A lighter or other hazardous pocket item does not belong in either stage. Washing and subsequent heating can create risks beyond an ordinary forgotten coin or tissue.
Understanding this situation
Empty pockets before loading and inspect workwear, bags and children's garments according to their care instructions. A laundry bag cannot make a dangerous object safe to process inside the machine.
A useful next step
If a lighter is discovered after a cycle or is believed to be inside, stop further use and seek appropriate advice. Do not run the drying stage to see whether it appears, and do not reach into concealed spaces or dismantle the machine yourself.
Manuals and supporting guidance
Model-specific instructions take priority. These references support the practical principles discussed here; they do not diagnose your appliance.