Let's be honest, a washing machine is one of the most used yet overlooked appliances in most households. We hardly pay attention to it until it starts making a sound like a jet engine ready for takeoff. A washing machine is a 'set it and forget it' appliance that takes a fair amount of abuse while still performing admirably. However, the good news is that you don't need to be a mechanic to make yours last years longer. A few small habits can keep your device as good as new. Read on and try these simple tips.
Stop Overstuffing the Drum
We have all been there, trying to shove that last towel in to avoid running a second load. But overloading is the fastest way to kill your machine. It puts a massive strain on the motor and the bearings that keep the drum spinning. If the machine starts 'walking' across the floor during the spin cycle, that is a cry for help. Try to keep it about three-quarters full at most.
Ease Up on the Soap
It feels like more soap should mean cleaner clothes, but it is actually the opposite. Modern machines use very little water, and excess detergent creates a sudsy mess that does not rinse away. This residue builds up inside the outer tub and hoses, eventually smelling like a swamp and attracting mold. Usually, a tablespoon or two is plenty for a standard load.
The 'Open Door' Policy
This is the simplest tip on the list: when you are done with the laundry, leave the door open. Front-loaders, especially, have airtight seals. If you close the door while the interior is still damp, you are basically building an incubator for mold and mildew. Letting it air out prevents that sour smell from transferring to your clean clothes.
Clean the Secret Filter
Did you know your washer has a trash can? Most front-loading machines have a small hatch at the bottom. Inside is a filter that catches everything from loose change and bobby pins to thick clumps of dog hair. If this gets clogged, your pump has to work overtime to drain the water. Pop it open every few months (keep a towel handy for spills) and give it a rinse.
Swap Out the Hoses
Take a peek behind your machine. If you see old, black rubber hoses, you are playing a dangerous game. Over time, those hoses can become brittle and burst, which can flood your house in minutes. It is a smart move to replace them every five years with burst-proof stainless steel braided hoses. It is a cheap insurance policy against a massive headache.
Run a Hot Vinegar Wash
Every once in a while, the machine needs a bath of its own. Once a month, run an empty cycle on the hottest setting with a cup or two of white vinegar (or a dedicated cleaning tablet). This helps break down the limescale from hard water and strips away the residue left behind by fabric softeners and detergents.
Check the Pockets
It sounds basic, but a single stray coin or a screw from a DIY project can do a shocking amount of damage. Metal objects can get caught in the drum's tiny holes or find their way into the drain line, potentially puncturing parts that are expensive to fix. Make a habit of checking every single pocket before the clothes hit the water.
