Washing Machine Usage Guide

General tips for getting the best from your washing machine and avoiding common faults, from Braintree Appliance Repairs.

Getting the best from your washing machine

1. Don't overload the drum — leave a hand's width of space at the top so clothes can tumble freely; overloading is one of the most common causes of poor washing and premature wear.
2. Use the correct amount of the right detergent for your water hardness and load size — too much detergent causes excess suds, poor rinsing, and can lead to residue build-up in the drum and pipework.
3. Run an empty maintenance wash (60°C+, no clothes) once a month to clear detergent and limescale build-up, especially if you mostly wash on low temperatures.
4. Leave the door and detergent drawer open after each wash to let the drum and seal dry out fully — this is the single biggest way to prevent musty smells and mould on the door seal.
5. Check pockets before every wash — coins, tissues and small items are a leading cause of drainage blockages and drum damage.
6. Fit a water softener or use a descaler occasionally in hard water areas — limescale build-up on heating elements is a common cause of machines not heating properly.
7. Keep the machine level — an unlevel machine vibrates and walks during spin, which stresses bearings and suspension over time.

If a fault persists after checking the above, it's usually down to a worn part rather than something you can fix at home — see Washing Machine Repairs.