The washing machine has spoiled us a little. Dirty? In it goes. Most of the time, that system works beautifully. 

But, every so often, something needs to be rescued from the laundry pile before we hit start. Some things can be damaged in the wash. Others can cause problems for the machine itself. And at least one needs to come out because nobody remembered to check their pockets.

So, before you pour in the detergent, give the load one last look. Here are eight things that don’t belong in the machine. 

Clothes and Blankets Covered in Pet Hair

The dog's favorite blanket may desperately need a wash, but deal with some of that fur first. According to Consumer Reports, pet hair and water can form clumps that stick to fabrics and the washer drum. Those clumps can also clog the drain pump.

Before washing furry clothes or bedding, remove as much hair as possible with a lint roller, sticky tape, or vacuum. The washing machine will take it from there. It just doesn't need the entire dog.

Memory Foam Pillows

Pillows get sweaty and dusty, so wanting to give them a good wash makes perfect sense. But check what it's made of first.

Whirlpool says synthetic, down, and feather pillows are often machine washable, while memory foam should stay out of the machine because the foam can break apart. The cover may be machine washable, so check its care label separately. 

But, for the foam itself, Whirlpool recommends spot cleaning for smaller messes or careful hand washing when a deeper clean is necessary.

Underwire Bras Without a Laundry Bag

We're not banishing every bra from the washing machine. If the care label says it can go in, give it a little protection first. Consumer Reports recommends putting laundry with metal attachments, including underwire bras, into a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. Metal pieces can damage other clothes or the machine.

Fasten the hooks first, pop the bra into a bag, and choose the cycle recommended on the label. You and your bra have been through enough.

Clothes Covered in Sand, Dirt, or Mud

The washing machine can handle dirty clothes. It doesn't need half the beach, though. Shake out sandy towels, brush dried mud from clothes, and remove as much loose dirt as you can before you toss it in. Excess sand and soil can abrade other fabrics and accumulate inside the machine.

That extra minute outside may also save you from wondering why there's a small sandbox at the bottom of the washer later.

Shoes That Aren't Machine Washable

Sneakers look wonderfully washable. They're made of fabric, they're dirty, and there's a washing machine sitting right there. Unfortunately, there's no universal rule for shoes. Some can handle a gentle machine wash, while leather, suede, embellishments, adhesives, and certain shoe constructions may not fare as well.

Check the manufacturer's cleaning instructions before tossing them in. If you can throw your shoes in the machine, follow the directions for removing laces or insoles, choosing a cycle, and drying afterward.

Weighted Blankets That Are Too Much for the Washer

A machine-washable label doesn't automatically mean every washing machine is ready for the job. Weighted blankets can become heavy once water enters the equation, and the filling matters, too. And, whatever you do, don’t put in weighted blankets filled with materials such as sand, rice, or beans.

Check the blanket's care instructions and your washer's capacity before attempting it. If the blanket is too much for your home machine, this may be a job for a commercial machine or professional cleaner.

Anything With Gasoline or Other Flammable Residue

This one isn't about protecting your favorite sweater. It's a safety issue. Clothes that have been exposed to gasoline or other flammable substances shouldn't be put in the washing machine.

Whirlpool says gasoline-soiled clothing can create a fire hazard in both the washer and dryer. Instead, treat and hand-wash gasoline-stained clothing.

If you're dealing with a specific chemical, be sure to check its safety instructions and your appliance manufacturer's guidance first.

Whatever Is Still Hiding in Your Pockets

Finally, meet the laundry offender most of us have personally encountered. Coins, keys, jewelry, tissues, earbuds, lip balm, and whatever else we shoved into a pocket three days ago should come out before the clothes go in.

Small objects can wind up where they don't belong in the machine. Coins and other debris can create a blockage in the washer's filter and drain system.

Make the pocket pat-down part of laundry day.

Give the Load One Last Look

We don't need to approach the washing machine with suspicion every time we do laundry.

Just shake off the excess dirt and pet hair, empty the pockets, use a mesh bag when appropriate, and check the care label when something gives you pause.

That extra minute before pressing start may save a favorite item, spare the washing machine some grief, or rescue an earbud from a very unnecessary bath.

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