While I wouldn't recommend a washing machine, I have been known to use a dishwasher to clean electronic boards. Some of the radios I repair have had visitors that like to leave surprises in the equipment. A trip through the dishwasher and a rinse of distilled water usually bring it to near new status.
You're lucky, I've found that switches and displays do not like getting wet, But TV remotes seem to like it.
OK, so, last week I'm busy websurfing away, and enjoying an "adult" beverage. None of my computers live in cases, they're just sitting on a shelf, out in the open. Well, I went to grab said beverage, and knocked it over, all over 2 of the 3 motherboards. Instantly, I shut everything off, at the power supplies, pulled apart the computers, and went to Fry's before they closed to get a couple bottles of alcohol. (No, not that kind, rubbing alcohol.)
Rinsed off both boards and let them air dry overnight. Re-assembled the computers,and tested them. One wouldn't power up. Set it in a plastic tray, and soaked the end that got wet originally, in the rest of the rubbing alcohol overnight. Next morning, I set it out to dry for a day.
Re-assembled the secong rig, and all 3 are up and running.
Never thought about using a dishwasher, but then again, I don't have one.
steve