Should You Put Dry or Wet Clothes in the Washing Machine?

The art of effective washing machine maintenance and care is a topic of great importance to both experts and manufacturers alike. The correct usage and care procedures have a direct impact on the machine's performance and longevity, and thus, it is vital that users are educated on this matter.

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To find the answer, users need to understand the specifications of their washing machine.

Expert Advice

Many users believe that putting dry or wet clothes in the machine is equally reasonable. After all, the clothes will be rinsed, treated with detergent, and spun once they are inside. However, experts advise that it is best to put dry clothes into the washing machine, ensuring they are not soaked or excessively damp.

Should you put dry or wet clothes in the washing machine?

Putting wet clothes into the washing machine can be a detrimental mistake, potentially damaging the appliance and creating an environment for bacteria to thrive inside the drum.

If you don’t intend to wash the clothes immediately and they happen to be soaked or heavily perspired, it is advisable to wring them out or hang them outside to dry before putting them into the washing machine.

The recommendation to use dry clothes in the washing machine is also based on the weight specifications provided by the manufacturer. Specifically, according to Global Weighing News, the numbers 7kg, 8kg, and 10kg on washing machines indicate the corresponding weight of dry clothes that can be accommodated.

Once the dry clothes are placed inside the drum, the machine will add a certain amount of water before commencing the washing process. Therefore, using wet clothes can inadvertently overload the drum, making it heavier than the specified limit, thereby posing a risk of inefficient operation and potential severe damage over time.

In addition to using dry clothes, users should also refrain from cramming too many clothes into the machine. Aim for a load that fills about 70-80% or 2/3 of the drum’s capacity, allowing sufficient space for the clothes to be effectively cleaned and spun.

For instance, 1kg of laundry would typically comprise 1 dress shirt and 2 pairs of thick jeans, or 5 dress shirts, or 2 bath towels; 5kg of laundry could include 5 dress shirts and 5 pairs of thick jeans, or 25 dress shirts, or 10 bath towels; and so on.

For bulkier items, such as bedding, these require more space inside the machine for optimal cleaning. Therefore, it’s important to balance the load and not overload the machine with too many items in a single cycle.

Important Notes on Using a Washing Machine

Choose and use the appropriate detergent

Unlike top-loading washing machines, which are more forgiving, front-loading machines require the use of detergent specifically designed for them, as it creates fewer suds, effectively cleans clothes, and prevents residue buildup, thus prolonging the life of your appliance.

Purchase detergent from reputable stores to ensure authenticity, optimal cleaning, and skin safety. Additionally, when adding detergent to the machine, use the amount recommended by the manufacturer, neither scant nor excessive, to protect your machine and achieve the best cleaning results.

Inspect and put an appropriate amount of clothes into the machine

Before loading clothes into the machine, ensure you remove any objects from the pockets. It is also advisable to zip or button your garments, untangle balled-up socks, and turn delicate garments like sweaters and t-shirts inside out.

These steps help protect the drum, reduce friction, and extend the lifespan of your appliance. Furthermore, only load the recommended quantity of clothes to ensure efficient operation and energy conservation.

Adjust the water level accordingly

For older washing machines with fewer wash cycles, it is crucial to adjust the water level according to the amount of clothing. The ideal ratio of water weight to clothing weight is 20:1.

Properly adjusting the water level conserves water and prevents the machine from operating under a water-overload condition, which could shorten its lifespan.

Air-dry clothes promptly after washing and avoid overnight drying

Some people prefer washing their clothes in the evening and letting them air-dry overnight. However, this practice is not advisable as damp clothes left in the closed machine provide an ideal environment for bacterial growth.

Once the washing cycle is complete, promptly remove the clothes and hang them to dry, ensuring you also leave the machine door open to allow the interior to dry and breathe.

Regularly clean and maintain your washing machine

Maintain your washing machine by regularly cleaning its exterior and detergent compartments, preventing dust accumulation, and keeping it looking new. It is recommended to perform a thorough cleaning of the entire machine every 2 to 3 weeks.

Pay particular attention to the drum, as it comes into direct contact with your clothes. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your washing machine ensure stable performance, extend its lifespan, enhance cleaning effectiveness, inhibit bacterial growth, and ultimately safeguard your health.

Frequently asked questions

It is generally recommended to put dry clothes in the washing machine. While modern machines can handle both dry and wet clothes, putting wet clothes directly into the washer can lead to mold and bacteria growth, especially if the drum doesn’t dry completely after use.

Putting dry clothes in the washing machine has several advantages. Firstly, it helps ensure a more thorough clean as dirt and stains are more easily lifted from dry fabric. Secondly, it can reduce the risk of musty odors and mildew buildup, which are more likely to occur when wet clothes are left in the machine for extended periods.

Yes, modern washing machines are designed to handle wet clothes. If you have a small load of wet clothes, you can put them directly into the machine. However, it is important to ensure that the drum and its components are dry after use to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

To prevent mold and bacteria growth, it is recommended to leave the washing machine door open after each use to allow the drum to air dry. Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance of your machine, including running a hot water cycle with vinegar or a specialized washing machine cleaner, can help keep it mold-free.

The decision between using a dryer or hang-drying your clothes depends on the type of fabric and your personal preference. Delicate fabrics are often best air-dried to prevent shrinkage or damage. Hang-drying in a well-ventilated area can also help reduce energy costs associated with running a dryer.
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