Washing Machine Maintenance Tips

Washing machines often need their own maintenance and cleaning.  There are some simple things that you can do that can make a huge difference in reducing wear and tear on your washer.  After all, washing machines are a big investment – and are very expensive.  You want to ensure you take good care of them so they can last a long time. Washing machines need to be cleaned every once in a while, which can help with smell, mold, and even mildew.  

Washing Machine To-Do List

When it comes to your washing machine, it is important to be mindful of the working parts and what you are putting in it.  Here are some tips on prolonging the life of your washing machine.

1. One of the most overworked parts on your washing machine is the hoses. The same reason that they seem to be the most common part to break down.  It is important to check the hoses on the washing machine every month for bulges, cracks, or even the fitting coming loose.   A broken hose can result in water damage in and outside of the washing machine.
2. Another common mistake washing machine owners do is overloading their machines.  It is understandable when life catches up to us and there is a pile of laundry left behind to do.  It is beneficial to break your laundry loads into smaller sizes.  An excessively heavy load will put stress on the bearings of your machine, which in turn could cause premature appliance failure.  Even in extreme cases your clothes can get lodged between the door seal and the inner drum of the machine, leaving your clothes ripped and damaged.  
3. When it comes to laundry detergent, it is important to provide your clothes with a good smell and softening.  Too many suds in your washer can lead to more wash cycles needed, leading to gallons of water wasted every time.  Most energy efficient washing machines require a low-sudsing detergent.  It is important to check what kind of washing machine you have at home and what detergent would optimize each wash.  
4. Using the right detergent is just as important as finding the correct detergent to use.  If there is too much it can leave a residue behind that is hard on the machine.  Pods will make your life easier, as they are already measured out to the correct amount needed for each wash.  If you prefer to use liquid, it is important to pay attention to your pouring size according to the manufacturer.  
5. Cleaning the washing machine door and gasket once a month will help you with keeping odors away from your laundry.  A quick tip when it comes to cleaning this area is to use half water and half vinegar mix this will provide a detailed deep clean to the surface.  
6. If you have ever smelled something after taking a load of laundry out, it may be due to the fact that you need to let the machine air out.  Leaving the door open after taking out  a load of laundry will give it the chance for the smell and particles to break down.  Moisture build up in the machine can lead to mildew.  
7. Another common leading factor of mildew in the laundry room is when wet clothes from the washing machine are left stagnant too long.  Clothes should be transferred to the dryer as soon as possible to avoid any run-ins with mildew.  
8. Cleaning the interior and dispensers is very important to ensure that you do not have any build up of residue and smell. Cleaning your washing machine will make your life easier in the long haul, keeping the machine happy and healthy.  A good way to keep up with this maintenance is to run an empty load once a month. Run the load with hot water and two cups of vinegar and a half scoop of detergent.  

Contact Soil Away

If you have experienced any flooding or mold damage from a broken appliance, Soil Away is here to help.  Our experienced team is happy to assist with the process. For more information on appliance failure contact us today at 603.641.6555 or by filling out a contact form on our website.  We look forward to hearing from you!