Can you wash asbestos out of clothes?

Why You Should Never Wash Asbestos-Contaminated Clothes at Home

Trying to wash clothes that may be contaminated with asbestos is far more dangerous than most people realize. Simply handling these garments—shaking them out, folding them, or tossing them in the washing machine—can release microscopic asbestos fibers into the air. These fibers are so light they can stay suspended for up to 80 hours, meaning they can be inhaled long after the initial disturbance.

Once airborne, asbestos poses serious health risks, including lung diseases and cancers like mesothelioma. And it’s not just the contaminated clothes that become a problem—laundering them at home can spread the fibers to other clothing in the same load, turning a single item into a source of widespread contamination.

Household washing machines aren’t equipped to handle hazardous materials. Unlike professional decontamination units, they don’t filter out or neutralize asbestos fibers. Instead, they circulate contaminated water, potentially exposing the machine, the laundry area, and anyone nearby.

If you suspect a piece of clothing has been exposed to asbestos—say, from working in an older building, a renovation project, or handling insulation—it’s crucial to treat it as hazardous waste. Do not shake, fold, or wash it. Instead, carefully seal it in a plastic bag and contact a certified asbestos abatement professional for proper disposal.

When it comes to asbestos, caution isn’t just recommended—it’s a necessity. The risks of improper handling far outweigh any chance of saving a shirt or jacket. Your health—and the safety of those around you—depends on treating asbestos with the seriousness it demands.