5 Times It’s Better to Hand Wash Instead of Machine Wash

Washing machines are great, but they’re not gentle on everything. Some items last longer, hold their shape, and look better if you take a few extra minutes at the sink instead.

Here are the times hand washing really is worth the trouble.

Delicate sweaters and knits that stretch easily

Soft sweaters, especially ones with wool, cashmere, or loose knits, can stretch, pill, or warp in a machine—even on a gentle cycle. Hand washing keeps them from getting dragged around or twisted.

Fill a sink or tub with cool water and a small amount of gentle detergent. Swish the sweater softly, soak for a few minutes, then rinse clean. Roll it in a towel to press out water and lay it flat to dry. It keeps sleeves from growing six inches and the fabric from getting fuzzy.

Underwire bras and delicate lingerie

Underwire bras snag and twist in the machine, even in a mesh bag. Straps stretch, hooks catch, and lace gets rough. Hand washing keeps them supportive longer and saves you from wires poking through.

Use cool water and a tiny bit of mild soap, gently swish, rinse well, and press water out with a towel—no wringing. Hang or lay flat to dry. You’ll notice they hold their shape and elastic much better, which means you’re not replacing them as often.

Items with beading, embroidery, or attached trims

Anything with beads, sequins, embroidery, or glued-on trims is at risk in the washer. Agitation and spinning can loosen threads, pop beads off, or weaken adhesives. One cycle can undo a lot of detail.

Hand wash with gentle movement and avoid hard scrubbing. Pay attention to areas that touch skin the most, like underarms and collars, and be extra gentle over decorated zones. It takes more care but protects pieces you probably bought to feel a little special.

Clothes with “dry clean” labels you wear lightly

Not every “dry clean” item has to go to the cleaners after two wears, especially if it’s lightly worn and not stained. Some blouses, lightweight sweaters, and scarves can handle careful hand washing better than harsh chemicals.

Research the fabric first—pure wool, silk, and some structured pieces still need a pro. But many blends do fine in cool water with mild soap. Pat dry, reshape, and lay flat or hang away from direct heat. Your clothes will often look and feel better without constant dry cleaning.

Shoes and accessories that a machine can destroy

Some canvas sneakers can handle a gentle machine wash, but a lot of shoes, hats, and soft accessories can’t. Glue can loosen, shapes can warp, and soles can separate. Hand washing gives you control over how much water and friction they get.

Spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, and use a soft brush where you need more oomph. Stuff shoes or structured hats with towels to help them hold shape while they dry. It’s slower but avoids the “these never looked right again” feeling.