The washing machine is an invaluable household appliance that now shoulders much of the drudgery families faced before its invention. Washing clothes by hand is grueling, while trips to the laundromat are inconvenient, so a washer breakdown can be a real hassle. Below are some tips to help you avoid that and to extend the life of your washing machine.

3 Tips to Extend the Life of Your Clothes Washer

1. Do Not Overload It

It may be tempting to overload the washer and cram all your laundry into one load. But it results in laundry that doesn't get clean, and it wears out the machine. Most standard-capacity washing machines can hold 7 to 8 pounds of laundry, while high-capacity machines can handle about 12. Beyond those amounts, the extra weight puts excess wear and tear on the motor and agitator.

2. Empty Your Pockets

Always check and empty your pockets before placing clothes in the washer. Metal objects like keys, coins, and the like can damage the drum and outer tub. Worse, gum and facial tissue can clog the drain. It is a good practice to remove all items from your pockets upon tossing the item of clothing into the laundry hamper, and then double-checking before you load the washer.

3.  Clean the Washer

Damp clothes left in the appliance can start to mold and smell. This can transfer to the machine, so it leaves an unpleasant odor on other clothes. To avoid this, clean the washer monthly. Some models feature a maintenance cycle and come with instructions for cleaning. 

If yours does not, clean the filter and empty the drain hose. Remove and clean the detergent door, and then Clean the machine by pouring 1/4 cup of chlorine bleach OR 2 cups of white vinegar into the drum. You may also buy a commercially available washing machine cleaner. Run a normal cycle without adding clothes. Finish by wiping down the outside of the machine.

If your washer or dryer has given up the ghost, contact Boyd Appliance Center in Creston, IA for a great selection of new ones. They have served Union County and the surrounding areas for more than 70 years. In addition to laundry equipment, they also stock all manner of kitchen appliances—like stoves, dishwashers, freezers, smokers, and refrigerators. They are renowned throughout the region for their great prices, friendly staff, and customer focus. Learn more about them on their website or call (641) 782-2163 to discuss washer and dryer options, pricing, and availability.