Finding a stray tube of chapstick in your washing machine after the cycle is finished can be a sticky situation (pun intended!). This article explores what happens when you accidentally wash chapstick, the potential problems, and most importantly, how to clean up the mess. We'll cover everything from preventing future incidents to dealing with the aftermath on your clothes and your machine.
What Happens When Chapstick Goes Through the Wash?
The impact of washing chapstick depends on several factors: the type of chapstick, the wash cycle, and the fabric of your clothes. Generally, here's what you can expect:
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Melting and Spreading: The heat and agitation of the washing machine will likely melt the chapstick. This melted wax will then spread across your clothes and potentially onto other items in the load.
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Wax Stains: The most noticeable effect will be wax stains on your clothes. These stains can be difficult to remove depending on the fabric and the type of chapstick (e.g., tinted chapstick may leave color stains).
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Machine Residue: Some residue might remain inside the washing machine, potentially clogging the drainage system or leaving a waxy film on the drum.
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Scent Transfer: The scent of your chapstick can linger in the machine, possibly transferring to subsequent laundry loads.
Types of Chapstick and Their Effects
Not all chapsticks are created equal. The composition of the chapstick can affect how it behaves in the wash:
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Petroleum-based Chapsticks: These are generally more difficult to remove due to their oily nature.
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Natural or Organic Chapsticks: These may be easier to clean, but still leave behind stains.
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Tinted Chapsticks: These present a double whammy – wax stains and potential color stains.
Cleaning Up the Mess: Clothes and Machine
Dealing with the aftermath requires a two-pronged approach: cleaning your clothes and cleaning your washing machine.
Cleaning Your Clothes
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Scrape off Excess Wax: Before washing, gently scrape off as much solidified wax as possible using a dull knife or spoon.
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Pre-Treat the Stains: Apply a stain remover specifically designed for grease or oil stains. Let it sit for at least 15-30 minutes before washing.
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Wash as Usual: Wash the garment as per its care instructions. For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat this process.
Effective Stain Removal Techniques
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Freezing: If the wax is still visible after washing, place the garment in a freezer bag and freeze it for a couple of hours. The wax should solidify, allowing you to easily scrape it off.
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Ironing: Place a clean cloth over the stained area and gently iron it. The heat will melt the wax, causing it to transfer to the cloth. Repeat with clean cloths until the stain is gone. Be cautious to avoid burning the fabric.
Cleaning Your Washing Machine
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Wipe Down the Drum: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the inside of the washing machine drum.
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Run a Hot Water Cycle: Run an empty hot water cycle with a cup of white vinegar to help remove any remaining wax and odors.
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Check the Drain: Inspect the drain filter for any wax buildup.
Preventing Future Chapstick Incidents
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Designated Pockets: Keep chapstick in a dedicated pocket or bag.
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Careful Laundry Sorting: Thoroughly check your pockets before tossing clothes into the washing machine.
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Visible Storage: Store chapstick in a place easily visible to you before doing laundry.
Case Study: The Great Chapstick Catastrophe of 2023
Last year, a friend of mine accidentally washed a bright pink tinted chapstick with a load of white towels. The result? A collection of bright pink towels that required multiple washes and stain treatments to restore to their original color. This highlights the importance of careful pocket checking!
Conclusion: Don't Let Chapstick Ruin Your Laundry Day!
While finding chapstick in your washing machine is an unwelcome surprise, the problem is usually solvable. By following the cleaning steps outlined above and taking preventative measures, you can avoid this sticky situation in the future. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, especially when dealing with stubborn wax stains!