What should you not put in a dryer?
You should not put rubber-backed mats, wool, fur, swimwear, oily clothes, shoes, or items left in pockets into a dryer. Dryer heat and tumbling can damage fabrics, melt materials, create fire risks, and cause internal dryer damage.
Can putting the wrong items in a dryer damage it?
Yes. Drying the wrong items can cause overheating, lint blockages, melted materials, drum damage, sensor failure, and early dryer breakdown.
Why does my dryer overheat?
Dryers often overheat due to blocked airflow, excessive lint buildup, overloaded cycles, or drying items that trap moisture or oil.
What items are a fire risk in a dryer?
Oily clothes, rubber-backed mats, lint-heavy fabrics, and items with flammable residue increase the risk of dryer fires.
What Not to Put in a Dryer
Rubber-Backed Mats
Bath mats with rubber backing should never go in the dryer. High heat can cause the rubber to crack or melt. In some cases, it can stick to the drum or create a fire risk.
Best option: Air dry away from direct heat.
Fur (Real or Fake)
Dryers destroy fur. Real fur can shed and lose its lining. Fake fur can melt or tangle beyond repair.
Best option: Hang to dry and gently brush once dry.
Wool Items
Wool shrinks quickly under heat and movement. Even “washable” wool should never be dried.
Best option: Lay flat to air dry.
Swimwear
Dryer heat weakens elastic fibers. Swimwear can stretch out, fade, and lose shape fast.
Best option: Rinse well and hang to dry.
Oily or Greasy Clothes
Kitchen towels, garage rags, or clothes with oil or fuel stains should never go in the dryer. Heat can lock stains in or cause fire hazards.
Best option: Air dry first, then wash again if needed.
Running Shoes
Shoes can bang around, damage the drum, and ruin their own structure. Heat also weakens glue and cushioning.
Best option: Stuff with paper and air dry for 24 hours.
Items Left in Pockets
Pens, crayons, coins, lip balm, and screws can melt, break apart, or scratch the drum.
Tip: Always turn pockets inside out before washing and drying.
How the Wrong Items Can Damage a Dryer
Putting the wrong items in the dryer doesn’t just harm clothes – it harms the machine.
Common dryer damage includes:
- Overheating from heavy or water-soaked items
- Lint buildup that blocks airflow and increases fire risk
- Melted rubber or plastic stuck to the drum
- Dented or scratched drums from shoes or metal objects
- Off-balance loads that wear out bearings and motors
- Sensor problems that cause poor drying or shutdowns
These issues often lead to costly repairs or full dryer replacement.
Need Dryer Repair Help?
If your dryer is overheating, not heating, making noise, or shutting off early, it may already be damaged.
At ARNI Services, we fix all dryer problems, including:
