Should You Put Your Laundry Detergent Cap in the Washer—or Will It Damage Your Machine?

There are thousands of #laundryhack videos on social media—but that doesn’t mean you should follow them all. From making your own detergent pods to adding vinegar to the washing machine, some of these hacks are smart (or at least harmless). But experts warn you’re better off skipping others—like the latest trend, which includes tossing the plastic detergent cap into the washing machine with your clothes.

This hack offers a solution to a minor, yet familiar, laundry annoyance: After measuring the detergent in the cap and pouring it into the machine, the few drips of detergent left in the cap can spill over onto the detergent bottle, causing a mess. The social media solution? Just toss the cap in the washing machine and it supposedly comes out squeaky clean—but experts don't recommend trying it. Here's why.

Why You Shouldn't Toss the Cap into the Washer

This laundry hack sounds easy. But smart? Not so much. We asked laundry expert Morgan LaLonde, a Whirlpool Laundry brand manager, for her thoughts: “It is not recommended to place laundry detergent caps in your Whirlpool washing machine, as it is advised not to wash a rigid, non-permeable vessel,” LaLonde says.

The reason? It can do more harm than good. “Placing plastic detergent caps into the washer can create harmful effects on fabric and the user,” LaLonde says. “Washing the cap could potentially cause it to fracture, putting the fabric at risk of tearing.”

Better Solutions for Cleaning the Cap

The motivation behind the trend is understandable—no one wants sticky detergent dripping all over their hands or laundry room. However, instead of taking the cap for a spin, try one of the following two methods. The most obvious: Take the extra few seconds to rinse out the cap in a sink before putting it back on the detergent bottle. 

Alternatively, add a small tray or sink caddy to your laundry room setup. After you measure the detergent, place the cap on the tray instead of the detergent bottle. Then you can wash both the tray and the detergent cap as needed, saving you the hassle of rinsing the cap every time. Additionally, you can store other laundry essentials on the tray, such as a laundry soap bar and an old toothbrush for scrubbing.

Experts Warn You Shouldn't Skip Using the Cap

Whatever you do, don’t try to skip dirtying the cap by pouring detergent directly onto clothes from the jug, rather than using the designated spot for detergent.

“Users should always pour detergent into the correct designated location, as instructed in the device’s owner manual,” LaLonde says. “Not following these instructions could result in harm to the fabrics or machine.”

In short: if you’re aiming for cleaner laundry, your best bet is to skip the DIY hacks and stick with your washer’s guidelines. Your clothes—and your machine—will thank you.