Can You Put Velcro in the Washing Machine: Dos and Don’ts
Can You Put Velcro in the Washing Machine?
Yes, you can put Velcro in the washing machine.
Velcro is designed to withstand extreme conditions such as high heat, sunlight, and rain, so it can be washed in a washing machine without getting damaged.
However, before washing, it is recommended to remove any debris from the “hook” portion of the Velcro using a brush or another Velcro strip.
Velcro rollers can be cleaned by rubbing two rollers together under warm water or using a crochet hook to loosen hair and lint.
To clean a Velcro watch band, you can use a Velcro strip by sticking it to the band and pulling it off.
For other Velcro products like the Swiffer WetJet, lint and debris can be removed using a stiff brush, duct tape, toothpick, or tweezers.
It is important to dry the Velcro properly to avoid any damage to the hooks and loops.
Additionally, cleaning the “hook” side can make the Velcro stick again.
If you want to make Velcro products germ-free, options like PhoneSoap and HomeSoap are available.
Key Points:
- Velcro can be put in the washing machine without getting damaged
- It is recommended to remove debris from the “hook” portion before washing
- Velcro rollers can be cleaned by rubbing two together or using a crochet hook
- A Velcro strip can be used to clean a Velcro watch band by sticking and pulling it off
- Other Velcro products can be cleaned using a stiff brush, duct tape, toothpick, or tweezers
- Properly drying Velcro is important to avoid damage, and cleaning the “hook” side can make it sticky again
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that Velcro was actually inspired by nature? Swiss engineer George de Mestral came up with the idea for Velcro after noticing how burrs stuck to his dog’s coat during a walk in the woods.
2. Contrary to popular belief, Velcro can indeed be washed in a washing machine. However, it’s recommended to place the garment with Velcro in a mesh laundry bag to prevent it from catching on other clothes or getting tangled.
3. The word “Velcro” is actually a combination of two French words. The inventor George de Mestral combined “Velours” (meaning velvet) and “Crochet” (meaning hook) to create the name for this innovative fastener.
4. NASA utilized Velcro extensively during the Apollo moon missions. Velcro was used to secure various objects in the spacecraft, ranging from equipment to food containers, due to its ability to withstand zero gravity conditions.
5. Velcro is used in a wide range of applications beyond just clothing and shoes. It is also commonly used in medical devices, such as prosthetics and braces, as well as in the aerospace industry for securing cables and components during space exploration missions.
The History And Durability Of Velcro
Velcro, a type of fastening system, was invented by Swiss engineer George de Mestral and patented in 1955. It quickly gained popularity due to its convenience and ease of use.
Velcro consists of two components: the “hook” side and the “loop” side. The hook side features small hooks, while the loop side contains tiny loops that interlock with the hooks when pressed together. This design allows for a strong and secure fastening method.
Despite being invented over 60 years ago, Velcro is still heavily used today. It has found applications across various industries, including clothing, footwear, packaging, and automotive.
One of the key reasons for its continued popularity is its exceptional durability. Velcro is designed to withstand extreme conditions, making it suitable for use in environments subjected to heat, sunlight, and rain.
Can Velcro Withstand Extreme Conditions?
Yes, it is safe to put Velcro in the washing machine. Velcro is specifically designed to be washable, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance.
The durability of Velcro is impressive as it can withstand harsh environments. It can handle high temperatures without losing its adhesive properties, making it suitable for washing in hot water. Additionally, Velcro can endure exposure to sunlight and rain without deteriorating, which further supports its ability to be washed in a machine.
It is worth noting that Velcro can sometimes accumulate debris, such as lint or hair, which may affect its performance. However, with proper cleaning and maintenance, Velcro can continue to function as intended.
- Velcro is designed to be washable.
- Velcro can withstand high temperatures.
- It can endure exposure to sunlight and rain.
- Proper cleaning and maintenance is essential for optimal performance.
Pre-Washing Tips For Removing Debris From Velcro
Before washing Velcro, it is advisable to remove any debris that may be trapped in the hooks or loops. This step will ensure a more thorough cleaning process. Some effective methods to remove debris from Velcro include:
- Using a brush or another Velcro strip to gently brush away the debris. By running the brush or strip over the Velcro, the hooks or loops will catch and pull out any accumulated dirt, hair, or grime.
