I use old rags for cleaning my chain on my bike and I'm wondering if/how I should wash them. I could just throw them away and buy those rags that are several in a pack, used in automotive shops and throw them away when soiled. That seems wasteful though. I know you can buy degreaser at hardware stores, but I don't know if it's safe to use in a home washing machine. Of course I would wash the rags alone with nothing else, but I want to make sure the oily residue gets off the rags and not stick in my washer to contaminate my next load.

Looked online and some treat with full strength simple green first, then wash normally with regular laundry detergent.

I'd appreciate any insights. I cleaned the chain for the first time on my new (5 month old) bike tonight and have a pile of dirty rags! Whoohoo.