Do’s and Don’ts of Wash Machine
Proper use and maintenance of your washing machine can extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs. Here are the key dos and don’ts for daily use and upkeep.
The Do’s: Essential Practices
Leave the door/lid open: After a wash, leave the door or lid open to allow the interior to dry. This is the best way to prevent mold, mildew, and musty odors.
Clean the filters: Check and clean the drain pump filter (usually behind a small panel at the bottom) and the lint trap regularly to ensure proper drainage and prevent odors.
Use the right detergent: Use HE (High Efficiency) detergent if you have an HE machine. Using regular detergent can cause excess suds that may damage the machine’s internal components.
Check pockets: Always empty all pockets before loading. Coins, keys, and hairpins can severely damage the wash drum, pump, or glass door.
Use mesh bags: Place small or delicate items (like baby socks, lingerie, or masks) in mesh laundry bags to prevent them from getting sucked into the drainage system or snagged.
Level the machine: Ensure your washer is balanced on the floor. An uneven machine can vibrate excessively, causing damage to the motor and your floors.
The Don’ts: Common Mistakes
Don’t overload: Fill the drum only about 75% full. Overloading strains the motor and suspension, and prevents clothes from moving freely enough to get clean.
Don’t use too much detergent: More soap does not mean cleaner clothes.
Excessive detergent can leave residue on fabrics and gum up the machine’s internal sensors and pumps.
Don’t leave wet clothes sitting: Remove wet laundry as soon as the cycle ends. Leaving damp clothes in the machine encourages mold growth on the door seal and in the drum.
Don’t wash flammable stains: Never put items soaked in gasoline, oil, or alcohol in the washer. These chemicals are highly flammable and can lead to a fire or explosion during the wash or dry cycle.
Don’t ignore the hoses: Inspect the water inlet hoses every few years for cracks or bulges. A burst hose can cause massive flooding in minutes.
Items to Keep OUT
Certain items should never go in the machine as they can be ruined or cause damage:
Memory Foam: The agitation can shred memory foam pillows or pads.
Items with Pet Hair: Excessive fur can clump together when wet and clog your drain pump and pipes.
Coins and Keys: These are the most common causes of mechanical failure in washing machines.
Waterproof items: Jackets like raincoats can trap water and create a “balloon” effect that can violently unbalance the machine during the spin cycle.
