Washing machines are a common household appliance, and improper use can lead to premature wear and tear. Here are six tips to help you use your washing machine more effectively and prolong its lifespan.
1 Choose a Suitable Location for Your Washing Machine
It is important to choose the right location for your washing machine to ensure its efficient and long-term performance. First, consider the size of your machine and select an appropriate space in your home. Avoid placing it in tight spaces as this will make using the machine difficult and inconvenient. Likewise, do not place it in an overly spacious area, as this can lead to wasted space.
Maintain a 5-10cm gap between the machine and other objects to allow for better operation. This prevents the machine from colliding with or being obstructed by surrounding objects.
Choose a suitable location for your washing machine
2 Avoid Overloading the Machine
To protect your washing machine and ensure optimal washing performance, do not overload it with too many clothes. Overloading the drum beyond its specified capacity can lead to various issues.
When the machine is overloaded, the motor works harder, causing imbalance and vigorous shaking. This not only results in inadequate cleaning but also increases electricity and time consumption. Overloading can also lead to machine malfunctions and reduced lifespan.
On the other hand, underloading the machine is also not optimal. If the load is significantly less than the specified capacity, the machine will waste electricity and water.
Avoid overloading the washing machine
3 Sort Your Laundry Before Washing
Sorting laundry before washing is essential for protecting both your clothes and your washing machine. Sort your clothes according to fabric type to prevent fiber damage caused by washing different fabrics together. Sorting also enables more effective machine operation, ensuring cleaner clothes without color bleeding or dirt transfer.
For delicate fabrics like silk, wool, and knits that are prone to tearing or stretching, consider using a laundry bag before placing them in the machine. Additionally, always check pockets for small items like coins, ribbons, buttons, or hangers, as these can damage both the machine and your clothes.
Sort your laundry before washing
4 Level the Washing Machine
If your home space is limited and you must place the washing machine in an alternative location like a balcony, rooftop, or bathroom, ensure that it is leveled properly. It is best to use a pedestal or base to stabilize the machine and prevent potential issues.
An unlevel washing machine can cause problems such as water intake issues, a tilted drum that creates noise during operation, and unstable performance. These issues can result in inadequate cleaning, increased energy consumption, and potential damage to the motor.
Additionally, place the machine in a dry and well-ventilated area to prevent moisture-related damage. Washing machines are electronic devices, and prolonged exposure to damp conditions can lead to malfunctions.
Level the washing machine
5 Clean and Maintain Your Washing Machine Regularly
Proper cleaning and maintenance of your washing machine are crucial for its efficient and long-lasting performance. Here are the steps you can take:
Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure safer and more efficient machine operation, resulting in cleaner laundry. It also helps identify potential issues early on, allowing for timely repairs and preventing more severe problems in the future.
Clean and maintain your washing machine regularly
6 Use Machine-Specific Detergent for Soaking and Washing
Using machine-specific detergent is an effective way to protect your washing machine and your clothes. If your machine has a soaking function, select this option before starting the wash cycle. Soaking clothes for about 20 minutes helps loosen stubborn stains before the wash cycle begins.
After soaking, place the clothes in the drum and use a detergent specifically designed for your type of washing machine. These detergents are formulated to prevent blockages or damage to the drum while enhancing cleaning performance.
To avoid waste, use the appropriate amount of detergent based on the load size and the machine’s instructions. Using the correct amount will save resources and ensure optimal cleaning performance.
Use machine-specific detergent for soaking and washing
These are our six tips for using your washing machine more effectively and prolonging its lifespan. We hope you found this article helpful. Thank you for reading!