Like all home appliances, washing machines are meant to streamline your daily tasks and make things easier for you. However, that's only if it's working correctly. If it's malfunctioning and you need washing machine repairs, it'll certainly hamper your scheduling. Thankfully, like any major appliance, proper usage is critical to maintenance. But, of course, doing so also offers the benefit of thoroughly cleaning your clothes and linens. To maximize the cleanliness of your laundry and minimize the likelihood of repairs, here's what you need to know. 

How to Wash Laundry More Efficiently

1. Follow the Directions for Detergent Levels

No matter how caked with mud or stained with food something is, avoid the temptation of using more detergent than necessary. Using more won't make the item cleaner; it will simply make it more difficult to fully clean. You'll either have to rinse it a few more times or witness the motor spinning too fast to drain out the excess suds. In both situations, you'll be using too much unnecessary energy and wearing out the motor prematurely. Although it depends exactly on the wear and tear, this can be an expensive washing machine repair. 

2. Empty Out & Dry Up the Washer 

Never keep damp laundry in the washer for too long. It's not a problem if you're waiting for the dryer to finish a load, but leaving wet items in the drum overnight could lead to mold growth inside the machine and musty-smelling clothing. If you can't dry something within that time frame, hang them on a clothesline or drying rack. If you're short on space, you can use some hangers and towel bars in the bathroom. Once the washer drum is empty for the day, wipe down any excess moisture with a clean rag and leave the door open to air out and thoroughly dry it up.

3. Use Cold Wash for Most Loads

Most fabrics do not require hot or even warm water for a thorough cleaning. In fact, for some fabrics, higher temperatures can wear down the surface and make them rougher to the touch. Unless you need washing machine repairs because the drum isn't spinning properly, the combination of the correct amount of soap and agitation will clean the material. As a bonus, cold water is more energy-efficient since the machine doesn't need to heat anything. Note: while using cold wash is great for most loads, for sheets and towels, hot water is vital for helping kill any bacteria that may be in the fibers. 

If you're still doing these things and having issues with your machine, contact K Appliance for washing machine repairs. Based in Anchorage, AK, they've been the home appliance experts in the region for over 40 years. Other than repairs, they also have a variety of major appliances for sale. To learn more about everything they offer, visit their website or call (907) 272-0626.