Washing machines help keep your clothes clean, and you might think that it cleans itself too? Sadly, this is not the case. The average family uses the machine for 10 laundry loads per week, and sometimes even more. Now that’s a lot of use when you think about it.
With the amount of laundry we put in our washing machines each week, there’s no doubt that it starts to get grubby and even starts to smell bad. To avoid this, there are ways to maintain it without spending too much.
Use the correct type of detergent
Check that you’re using the right type of detergent for your machine. For example, high-efficiency machines perform best with low-sudsing detergent, so check for “HE” on the detergent label to confirm you’re using the right kind.
Don’t use too much detergent
The friction caused by clothes rubbing against each other is what helps get your clothes clean. Too much detergent can cause excess suds and cushioning between your clothes, reducing the amount of friction needed to get them clean. Not only that, but excess detergent can lead to buildup, which can put extra wear and tear on the machine. Follow the instructions for measuring detergent as this can help safeguard against using too much.
Don’t overload the machine
All washing machines have a maximum capacity for what they’re able to hold. You risk damaging the machine if you put in more than it can handle. Try not to stuff the machine too full of clothes. And for things like bulky blankets and comforters, consider taking those to a laundromat where they have high-capacity machines specifically made to handle bulkier items. Source: State Farm
Clean your washing machine often.
Speaking of mold—when’s the last time you cleaned your washer? Front-load washers are especially notorious for getting dirty, and all washers should be cleaned every month or two. We have a list of tips for cleaning your washing machine thoroughly.
Clean the lint filter in your washer.
Many homeowners aren’t aware that most washing machines have lint traps. If you notice a lot of fuzz on your clothing, it might be because of a clogged lint trap. Check out our instructions for finding and cleaning a washing machine lint trap. Source: Mr. Appliance
Inspect the hoses
Unattended, a burst water hose can spill hundreds of gallons an hour into your home. To prevent this calamity, inspect your hoses several times a year. If you see cracks or breaks, unplug the machine, turn off the water supply on both hoses and replace them, preferably with braided, metal hoses that can’t split open.
Also, use a bristle brush to clean the filters of debris and sediment that reduce the machine’s water flow. Finally, replace your hoses every five years and tape the date on them so you know when you last replaced them.
Don’t forget the exterior
To prevent rusting, fill in scratches and gashes with touch-up paint from your local hardware or home supply store. Use a mild soap to wash the outside surfaces as well as the buttons and control dials to prevent sticking and malfunctions. That goes for your dryer, too. Source: American Home Shield
We hope that with these maintenance tips, your washing machine always remains in tip-top condition. But if for some reason you’re looking for some expert to do some professional repairs, then our team will fix it for you. Just contact us on our website and we’ll see you as soon as possible!