Why Washing Machine Maintenance Matters
Your washing machine works hard — often running multiple cycles per week, handling heavy loads, and dealing with detergent residue, lint, and mineral deposits from hard water. Without regular care, these factors accumulate and lead to poor performance, bad odours, and costly breakdowns. The good news is that most maintenance tasks take just a few minutes and require no specialist skills.
10 Tips to Keep Your Washing Machine in Peak Condition
1. Clean the Drum Monthly
Run an empty hot cycle with a washing machine cleaner or a cup of white vinegar once a month. This removes detergent buildup, limescale, and bacteria that cause musty odours. Many modern machines have a dedicated "drum clean" or "tub clean" cycle — use it.
2. Don't Overload the Machine
Overloading strains the motor, bearings, and drum suspension. A useful rule: you should be able to fit your hand flat on top of the laundry in the drum. For front-loaders, the drum should be about three-quarters full at most.
3. Use the Correct Amount of Detergent
More detergent doesn't mean cleaner clothes — it means more residue buildup inside the machine. Use the dosage recommended on the detergent packaging and adjust for your water hardness. Excess suds can trigger fault codes and damage seals.
4. Clean the Detergent Drawer Regularly
Detergent and fabric softener solidify in the dispenser drawer over time, clogging the channels. Remove and rinse the drawer every few weeks under warm running water.
5. Inspect and Clean the Door Seal (Front-Loaders)
The rubber gasket around a front-loader door traps water, lint, and small objects. Wipe it dry after each wash and check for trapped items. Mould loves this area — clean it with a diluted vinegar or bleach solution if you notice dark spots.
6. Check and Clean the Pump Filter
Most washing machines have a small filter (often behind a panel at the bottom front) that catches coins, buttons, and lint. Clean it every 1–3 months. A blocked filter reduces drain performance and can cause the machine to stop mid-cycle.
7. Leave the Door Ajar After Each Wash
Keeping the door slightly open after a cycle allows air to circulate and the drum to dry, preventing mould and mildew growth — especially important for front-loaders.
8. Check Hoses Annually
Inspect the inlet and drain hoses for cracks, bulges, or signs of wear once a year. A burst hose can cause significant water damage. Replace hoses that show any deterioration, and ensure connections are tight.
9. Level the Machine Properly
A washing machine that isn't level vibrates excessively, which wears out bearings and drum suspension over time. Use a spirit level on top of the machine and adjust the feet until it sits perfectly stable on all four corners.
10. Schedule Annual Professional Servicing
Even with excellent home maintenance, an annual check-up by an authorised technician can identify developing faults before they become expensive repairs. A service visit typically includes checking electrical connections, inspecting belts and bearings, and calibrating water temperatures.
Signs Your Washing Machine Needs Professional Attention
- Unusual grinding, banging, or squealing noises during the spin cycle
- Water not draining fully after a cycle
- Persistent error codes on the display panel
- Clothes coming out still soapy or excessively wet
- Visible leaks from the drum, hoses, or underneath the machine
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact an authorised service centre promptly. Early intervention almost always results in a simpler, less expensive repair than waiting for a full breakdown.