Washing machines are one of the most common modern household appliances, and they are also among the most commonly used for daily household tasks. This is especially true in households with children, where multiple loads of laundry might pass through the washing machine every day. However, washing machines are not infallible—they can wear down, break, and eventually require washing machine repair to fix them up. One of the ways to reduce the amount of washing machine repair you’ll need on your appliance is to practice good maintenance; the following are 4 tips to keeping your washing machine in great shape that you really can’t miss.
Tip: Remember to wash your washing machine
You should clean your washing machine about once a week when it’s being regularly used. Using the machine causes build-up of dirt and various debris; over time, this can damage the machine and require washing machine repair. However, preventing these issues can be as simple as wiping your machine down with a wet wash cloth to rinse away any detergent or debris build-up, or it may require a washing machine cleaning liquid for a “deep clean.” The frequency of your washing machine cleaning will depend on how often you use it, the model of washing machine, and how dirty it tends to get each week.
Tip: Open the door when not in use
Most people don’t think about the amount of moisture inside a washing machine, but it’s definitely there; and if left unchecked, it can cause a build up of mildew and other debris that will damage your washing machine. The best way to avoid this is to open the washing machine door after every load, and give the machine time to rest in between. This will let the moisture inside the washing machine to evaporate, reducing the risk of nasty build-up.
Tip: Take clothes out immediately after they’re finished
It might require you to set aside a task for the moment, but you should always take your wet clothes out of the washer and (ideally!) put them right into the dryer after the washing machine cycle is over. The reason for this is that the damp clothes can promote the growth of bacteria when left to sit for too long. This can result in everything from a terrible musty odour to the build-up of mildew, which is definitely not good for your machine in the long run.
Tip: Take it easy on the machine
Washing machines can actually be damaged by frequent high-energy use, which causes wear and tear on the motor and other internal parts. When these parts become damaged, you will need to call a washing machine repair service to fix the damage. The most common way that these internal parts become worn down is through using the highest and strongest spin cycles too frequently—while these cycles may get your clothes a bit less damp before you toss them into the dryer, it can be taxing on your machine and is best used sparingly.