What should you avoid while washing a harness to prevent damage?

Washing a harness requires careful attention to preserve its integrity and safety performance. Using a washing machine can be damaging for several reasons. Most harnesses are made from materials that can be adversely affected by the agitation and spinning action of a washing machine. This mechanical action can lead to fraying or weakening of the harness components, particularly the webbing and stitching. Additionally, a washing machine may not clean the harness thoroughly in all areas, including crevices where dirt and debris can remain trapped, potentially compromising safety.

It's essential to wash harnesses by hand using mild soap and warm water to ensure that all parts are gently cleaned without the risk of physical damage from a machine. Other options, such as fabric softeners, drying in direct sunlight, or using hot water, may also pose risks but are not as immediately detrimental as machine washing in terms of mechanical damage. Therefore, avoiding machine washing is crucial for maintaining the harness's functional reliability and safety longevity.