Did you know that your washing machine can clean more than just clothes? Here are eight items around your house that can be cleaned in the washing machine.

1. Stuffed animals. In order to clean your child’s favorite teddy bear (or any other beloved animal), place the toy in a mesh laundry bag and wash then rinse. Don’t use warm or hot water, as this can melt the glue in the toy. Only use half of the normal amount of detergent. Run the toy through a second cycle for rinsing, then air dry and fluff “hair” as needed.
2. Mop heads. First, you’ll want to check and make sure your mop head can be washed in the washing machine, as each brand is different. If you own a Swiffer, handwash.
3. Oven mitts. They may not look dirty, but think of how often you use your oven mitts and the types of surfaces they come into contact with; chances are, you can’t even see the germs on the mitts. Some other items that can be washed include potholders, dish towels, and washcloths.
4. More specifically, baseball caps. If stains are present, spray them with stain remover and let them sit for five minutes before washing on a short cycle with cold water. Allow airing dry.
5. More specifically, sneakers. Before washing, however, remove the shoelaces and place them into a cotton pillowcase so they won’t become tangled. Remove padding and inner soles, and then toss the shoes and pillowcase of shoestrings into the washer. To cut back the noise, you can throw in a few towels. Add a regular amount of detergent and a small amount of vinegar (to get rid of stench). Set the washer to a cold delicate cycle and allow to air dry.
6. Small toys, such as Lego’s or your dog’s favorite ball, can be placed into a mesh laundry bag and thrown into the washer. Set on a cold delicate cycle.
7. Set the washer to a warm gentle cycle, washing only two at a time. Include an extra cold water rinse and spin. Dry the pillows on low heat with some rubber dryer balls to re-fluff.
8. Plastic shower curtains. Add a normal amount of detergent and two or three bath towels to help clean the curtains. Hang up to air dry.