Essential tips and tricks for washing machine maintenance
Like most appliances, we take washing machines for granted ...until they stop working. In this blog post, we share some essential washing machine maintenance tips and DIY tricks to help you keep your front or top loader working for years to come.
Regularly inspect the hoses
- Washing machine hoses are the lifelines of the appliance, getting clean water in and dirty water out. Regularly inspecting them for any signs of wear and tear can prevent water leaks. Look for cracks, bulges, or any signs of dampness in both the inlet hose and the outlet drain hose. It's recommended to replace the hoses every three to five years.
Don't overload the machine
- While it might be tempting to wash all your clothes at once, overloading your washing machine can cause significant problems. It can strain the motor, throw the machine off balance, and lead to inefficient wash cycles. Try to stick to the guidelines in the owner’s manual regarding load sizes. Ideally, this means not loading the drum beyond three-quarters full.
Use the right amount of detergent
- Excessive laundry detergent or fabric softener can lead to a buildup of gunk in your washing machine, affecting its performance and, potentially, its lifespan. Always follow the detergent manufacturer's recommendations for the appropriate amount to use. The detergent dispenser drawer can be easily removed, so it’s a good idea to do so and give it a thorough wash every month or two.
Clean the washing machine regularly
- Cleaning your washing machine might seem odd, but a deep clean is actually a crucial part of maintenance, because dirt, grit, mildew and mould can lead to bigger problems.
Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of detergent, lint, and dirt. Most manufacturers recommend running a hot water cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner, diluted bleach, or baking soda at least once a month.
It’s a good idea to also clean out the lint filter and to give the drum a wipe down with a damp cloth and white vinegar occasionally. A clean washing machine is often a happy washing machine.
Level the machine
- An unbalanced washing machine can become noisy and even move around. To avoid this, ensure your machine is level. Most washing machines have adjustable legs that you can screw in or out to level them.
Leave the door open after use
- Whether you have a front loader or top load washer, leaving the washing machine door open after use allows the interior to dry out and prevents the growth of mould and mildew.
Professional servicing
- While regular maintenance can keep your washing machine in good shape, professional servicing can help detect and address potential issues early. If you’ve invested in a high quality washer, you might want to get it serviced every couple of years.
A well-maintained washing machine is key to efficient laundry operations. By following these tips, you should be able to help your machine keep working away for years to come. If your washer is beyond repair, though, Appliances Online has an enormous range of top and front loading washing machines to choose from, from Samsung, Westinghouse, Fisher & Paykel and other leading brands.
Appliances Online's legendary FREE delivery reaches 95% of Australia's population, and if it’s in stock you’ll usually receive your new washing machine the day after ordering (Mon-Fri). We also offer paid Same Day Delivery in metro NSW, Qld and Vic on weekday orders placed by 12pm. We’ll even take your old top or front load washer away to be recycled, at no charge. For more pointers on choosing a new washer, read our Laundry Buying Guide, call us 24/7 on 1300 000 500, or message us via the chat icon at the bottom right of your screen.