An empty plastic bottle inside a washing machine may sound unusual, but this household tip has been circulating online for years. According to its supporters, placing a clean, empty bottle in the drum can help reduce tangled laundry, improve the movement of large items, and even leave clothes less wrinkled at the end of the wash.
While the idea is based on a simple mechanical principle, there is little evidence to prove that it consistently improves washing performance. So, is this trick worth trying? Here’s what you should know.
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The main purpose of this method is to stop large items such as bed sheets, duvet covers, and thick towels from wrapping tightly around themselves during the wash cycle. When this happens, water and detergent may not circulate as evenly through the fabric, potentially leading to uneven cleaning and rinsing.
The trick involves placing a clean, rigid plastic bottle with the cap tightly closed into the drum before starting the machine. As the drum rotates, the bottle moves between the fabrics and may help break up large bundles of laundry, allowing the items to separate more easily. Some users report that their bedding comes out less tangled and easier to hang or fold afterward.
Although the concept makes mechanical sense, there is no strong scientific evidence showing that it significantly improves washing or rinsing performance. Washing machine manufacturers also do not recommend placing objects inside the drum unless they are specifically designed for that purpose. For this reason, the results can vary depending on the washing machine, the size of the load, and the type of fabrics being washed.
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Is It Safe? A Few Precautions Before Trying It
Anyone who wants to test this method should follow a few basic precautions. A sturdy plastic bottle, such as a 1.5- or 2-liter soda bottle, is generally recommended because it is less likely to collapse during the wash cycle. The bottle should be clean, completely empty, and tightly sealed with its original cap.
This trick is best suited for bulky loads, including sheets, towels, blankets, and duvet covers. It is not recommended for delicate fabrics such as silk, wool, lace, or lingerie, which could be damaged by additional friction.
Another point to consider is the extra noise. As the bottle moves around the drum, it can strike the metal interior, making the wash cycle noticeably louder. It is also worth remembering that one of the most effective ways to improve washing performance is simply to avoid overloading the machine. Giving laundry enough room to move freely usually produces better results than adding accessories.
Placing an empty plastic bottle in the washing machine is an interesting household hack that may help in certain situations, particularly with bulky bedding. However, it should not be considered a proven solution, and it is no substitute for proper loading, the correct wash cycle, and following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
