Millions of people across the globe pull money in notes and coins out of their washers and dryers every day.
That means that millions of euros are being retrieved by homeowners who forget to check the pockets of jeans, trousers, jackets, and jumpers before putting them on for a wash.
According to data released today by sustainable wet cleaning service Oxwash, in the UK alone, people retrieved €424,416,595 in €20 notes, €241,831,325 in tenners, and €146,464,959 in fivers.
READ MORE: Experts say common washing machine mistake is costing you money
The same report found that we also frequently wash wallets, headphones, coins, watches, lottery tickets, scratch cards, jewellery, credit cards, phones, passports, makeup, and stamps.
More than one in ten said they have accidentally laundered a lottery or scratch card and another 7 percent said they have washed mobile phones in the past year.
Nasa Scientist, Dr. Kyle Grant, founder of sustainable wet cleaning service Oxwash, which commissioned the research, said: “Since we launched in 2017, we’ve successfully reunited customers with several sets of headphones, wallets, and cash that’s accidentally been left in pockets.
“Leaving money in pockets is so easily done, but don’t despair if you find a shrunk or torn note in the drum at home.
If you’ve ever wondered where your cash ends up in your washing machine, the Oxwash CEO added “Little wins that give our finances an unexpected boost do wonders to brighten up our day. One of the lesser-known hiding places for coins and jewellery in your washing machines and tumble dryers is in the seal around the door.
“Gently pry open the rubber to create a gap between the seal and the inner metal drum rim and carefully rotate the drum while checking for lost items.
“Another great place to check is the filter. Typically located on the front bottom corner, flip open the cover and pull out the filter. Fingers crossed, any stray coins, notes or missing jewellery will be found nestled within the lint.
“Both are definitely worth checking periodically as a lady in the US once fished out over $100 from a compartment in her drier.”
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