pet hair over time, according to Zanelli. She suggests washing it similarly to human bedding. Murphy recommends placing pet bedding in the wash once a week. Before washing, disassemble any removable parts and check care labels for guidance.
Experts agree that incorporating these items into your regular laundry routine can prevent buildup of grime and allergens, contributing to a cleaner and healthier home environment.
