8 Expert Tips to Maintain Your Washing Machine and Extend Its Lifespan

Among essential household appliances, the washing machine stands out for handling our daily laundry and linens.

Given its cost, proper maintenance is key to maximizing its lifespan and ensuring optimal cleaning performance.

Neglecting it can lead to mold, limescale buildup, leaks, and unusual noises. Follow these 8 proven tips from appliance care experts to keep your machine running efficiently.

Contents

• 1. Run a 60°C empty cycle with white vinegar
• 2. Perform high-temperature washes
• 3. Avoid overloading with detergent
• 4. Don't overfill the drum
• 5. Clean the drain filter regularly
• 6. Leave the door open to prevent mold
• 7. Clean the door seal
• 8. Clean the detergent drawer
• Result

1. Run a 60°C empty cycle with white vinegar

Limescale buildup is common in water-contact appliances, especially in hard water areas, and can lead to breakdowns.

Every 3 months, run an empty 60°C cycle with white vinegar to dissolve deposits and prevent issues.

Check out the method here.

2. Perform high-temperature washes

Low-temperature cycles (30-40°C) save energy but allow bacteria to thrive, causing odors.

Counter this with regular high-heat washes at 60°C or 90°C on items like sheets or towels to eliminate bacteria and smells.

3. Avoid overloading with detergent

More detergent doesn't mean cleaner clothes—it strains the rinse cycle, leaves residues, causes foam overflow, leaks, and promotes mold.

Stick to manufacturer dosages or use pods for best results.

4. Don't overfill the drum

Overloading causes imbalance during spins, leading to vibrations, poor cleaning, and machine movement.

Load correctly: Press down on laundry; if your upright hand fits between the pile and door seal, it's ideal.

5. Clean the drain filter regularly

The drain filter traps debris like buttons or lint, protecting the pump. Inspect and clean it every 6 months minimum.

Check out the trick here.

6. Leave the door open to prevent mold

After each wash, open the door and detergent drawer to air out and stop mold and bacteria growth in humid areas.

Check out the trick here.

7. Clean the door seal

The rubber door seal (gasket) traps water, detergent, and lint in its folds, breeding mold and odors.

Clean it regularly to prevent black spots and smells. Learn how here.

8. Clean the detergent drawer

Residues in the drawer compartments foster mold in humid conditions. Clean it often—dishwasher's hot cycle works well.

Result

These simple steps will extend your washing machine's life, save money, and deliver cleaner, odor-free laundry.

They apply to all front- and top-loaders from brands like Samsung, Electrolux, Whirlpool, LG, Bosch, and more.