Washing apparel by hand should not directly spoil your washer/dryer duo. In fact, washing some delicate items or those labeled as "hand wash only" by hand is a recommended method to prevent damage. However, it's essential to be careful with the following aspects:
Detergents and cleaning agents: Some detergents or cleaning agents may not be suitable for use in washing machines and can cause damage or excessive foaming. Make sure to use appropriate detergents for hand washing.
Hard scrubbing: Aggressive scrubbing can lead to wear and tear of fabrics and may not be suitable for delicate items like silk or lace. When washing by hand, gently agitate the water and allow the detergent to do its work.
Drainage: Ensure that the sink or basin you use for hand washing is free from sharp objects or rough surfaces that could cause damage to the fabric.
Temperature control: With hand washing, it's easier to control the water temperature to prevent damage to sensitive fabrics that might shrink or bleed color in hot water.
Rinsing: Make sure to rinse the apparel thoroughly to remove all detergent residues as they can irritate the skin and damage the fabric over time.
While hand washing should not directly spoil your washer/dryer duo, improper practices like using the wrong detergents, scrubbing too vigorously, or not rinsing properly could lead to fabric damage or color bleeding. Additionally, washing heavily soiled or contaminated items by hand before putting them in the washer could help maintain the machine's cleanliness and prevent cross-contamination.
In summary, hand washing apparel is a safe and effective method for delicate items, as long as you follow proper hand washing techniques and use suitable detergents. It should not have a negative impact on your washer and dryer, but it can help prolong the life of your clothing and prevent damage to delicate fabrics.