What a laundry bag is

Short answer: A laundry bag is a zipped pouch made of fine mesh. It keeps small or delicate items together, so they are not stretched or caught on other clothes. Water and detergent flow freely through the mesh, so the clothes get just as clean as the rest of the load.

It stops items getting caught

Hooks, zips and buttons on other clothes can catch thin threads and pull them out of the fabric. That happens easily in a full drum where everything tumbles together. The bag keeps delicate items apart from the rest. Always fasten the hooks on a bra before washing it. See bamboo bra.

It keeps small items together

Socks and small items do not disappear in the machine when they are in a bag. Otherwise they can get stuck in the rubber seal by the door or hide inside sleeves and trouser legs. With a bag everything comes out at once, and socks stay in pairs. See bamboo T-shirts for women.

It reduces stretching

In the bag, clothes are not thrown as hard against the drum and do not get tangled with heavy items such as towels and jeans. That protects elastic and fine edges that could otherwise be pulled out of shape. Thin items keep their fit for longer when they are not stretched in every wash. See socks for women.

What belongs in the bag

Bras, briefs, socks and thin tops benefit most from a bag. The same goes for clothes with fine edges, lace or thin straps. Sturdy items like towels, jeans and sweatshirts do not need one. A good rule is to use the bag for anything small, light or with something that can catch.

Do not overfill it

A bag needs room for water and detergent to reach the clothes. Put no more than two or three items in each bag, so they can move freely. An overfilled bag turns into a tight bundle, and the fabric in the middle does not get properly clean. Use two bags rather than one that is packed full.

Close the zip fully

The zip on the bag must be fully closed, or clothes can work their way out during the wash. Many bags have a small flap to tuck the zip pull under, so it does not knock against the drum or catch other clothes. Check it before you close the machine door.

Fine or coarse mesh

Bags come with fine and coarse mesh. Fine mesh is best for small and very thin items, because nothing can poke through the holes. Coarse mesh lets water through more easily and suits slightly larger items. If you only have one, choose fine mesh, as it works for most things.

Look after the bag

A laundry bag lasts for years if you look after it. Wash it with a normal load now and then, and check that the zip still closes properly. If there is a hole in the mesh, replace it before small items slip out. It is a small expense that protects the most delicate things in your drawer.

Frequently asked questions

What is a laundry bag used for

For bras, socks and anything delicate that could otherwise catch on zips or be stretched in the drum. It also keeps small items together so they do not go missing.

Do clothes get as clean in a bag

Yes, as long as the bag is not overfilled. Put no more than two or three items in each bag, so water and detergent can move freely around the clothes.

How long does a laundry bag last

Several years. It is a small expense that extends the life of the most delicate items in your drawer, as long as the zip works and the mesh has no holes.