How to care for your washing machine and dryer
Taking care of your washing machine and dryer will not only help them go the distance, but it’ll help you get the best results from every load. Below are some tips and tricks to help you best care for your washing machine and dryer:
Always check your pockets
Things like coins and keys can cause chaos in a washing machine or dryer, and cause some serious damage. Other items, like tissues, paper and food wrappers, can break up and clog filters. These may not cause damage, but can hinder the performance of your dryer. Which leads us to our next point…
Check the filter
If the filter is clogged and dirty, it can hinder your washing machine’s performance. It can also lead to the washing machine not draining properly, leaving clothes wet even after a good spin!
In a dryer, lint is actually a fire hazard. And there have been many stories of fires started from an overstuffed filter catching alight. Make sure to regularly clean and empty out any lint from your dryer.
Avoid high-speed spin cycles
Many washing machines can reach spin speeds of 1400rpm or even 1600rpm. In reality, this doesn’t offer much better performance over a more standard speed (800-1200rpm). And, if run too regularly, can come at the cost of wearing down internal parts quicker.
Clean it
The inside of a washing machine may not be something you feel needs to be cleaned. But doing so can really help the performance of your washing machine. Fabric softer can leave a waxy build-up, the door seals can catch lint and debris, or even attract mould. So it’s a good idea to leave the laundry door open after use, to allow it to dry out fully.
Some washing machines may have a service or cleaning cycle. Otherwise try buying a washing machine drum cleaner, or even using a home remedy, such as white vinegar and baking soda.
A clothes dryer should also be cleaned every now and then. Unplug your dryer and wipe down the inside with a damp cloth. This may also be a good idea if you notice a sensor dryer isn’t sensing correctly. Over time sensors in the drum can be affected by residue and build-up, which can impact their performance.
→Related article: Best Washing Machines: A Full Guide
Tips to get the best results from your washing machine and dryer
Don’t overstuff it
This is probably the biggest mistake people make. And it’s hard to blame them. After all, if we can get it all done in one load, we’ll always try to.
But overfilling your washing machine or dryer can severely impact its results. If detergent and water (or hot air) can’t circulate through the items efficiently, they won’t come out very clean, or very dry.
Use an appropriate setting
Again, I know most of us want to get everything done as quickly as possible, but not everything should be put on the speediest setting.
Most modern machines have several modes that are designed to cater for specific loads. If your machine has them, use them. Towels and sheets have different needs to socks and T-shirts.
Maintenance
Go back to the top, and follow the maintenance tips provided. If your appliance isn’t functioning as it once was, chances are it just needs a bit of a clean or a clear out, to get it running back to its best.
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About the author of this page
This report was written by Canstar Content Producer, Andrew Broadley. Andrew is an experienced writer with a wide range of industry experience. Starting out, he cut his teeth working as a writer for print and online magazines, and he has worked in both journalism and editorial roles. His content has covered lifestyle and culture, marketing and, more recently, finance for Canstar.
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