Household hacks spread quickly online, and one of the latest trends suggests placing an empty plastic bottle inside your washing machine during a laundry cycle. Supporters claim the bottle helps improve washing performance, reduce wrinkles, or even save water and energy.
But does this trick actually work? The answer is more complicated than many viral posts suggest. While there are theories behind the idea, experts generally recommend using laundry appliances according to the manufacturer’s instructions rather than relying on untested hacks.
Here’s what you should know before trying it.
Where Did the Plastic Bottle Trick Come From?
The idea has circulated on social media and home improvement blogs for years. Different versions of the hack claim that an empty plastic bottle can:
Improve the movement of clothes inside the drum
Help separate laundry during washing
Reduce wrinkles
Increase cleaning efficiency
Save water or detergent
However, there is very little scientific evidence to support these claims.
Does It Actually Improve Washing Performance?
Modern washing machines are carefully engineered to clean clothes through a combination of water, detergent, drum movement, and programmed wash cycles.
Adding a lightweight plastic bottle is unlikely to significantly improve this process.
In some cases, the bottle may simply float, bounce around the drum, or become trapped among clothing without providing any measurable benefit.
Could It Damage the Washing Machine?
Although a small empty plastic bottle may not immediately damage every washing machine, there are potential risks.
Depending on the size and shape of the bottle, it could:
Become lodged between clothing items
Create unnecessary noise
Interfere with normal drum movement
Wear down or crack during repeated use
Manufacturers generally do not recommend placing unrelated objects inside the washing machine unless they are specifically designed for laundry use.
Better Ways to Improve Laundry Results
Instead of relying on internet hacks, consider proven methods for cleaner clothes.
Avoid Overloading the Machine
Clothes need enough room to move freely during the wash cycle.
An overloaded machine reduces cleaning performance and may leave detergent residue behind.
Use the Correct Amount of Detergent
More detergent does not always mean cleaner clothes.
Using too much detergent can create excess suds, leave residue on fabrics, and reduce washing efficiency.
Always follow the detergent manufacturer’s recommendations.Sort Laundry Properly
Separating clothes by:
Color
Fabric type
Soil level
helps protect garments and improves washing results.
Choose the Right Wash Cycle
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Read more on the next page…Different fabrics require different care.
Selecting the appropriate cycle helps protect delicate items while ensuring heavily soiled clothing receives adequate cleaning.
What About Laundry Balls and Washing Accessories?
Unlike ordinary plastic bottles, some reusable laundry balls and washing accessories are specifically designed for use inside washing machines.
While opinions vary regarding their effectiveness, products intended for laundry are generally safer than improvised household items.
If you’re considering such accessories, choose products recommended for your specific washing machine model.
Tips for Keeping Your Washing Machine Performing Well
Regular maintenance often has a greater impact than viral hacks.
Simple habits include:
Cleaning the detergent drawer regularly
Wiping the door seal
Running a cleaning cycle when recommended
Leaving the door slightly open after use to reduce moisture buildup
Checking pockets before washing clothes