- Soaking the Velcro in hot water. Placing the Velcro in a mesh bag will help prevent it from tangling with other items in the washing machine. After soaking, gently rub the Velcro together to loosen any debris trapped within the hooks and loops.
Note: Before washing Velcro, it is important to remove any debris trapped in the hooks or loops to ensure effective cleaning.
Cleaning Velcro Rollers And Watch Bands
Velcro rollers are commonly used in hairstyling and can become less effective over time due to the accumulation of hair and lint. To clean Velcro rollers:
- Rub two rollers together under warm running water to dislodge any hair or lint and restore the Velcro’s effectiveness.
Alternatively,
- Use a crochet hook to gently loosen and remove hair and lint from the Velcro.
When it comes to cleaning a Velcro watch band:
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Attach a Velcro strip to the band, pressing it firmly against the Velcro surface.
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Pull the strip off, and it will pick up any dirt, lint, or debris from the watch band.
Additionally,
- The cutting edge of a tape dispenser can be used to scrape off lint from the Velcro watch band.
Maintenance Tips For Velcro Products
To maintain the effectiveness of Velcro products, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential. For items such as the popular Swiffer WetJet, it is recommended to use a stiff brush to remove any lint or debris from the Velcro. Alternatively, duct tape, a toothpick, or tweezers can be used to pick out particles trapped in the hooks and loops.
If the Velcro becomes less sticky over time, it can be rejuvenated by cleaning out the “hook” side. Use a toothpick or a small crochet hook to remove any debris that may be interfering with the adhesive properties. This simple step can often bring back the Velcro’s stickiness, prolonging its lifespan.
Alternative Methods For Cleaning And Disinfecting Velcro
While washing Velcro in the machine is an effective method for cleaning, there are alternative approaches for disinfecting and removing odors from Velcro.
One option is to use specialized cleaning devices such as PhoneSoap or HomeSoap. These devices use UV light to eliminate germs and bacteria from phone screens, but they can also be used for Velcro products. Simply place the Velcro item inside the cleaning chamber and let the UV light do its work.
For odor removal, using shampoo or dish soap can be effective. Dilute the shampoo or dish soap in warm water and gently scrub the Velcro with a soft brush or cloth. Rinse thoroughly and allow the Velcro to dry completely before use.
Velcro can withstand extreme conditions and is safe to put in the washing machine. With proper cleaning and maintenance, Velcro products can continue to provide reliable fastening for years to come. By following the dos and don’ts outlined in this article, you can keep your Velcro items clean, disinfected, and in excellent condition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Velcro go in the washer and dryer?
Yes, Velcro can be put in the washer and dryer. However, it is essential to fasten the Velcro together tightly to avoid any additional debris from sticking to it during the cycle. It is recommended to wash the Velcro item separately from clothes that produce lint, and to dry it on low heat or allow it to air dry for the best results. This will help ensure that the Velcro remains intact and functional after being washed and dried.
Does Velcro still work after being washed?
Yes, Velcro can still work after being washed. Since Velcro is made with nylon fibers, it can withstand the washing process without losing its functionality. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of Velcro may vary after each wash, depending on the quality and condition of the fastener, as well as the washing method used. Nonetheless, as long as both the Velcro and the fabric it’s attached to are washable, it should continue to provide a strong bond when closed together.
Can you wash Velcro patches?
To keep your Velcro patches in good condition, it is recommended to wash them by hand. Machine washing may affect the adhesive properties of the Velcro, making it less effective in adhering to your clothes. By indulging in the gentleness of a hand wash, you can ensure that your Velcro patches remain intact and securely attach to your uniform, while keeping them clean and presentable. Remember to handle them with care while washing, so they can continue to serve their purpose effectively.
Does water destroy Velcro?
While water does not typically affect Velcro, it is important to exercise caution when using hot water. Exposing Velcro to hot water may have detrimental effects and potentially ruin the material. It is advisable to avoid using hot water and opt for other cleaning methods, such as using laundry detergent, to preserve the integrity of Velcro.