Tips&TricksExtend your washing machine's life with this simple trick

Extend your washing machine's life with this simple trick

The man opens the washing machine.

Images source: © Getty Images | Kateryna Artsybasheva

2:28 PM EDT, May 3, 2024

A washing machine is a fundamental appliance in nearly every household. Before you rush to load your clothes into a new washing machine, there's a simple trick you should know that could significantly extend the appliance's lifespan.

The market offers washing machines equipped with advanced technology. Washer-dryer combos, which offer the convenience of two appliances in one, are particularly popular. If you've just bought a new washing machine, hold off on doing laundry just yet. To ensure your machine serves you well for many years, there's a straightforward trick you should try first.

What to do after buying a new washing machine?

With technological advancements, washing machines now offer features like drying and disinfecting, in addition to washing. However, acquiring a new machine can be a significant financial investment, with modern models priced between $750 and $1,500. Naturally, you'd want your machine to last as long as possible.

How to extend the life of a new washing machine? It's advisable not to use it straight away. Having just come off the production line, your new washing machine's drum may harbour bacteria that could contaminate your clothes. Before the first wash, inspect the machine carefully. Look for any packaging materials, foam plugs, or loose parts inside the drum or detergent dispenser, and remove them. It's also crucial to remove the shipping bolts, which secure the drum during transportation.

Next, prepare a soft microfiber cloth and a bowl of warm water mixed with two tablespoons of baking soda. Use this solution to clean the drum, dispenser, and door thoroughly, then allow them to air dry. For the initial wash cycle, don't add any laundry. Place a heaping tablespoon of baking soda in the detergent dispenser and run the machine empty on a regular cycle. The baking soda will disinfect the new parts, ensuring your washing machine is clean and ready for use.

How to clean the washing machine?

To maximize your new washing machine's longevity, it's important to clean it regularly. You can use affordable, effective household items you likely already have, such as baking soda and vinegar. These ingredients are known for their antibacterial and antifungal properties, helping eliminate bacteria and odors.

To clean your washing machine, start by adding a cup of vinegar to the detergent dispenser and sprinkling baking soda inside the drum. Run the machine at the highest temperature setting. Once the cycle is finished, open the drum and dispenser, letting them dry completely. Performing this cleaning routine weekly can help prevent issues like malfunctions or musty odors.