There are few appliances more important in the modern home than the washing machine. It’s an incredible time-saver, as washing the clothes by hand can take entire hours out of your day. With that being said, washing machines do need a bit of care and maintenance every now and then to ensure you can wash your clothes hands-free. Here are some of the best ways to keep your washing machine in top condition.
Know What Type of Conditioner or Detergent You Should Use
Not all appliances are built the same way. Some TVs use OLED panels whereas others use LCDs, for example. In the same manner, washing machines are made with different materials and tech that may rely on certain products to function properly. Be sure to check your product manual if the washing machine requires any specific laundry detergent. Other products, such as stain removers, fabric softeners, and even laundry scent boosters may not be compatible with the model that you are using. When in doubt, consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer's customer service department.
Clean Inside the Washing Machine Regularly
It may sound funny, but you do need to clean your washing machine every now and then. There are products made for this sort of thing called washing machine cleaners. They’re safe to use in washing machines and are useful for getting any possible dirt or debris build-up in your machine removed. They can also get rid of any leftover dried soap marks or stains in the machine. In the absence of a cleaning solution, you can make your own using vinegar, water, and baking soda. The only downside is the resulting smell, but the detergent should take care of that the next time you wash.
Watch Out for Mold and Mildew Formations
Mold and mildew are nightmares to deal with if the problem is left to grow too large. That’s why they’re best dealt with as soon as they’re spotted. Be sure to check for any possible mold or mildew growth regularly. If you spot any, a bleach solution can help remove any mildew or mold growth in your washing machine. Just don’t use bleach if you’re cleaning stainless steel, as stainless steel and bleach are not a good match.
Use the Right Amount of Detergent
Washing machines recommend up to a certain amount of detergent per single-use. Only use the recommended amount when washing clothes (you can even use a little less to save on detergent). Adding too much detergent not only results in soap residue but can also leave your clothes dirtier than they were before. Some detergent brands may behave differently than others when used in your washing machine, so try experimenting and figure out the best brand and amount for your machine if you can. It’ll save you both money and trouble over time.
Keep the Washing Machine on Even Ground
Depending on where you place the washing machine, you may end up placing it on uneven ground. This is not recommended, as washing machines do move around quite a bit when in use. Uneven ground can cause the machine to move a bit too much, which can damage its internal components. If you must place the washing machine on uneven ground, check if your model has adjustable legs. They can be turned clockwise and counterclockwise to lower and raise their height, respectively, if needed. While not exactly the best solution, you can also place objects below the legs if this option is not available with your model.
Conclusion
With just the occasional cleanup, washing machines are relatively low-maintenance. As long as you look out for mold or mildew growth and keep it in even ground, all you need to do is give it some attention every now and then, and you’ll be running the washing machine with no problems at all.
