Washing Machine Care: Simple Habits That Keep It Running Well

A washing machine is one of the hardest working appliances in any home. It runs several times a week, deals with mud, sweat, sand and spills, and rarely gets any attention until something goes wrong. A few minutes of care every so often keeps it clean, stops musty smells and helps it last longer. Here is a simple routine anyone can follow.

Keep the Drum and Door Seal Clean

Front-loading machines have a rubber seal around the door that keeps water in. It also traps fluff, hair, coins and moisture, which can lead to mould and bad smells if it is left alone.

• Wipe the seal with a dry cloth after your last wash of the day, pulling back the folds to reach the inside.
• Once a month, clean it with warm soapy water and dry it well.
• Leave the door slightly open between washes so air can circulate and the drum can dry out.
• Run an empty hot wash, or a maintenance cycle if your machine has one, every month or so. A washing machine cleaner can help, used as the pack directs.

Clean the Detergent Drawer and Filter

The detergent drawer builds up a sticky layer of powder, liquid and fabric conditioner over time. Most drawers pull out completely when you press a release tab. Soak it in warm water, scrub away residue with an old toothbrush and wipe out the space it slides into before putting it back.

Many machines also have a drain pump filter, usually behind a small panel at the bottom front. It catches small objects that would otherwise block the pump. Check your manual for how to reach it, and put a shallow tray and a towel down first, as some water will come out. Clear any fluff or debris, then refit it firmly so it does not leak. Doing this every few months helps the machine drain properly.

Load It the Right Way

How you use your machine makes as much difference as how you clean it.

• Do not overload the drum. Clothes need room to move to get clean, and overloading puts strain on the drum bearings.
• Use the right amount of detergent. More is not better. Too much leaves residue in the drum and on clothes. Follow the dosing guide on the pack for your load size and how dirty it is.
• Empty pockets. Coins, keys and hair grips can damage the drum or block the filter.
• Use laundry bags for small items. Socks, underwear and delicates are less likely to get lost or caught when washed in mesh laundry bags.
• Close zips and fasten hooks so they do not snag other clothes or the drum.

Check the Hoses and Position

Every so often, look behind the machine. Check that the inlet and drain hoses are not kinked, cracked or bulging, and that the connections are tight. A machine that rocks or walks across the floor during the spin cycle may not be level. Adjust the feet until it sits firmly on all four corners.

If your machine starts leaking, making unusual noises or showing error codes, check the manual first and contact a qualified engineer if the problem continues. With a little regular care, though, most machines will keep doing their job quietly for years. If yours is ready to be replaced, browse our washing machines for a new model.