Washing Machine Maintenance: Keep Your Washer in Top Shape

Ever wonder why your washing machine gets noisy or leaves clothes soggy? Most of those problems are avoidable with a little regular care. A few simple habits can save you money, keep your laundry fresh, and stop you from calling a repair tech every month.

Everyday Care Routine

First up, treat the door seal like a bathroom mat – wipe it down after each load. Sweat, lint, and detergent residue love to hide there, and they can cause mould or a bad smell. A quick swipe with a damp cloth does the trick.

Second, don’t slam the door shut. Leaving it slightly ajar lets the drum dry out, which reduces mildew. If you live in a humid area, pop the door open for a few minutes after the cycle ends.

Third, watch your load size. Over‑loading squeezes the drum and stresses the motor. Follow the manufacturer’s weight limit – it’s usually printed inside the door. A balanced load also spins better, so your clothes come out less wet.

Fourth, use the right amount of detergent. Too much soap creates excess suds that can’t rinse away, leaving residue that clogs the pump. Check the label on your detergent; most modern liquids need just a scoop for a full load.

Periodic Deep Cleaning

Every month or two, run an empty hot‑water cycle with a cup of white vinegar. The acidity breaks down mineral build‑up and kills bacteria. If your machine has a dedicated cleaning program, use that instead.

Don’t forget the detergent drawer. Pull it out, rinse it under warm water, and scrub any crusty bits with a soft brush. A dirty drawer can spill extra soap into the drum, causing suds overload.

Check the inlet hoses for cracks or kinks. A slow‑dripping hose not only wastes water but can let in sediment that clogs the filter. Replace hoses every five years as a precaution.

If you have hard water, run a descaling cycle every three to six months. You can buy a commercial descaler or use two cups of citric acid dissolved in hot water. This keeps the heating element and pump free from scale, which improves efficiency.

Finally, listen for odd noises. A thumping sound might mean a foreign object is trapped between the drum and tub. Clear the drum and remove any coins, hairpins, or small toys before they cause damage.

When you keep up with these steps, your washer stays quiet, cleans better, and lasts longer. If you notice leaks, error codes, or the machine won’t spin, it’s time to call a professional. Regular maintenance reduces the odds of surprise breakdowns, but a trained technician can spot hidden issues before they become costly repairs.