The impact of washing or drying a credit/debit card depends on several factors, such as the type of card and the severity of the exposure to water and heat. In most cases, credit and debit cards are designed to withstand some level of moisture and minor wear. Here's what you should consider:
Water Resistance: Credit and debit cards are typically made of plastic, which is generally water-resistant to some extent. A brief exposure to water, like accidentally going through a washing machine, may not immediately render the card unusable.
Heat Tolerance: Plastic cards are designed to withstand normal daily temperatures, including those in clothes dryers. However, prolonged exposure to high heat can lead to warping or damage.
Magnetic Strip Damage: One of the potential issues with washing and drying a card is the magnetic strip on the back. If the card is severely damaged, the magnetic strip may become unreadable, making it difficult to use the card for transactions.
Chip Damage: If your card has a chip, it may also be susceptible to damage from water and heat. Prolonged exposure to these elements might cause the chip to malfunction.
Contactless Functionality: Some credit and debit cards have contactless (RFID) functionality. Excessive heat could potentially damage the RFID chip, affecting its contactless capabilities.
Embossed Numbers: If your card has raised (embossed) numbers, they might become distorted or partially rubbed off during the washing/drying process. This could lead to difficulties when using manual card imprinters.
After accidentally washing and drying a credit/debit card, you should follow these steps:
Inspect the Card: Examine the card closely for any visible damage, including warping, discoloration, or damaged magnetic strip or chip.
Contact Your Bank or Card Issuer: If you notice any damage, contact your bank or the card issuer immediately to request a replacement card.
Test the Card: If the card looks intact, you can try using it for a small transaction to see if it still works. Make sure to have an alternative payment method available in case the card doesn't function properly.
It's essential to be cautious and act quickly if your card has been exposed to water and heat. While some cards might survive the washing and drying process, others could be permanently damaged. Getting a replacement card from your bank or issuer is the safest course of action to ensure continued functionality and security.