Finding a tube of chapstick in your washing machine after a load is a common laundry mishap. Don't panic! While it's definitely not ideal, it's usually a fixable problem. This guide will walk you through what happens when chapstick goes through the wash, how to deal with the aftermath, and how to prevent this from happening again.
What Happens When Chapstick Gets in the Wash?
The impact of chapstick in the washing machine depends on a few factors, including the type of chapstick, the fabric of your clothes, and the wash cycle. Here's a breakdown:
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The Chapstick Itself: Most chapsticks are made with waxes, oils, and emollients. These can melt or soften in the hot water of a washing machine, potentially staining clothes and leaving a waxy residue on other items in the load. Colored chapsticks pose a higher risk of staining than clear or colorless ones.
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The Fabric: Delicate fabrics are more susceptible to damage from the wax and oils in chapstick. However, even sturdy fabrics might retain a greasy feeling if not properly cleaned.
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The Wash Cycle: A longer, hotter wash cycle increases the likelihood of the chapstick melting and spreading.
Dealing with the Chapstick Mess
Here's a step-by-step guide to addressing the issue:
1. Check Your Clothes: Once the wash cycle is complete, carefully inspect all items for any stains or waxy residue.
2. Pre-Treat Stains: If you find stains, pre-treat them immediately with a stain remover designed for oil-based stains. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before washing again.
3. Rewash Affected Items: Wash the stained or affected clothes separately from other items, using a detergent appropriate for the fabric. Consider using a higher water level to help rinse away any remaining residue. Avoid using fabric softener, as it may trap the wax.
4. Air Dry: Air drying is recommended to ensure the wax completely evaporates. Putting stained items in the dryer could set the stain, making it much harder to remove.
5. Inspect the Washing Machine: Check the inside of your washing machine for any remaining chapstick residue. You might need to wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Preventing Future Chapstick Incidents
Preventing chapstick from ending up in the washing machine is the best solution. Here are a few tips:
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Empty Pockets: Before tossing clothes into the hamper, thoroughly check all pockets for any items, including chapstick. Make this a habit!
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Designated Pocket Check: Create a designated area, like a small bowl or container, near your laundry hamper to collect anything found in pockets.
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Use a Laundry Hamper with Pockets: Some laundry hampers come with built-in pockets for small items, helping keep track of things that might otherwise get lost.
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Careful Clothing Placement: When placing clothes in the washer, lay them flat to avoid hiding small items.
Chapstick in the Dryer?
If you accidentally put a load of laundry with chapstick through the dryer, the heat could melt the chapstick more extensively, making stain removal even more challenging. Carefully remove the clothes and follow the stain removal and rewashing steps outlined above.
By following these steps and implementing preventative measures, you can handle the unexpected appearance of chapstick in your washing machine with ease. Remember to always check your pockets!
