Although your washing machine is crucial for maintaining a clean wardrobe, many people overlook the importance of proper practices and appliance maintenance. Fortunately, by making a few simple changes, you can protect the device. Here are a few mistakes you may be making and how to change your ways.

Common Washing Machine Errors to Avoid

1. Forgetting to Empty Pockets

Always check and empty pant and shirt pockets before you wash clothes, and keep a garbage can handy for trash. Small objects, like loose change, toys, and receipts, can come loose during the cycle and damage the interior of the machine.

These objects can also clog the appliance’s drain filter. If the drain filter clogs, your washer can’t properly wring water from clothing, putting an extra strain on the dryer. To avoid drainage issues, check the filter during routine appliance maintenance.

2. Packing the Drum

Although stuffing your washing machine may seem like an economical choice, it can damage the system. The fuller your washing machine is, the heavier the clothing will weigh when it’s saturated with water. Heavy clothes put unnecessary strain on the washer. Pack clothes loosely into the drum, leaving about six inches of space between the top of the clothing and the machine’s lid.

3. Using Too Much Soap

Since laundry soap smells fresh and clean, many people err on the side of overusing detergent as opposed to using as little as possible. Unfortunately, adding too much laundry soap can leave behind a residue in the basin that creates a foul odor. To prevent problems, only use about a tablespoon of laundry detergent for a normal load.

If you start to experience problems with your washing machine, give us a call at MB Appliance in Lahaina, HI. With over 25 years of professional appliance maintenance and repair experience, our team can help you to extend the life of your home equipment by offering fast, efficient service. Send us an appliance maintenance service request online, or give our office a call at (808) 669-6860.