If you accidentally put your empty drinking glass into the washing machine instead of the dishwasher, a few things may happen:
Glass breakage: Washing machines are not designed to handle glassware like dishwashers are. The agitation and spinning of the washing machine can cause the glass to knock against other items or the machine's drum, increasing the risk of breakage. Broken glass in the washing machine can be dangerous, as it may cause damage to the machine or pose a safety hazard if unnoticed when removing clothes.
Damage to the washing machine: Glass items can potentially cause damage to the washing machine's drum, agitator, or other components. Broken glass fragments could become lodged in the machine's mechanisms, leading to operational issues and costly repairs.
Stains or scratches on the glass: The rough and abrasive surface of the washing machine's drum, along with the presence of other clothes or items, could result in stains, scratches, or other damage to the glass surface.
Water drainage issues: If the glass breaks during the washing process, it may create a blockage in the washing machine's drainage system. This can lead to water not draining properly, potentially causing leaks or flooding.
To avoid these problems, it's essential to be mindful when loading items into appliances. If you accidentally put a drinking glass in the washing machine, remove it carefully before starting the cycle. If the glass breaks inside the machine, turn it off immediately, and try to remove any large glass fragments carefully. It's a good idea to run an empty cycle afterward to help remove any smaller glass particles and ensure the washing machine is clean and safe to use again.