DIY Distress: When Your Washing Machine Becomes a Time Machine

I recently had a period-specific uniform for a background actor that needed to look heavily worn and almost threadbare, but still hold together for multiple takes. Instead of traditional sanding or using files, I decided to go a more aggressive, DIY route: a good old-fashioned washing machine and some laundry detergent as a chemical distressor. I soaked the uniform in a strong solution of hot water and heavy-duty laundry detergent overnight, then put it through multiple cycles on the hottest setting with a few tennis balls thrown in for extra agitation. What worked beautifully was the combination of the hot water, chemical breakdown from the detergent, and relentless tumbling. The fabric softened dramatically, stitching started to loosen just enough for that 'on the verge of falling apart' look, and the color faded unevenly, mimicking years of wear. What didn't work so well was the tennis balls leaving faint, localized circular marks on one patch, so I had to adjust my technique and ensure they weren't in direct contact for too long. Have others found unexpected household items to be surprisingly effective distressing tools?