Can machine embroidery be washed in a washing machine?

Yes, machine embroidery can usually be washed in a washing machine as long as the embroidered item and fabric are suitable for machine washing.

Turn It Inside Out

Turning the garment inside out helps protect the embroidery from rubbing against other clothing and the washing machine.

Follow the Care Label

Use the washing temperature and cycle recommended for the fabric. Embroidery does not change the garment's basic washing instructions.

Use a Gentle Cycle When Appropriate

A gentle cycle can help reduce wear on delicate fabrics and embroidery. Avoid unnecessarily hot water or aggressive washing cycles.

Be Careful With Bleach

Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals unless the garment's care instructions specifically allow them. They can damage some fabrics and embroidery threads.

Dry According to the Fabric

Follow the garment's drying instructions. Air drying is often a gentle option, especially for delicate embroidered clothing.

Best Tip

Good-quality machine embroidery is designed to be durable, but proper care helps keep the stitches and fabric looking their best. Always follow the garment's care label first.

Source of information: With over 200,000 customers and a private Facebook group with more than 2,000 members, we have heard just about every embroidery question and troubleshooting problem you can imagine. This question has come to us directly from customers by email, through our Facebook page, and in our private Facebook group.

Have another question? See all the answers in our machine embroidery designs FAQ.