Tips for getting the most from your washer.

According to a survey carried out last year in the UK, only 1 in 10 users use all possible configurations of their washer and 2 in 10 users always wash their clothes using the same cycle.

Your clothes are not coming out as clean as you want them to be? There are several reasons why your washing machine is not performing at its best. Here are some tips that can help extend the life and performance of your device. We have grouped them into three broad categories.

1. General operation

Each device is different. It is therefore important to read the instruction manual and follow the recommendations, especially regarding wash cycles and temperature. But, here are some tips that apply to all models and brands:

Do not overload the washer. This forces the mechanism and can cause destabilization or breakage of the device.

Mix the big clothes with the small ones. A load made up of only small items of clothing will not circulate properly and may cause an imbalance.

Unbalanced loads cause noise, movement, vibration and premature wear on the machine. Washing just one piece is never a good idea, whether it's big or small. A comforter, for example, should go with towels. And if you're washing pillows, put two.

If the washer is out of balance, use a level to determine where the problem is. Adjust the height of the legs if the model allows it. Otherwise, use strong pieces of cardboard to correct the problem.

Correct water leaks immediately to avoid oxidation problems and long-term damage.

2. Wash

Here are some tips you can use to make washing more efficient and get cleaner clothes.

Using too much detergent will not work and may damage your laundry.
The condition of your clothes after washing can tell you that you are putting on too much: a strong smell of detergent or a stiff fabric coming out of the washer.

Before putting the clothes in the machine, you can follow these tips:

Lemon and baking soda are two of the most popular stain removers. A mixture of the two products applied for an hour on the stain before washing works wonders.

Soak the laundry in a solution of four liters of water and two cups of baking soda for best results.

3. Cleaning the washer

As a general rule, it is recommended to clean your washing machine once a month according to the following procedure or according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer:


Run a cycle with the washing machine empty and with hot water to help remove built-up bacteria.
Use a washing machine cleaner and follow the manufacturer's instructions
It is also important to clean the door and the rubber parts with a non-abrasive product in order to remove accumulated substances and mold.
Don't forget the detergent and fabric softener compartments. Clean them with warm water and a brush.