Whether you have a top-loader or front loader, washer/dryer set, or stackable, there is no denying that the washing machine makes your life easier. It is a workhorse appliance in your home cleaning clothes while saving you time and money. If you're new to doing laundry or need a refresher course, use this handy guide of some do's and don'ts to help you get the optimum performance and limit the need for washer repair.

Do:

Separate your clothes.

Separate your clothes by color, making sure to wash garments with bright, vivid colors and jeans in a single wash and white and light-colored clothes in another load. Pigments may bleed in the wash. Cleaning your towels, blankets, and other items typically constructed from shedding materials like wool and flannel will also limit the amount of lint you have to clean from your clothing after a wash.

Use the proper amount of detergent. 

Too much laundry detergent in a wash will not make your clothes cleaner. To avoid smelling like a box of detergent or having stiff clothes or garments flecked with powder detergent, you should follow instructions on the laundry soap packaging, using the recommended amount for the size of the load you are washing. 

Don't:

Put too much in your washer.

Fight the urge to load your washing machine to the top. Overloading could cause damage that requires professional washer repairs. It will also leave your clothes less than clean. Clothes have to spin and undulate in soapy water, rinse, and spin again to wring them out. The drum can become unbalanced when a washer is overloaded, and the spin cycle will fail. Water also won't be able to agitate around the clothes, and garments will be left soap-filled. Make sure to fill your machine to the top of the inner tub, not beyond, for the best cleaning results.

Treat the stains before washing.

Treat stained clothing with a pre-wash solution before placing it in the washing machine to remove the deep stains. Spray a solution of soap and water or a solution containing hydrogen peroxide directly onto the stain. Let it sit for about 20 minutes before washing the item with the same-colored clothing for the best results. 

If you need help with a washer repair, contact Complete Appliance Service in Delhi, OH. These technicians have served homeowners throughout Northern Kentucky and the Greater Cincinnati area since 1980. They'll inspect the appliances and make the necessary repairs or replacements to ensure that you can wash clothes without any problems. Visit them online to learn more about their appliance repair services, or call (513) 661-3708 to schedule assistance.