You might not think they’re dangerous, but these 7 habits can destroy your washing machine. Here is professional advice to preserve your machine.
With the arrival of spring, many are happy to leave their dryer behind and hang their clothes outside. But be careful, you risk a heavy fine if you choose a specific place to do it (and there are many of us in this case). For the washing part, a laundryman alerts you to something that you should absolutely never do with your laundry. But what about the washing machine?
Some people opt for the aluminum ball tip (which also works in the dishwasher). And experts interviewed by the HuffPost evoke 7 habits to lose to preserve your washing machine. These seem harmless and yet they could cost you dearly… And it’s not just socks that are affected by these warnings issued by professionals.
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Tips for not destroying your washing machine
The first thing to avoid for your washing machine is tousing too much detergent. A high dose does not guarantee cleaner laundry. Being oil-based, it does not rinse easily and builds up in the machine, which can affect the effectiveness of the sensors or cause a musty smell. Limit yourself to 2 tablespoons, the pods are generally too “generous”. A habit that will preserve your machine but also your clothes. It’s not too late, as long as your sensors aren’t damaged. Do not hesitate to run one machine per month (or every thirty cycles) with only hot water.
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The second thing to remember is toavoid fabric softener and scented beads, which break the sensors and stick the hoses. You can replace them with aluminum foil which removes static electricity and softens clothes. For scent, put a little essential oil on a ball of wool and dry it with your clothes.
Pay attention to these habits to preserve your machine
Third thing: be careful with particularly small clothes such as socks (especially those for babies or football), underwear, handkerchiefs or even shoe laces. They get stuck in the pipes and other nooks and crannies of your washing machine, which explains their “disappearance” and clogs your appliance. Place them in a net.
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Fourth tip: watch out for “oversized” items, that is to say duvets, blankets, rugs… If they are too bulky, it can exceed the capacity of your washing machine and damage the belts, gears… Choose a laundromat if you have to difficulty getting the object into your machine. Some even send you a message when the cycle is finished, so no need to wait.
Special cases to remember
Fifth habit to give up: wash your shoes without placing them in a net or pillowcase. Also take care to do this with a cold, gentle cycle so they don’t rock too hard in your drum. It is also wise to add towels or clothes to balance the load. Sixth tip: empty your pockets so as not to wash metal objects like keys or coins as this is also bad for the drum of your machine. For a belt with buckle or an underwired bra, also opt for the laundry bag. For a jacket with a zipper or a garment with snap buttons, it is best to wash them by hand or take them to the dry cleaner.
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And finally, the seventh habit to lose in order not to destroy your washing machine is toavoid putting rubber objects in it : carpets, boots, cushions… They could melt with the heat, divide into several pieces and damage the pumps or filters. Tips to remember so as not to have too many costs on your device.
Editor for Aufeminin since 2022, Charlotte is passionate about cinema, French and international, and a fortune reader. Curious about everything, she talks as much about personalities as…