Many people use laundry mesh bags when washing clothes in a washing machine. These bags serve multiple purposes: they prevent clothes from tangling and deforming, reduce fibre friction, and protect garments. They are particularly useful for clothes with delicate details like rhinestones, prints, or drawstrings. For clothes with buttons and zippers, mesh bags can also minimize the impact on the washing machine drum.
However, choosing the right laundry mesh bag can be tricky. While the size and mesh density (fine or coarse) depend on individual needs, the zipper type is critical. I recommend opting for bags with plastic zippers rather than metal ones.
I have tried various brands and types of laundry bags, and while their overall performance is similar, the zipper type greatly affects their lifespan.
Plastic zippers are usually made in one piece, meaning their pull tabs are integral without joints, making them more durable. The plastic material reduces the risk of damaging the washing machine drum and tends to be quieter during the wash cycle.
On the other hand, metal zippers are often problematic. I’ve found that many brands use a U-shaped connection in the pull tab, which can deform and detach over time. Once the pull-tab falls off, the zipper becomes almost unusable. Although you can reattach it, it tends to fall off again and eventually break. Furthermore, the paint on these metal zippers can chip away over time, and they tend to be noisier during operation. I strongly advise against purchasing laundry bags with metal zippers.
