Is it possible to wash a refrigerator bag in a washing machine?
The thermal bag is indispensable for lovers of travel, fishing and hiking. But during long-term use, the product becomes dirty, because it is intended for transporting products. How to wash a refrigerator bag in a washing machine and will it not get damaged? What rules must be followed for a successful result?
Why is the machine contraindicated?
Manufacturers prohibit washing the cooler bag in a machine. This requirement applies to all types of products designed to maintain temperature. Be it thermal bags made of polyethylene, fabric or foil fabric. And yet the owners manage to wash them in a washing machine, although this is strictly prohibited even on delicate cycles.
Thermal bags come in different types:
- the usual one, which contains insulating materials inside, keeps the temperature for a couple of hours;
- a bag with cooling elements has an impressive layer of insulation and a waterproof base; it can keep the cold for half a day;
- plugged into the network: when power is supplied, it works like a regular refrigerator, in other cases - like a simple thermal bag.
Attention! Use a washing machine to clean your thermal bag only as a last resort.
None of these types can be cleaned in a washing machine. There are several reasons for this. The main one is the risk of deformation when washing the thermal bag.
The fact is that the bottom of the product contains cardboard, which maintains its shape. As a result of exposure to water, it will crumble. The insulation, which performs the main function in a cooler bag, also reacts negatively to washing.It may become twisted, causing the product to become ineffective. That is why, even after manual processing, the thermal bag must not be squeezed.
The next important element that affects the quality of temperature maintenance is foil fabric. After washing, this coating will crack, and then the cooler bag will no longer perform its functions. The coating of the outer layer of an isothermal product may also be damaged.
We use the machine at our own risk
And yet, despite the manufacturer’s requirement, some housewives still use the washing machine to wash the thermal bag. But before you decide to take such a risk, you need to evaluate how strong the materials of the product are. Pay special attention to the cardboard bottom; it must be pulled out before placing the bag in the washing machine.
Guidelines for washing thermal bags in the machine:
- remove all elements that can be removed;
- fasten the locks;
- place the cooler bag in a special laundry bag to minimize damage;
- pour liquid detergent into the tray;
- set the program for delicate items or hand washing;
- When the process is complete, remove the thermal bag and dry it.
It is advisable to choose a mode with low temperature and minimum spin speed.
Special mention should be made of how to properly dry isothermal products. Never place them near batteries or in the sun. Drying should occur under natural conditions. It is best to fill the bag tightly with newspaper to help it retain its shape, and then place it upside down. For drying, choose rooms in which there is natural air circulation (for example, a balcony).
We clean in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations
The best option for washing a thermal bag is manual cleaning. In addition, it does not take as much time and effort compared to machine processing. How to properly wash an insulated bag by hand:
- pour warm water about 30 C into a large container;
- add liquid hand wash (in the proportion of 1 tbsp per 1 liter of water);
- place the bag in the resulting solution and leave for fifteen minutes;
- Wipe particularly dirty areas with a soft-bristled brush or cloth;
- After washing, the thermal bag should be rinsed and left to dry.
Due to the fact that the bag is used to store food, it often develops stubborn stains or unpleasant odors. A vinegar solution in a one to one ratio will help remove traces of fruit or juice. Simply apply it to the stain and rinse with water after a few minutes.
If greasy marks appear in the thermal bag, you need to use laundry soap or dishwashing detergent. Wet the material with warm soapy water and leave for ten minutes. After this, wipe the bag with a soft brush and rinse.
Tea bags will help get rid of the unpleasant odor. Place a few inside a thermal bag overnight. In the morning you will notice that there is no trace left of the previous stench.
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