Category: Washing Machine Maintenance

Is your washing machine having troubles starting up? How long has it been since you’ve owned it or have it undergone maintenance? Well, appliance problems are very common and using them on a regular basis will take its toll, especially if no maintenance work has been done for a while now.

If you need help with troubleshooting where the problem has been rooted in your washing machine, then this article will guide you through it!

1.Your washing machine has overheated
If you’ve been using your washing machine a lot, your device may have overheated and simply needs to cool down. Give it a few hours, then try again.

2.You accidentally hit the wrong settings
Sometimes, when using the machine, people accidentally hit the control lock or delay start button. Try opening and closing the washing machine door, and then try another cycle. If that doesn’t work, you may want to completely restart and reset the wash cycle. Source: Asurion

3.The machine is too full
We get it—why wash two loads of laundry when you can wash it all in one? Your washing machine is only capable of so much, and overfilling it with laundry will cause problems.

While it may not seem like too much, clothes get extremely heavy when they’re soaking wet. All this weight puts a lot of stress on the various components of your washing machine, wreaking havoc on the various parts and compromising the function.

4.The load isn’t balanced
A washer doesn’t have to be overloaded to have spin cycle issues related to the load of laundry. Oftentimes, the problem boils down to the load simply being out of balance. This is more common when washing bulky items such as large blankets or towels. Most modern washers will stop spinning and notify you if the load is off balance. Source: The Spruce

5.Malfunctioning lid switch
A top-load washer won’t turn on if its lid switch is not working. The switch will only get activated and begin a cycle if the lid is properly shut.

6.Damaged door switch
A front-load washer won’t turn on if the door switch is damaged. The switch must lock before your appliance can initiate a cycle.

7.Blown fuse must be replaced
Your machine comes with a fuse that’s responsible for powering and not overheating your appliance. A blown fuse may be the reason your washer won’t start.

Burn marks on a cooktop can make it look dirty even after cleaning it and can be difficult to get rid of using only soap and water. The good news is that such severe marks can still be removed using some elbow grease and a more intense cleaning method.

Understanding stovetop burn marks: Causes and challenges

Before diving into cleaning techniques for burn marks, it’s essential to understand why they occur. Stovetop burn marks happen when food, grease, or other debris is heated excessively, leaving behind tough, blackened, or brownish spots. The types of stovetops–gas, electric coil, or glass-ceramic–also influence how burn stains form and how easily they can be removed.

How to clean the burnt residue

1.Baking soda scrubbing

Start with baking soda. This natural scrubbing powder is also mildly base, like a soap. The base baking soda breaks down acids, which helps to scrub away food residue. At the same time, the sharp soda particles make an excellent scrubbing powder to simply scrape away your burnt-on food. Often, just soap, water, a sponge, and some baking soda sprinkled heavily over the surface is enough to break the burnt-on food off of the stovetop glass or enamel.

2.Baking soda setting

Another option is to let the baking soda soak into the top of your of your stove surface. Mix baking soda in with a mild cleaning liquid like hot water, vinegar, or lemon juice. Add enough baking soda until the mixture makes a paste. Now spread the baking soda paste over the entire surface of your stovetop or over the worst burnt-on areas. Let the baking soda paste sit for 15 to 20 minutes while it dissolves, then use it as a scrubbing paste to remove and wipe the stove clean.

3.Borax scrubbing powder

Another option for scrubbing powder is borax – a natural salt that is also a non-toxic cleaning product. Like baking soda, the crystal particles of borax are extremely sharp on a microscopic level which makes it a great supply for scrubbing really stubborn baked-on grime. Borax is a common kitchen cleaning product and is often used in homemade soaps. Alone, borax empowers soap – helping it to suds and create the crud-dissolving chemical process, while also scraping away at the crud without damaging enamel or glass.

4.Plastic spatula or putty knife

Another method is simply to flip the baked-on crud off of the stove surface. This works because the crud is more cohesive to itself than it is to the smooth surface of your stove. Using a spatula (flipper) or a surface-safe putty knife, you can push against the base of the baked-on stove crud until each small pile comes loose from the surface.

This doesn’t work with all crud and sometimes works best when you have dissolved the surface but the crud mounds still remain solid.

Tips to avoid burning your stove top

Preventing burns on your stove top is just as important as knowing how to clean them. Here are some tips to help you avoid a burn from stove top appliances:

• Use the right size pots and pans: One of the leading causes of a burn from stove top appliances is using pots and pans that are too large or too small for the burner. Make sure to use cookware that fits the size of your burner.
• Watch your cooking: It’s easy to get distracted while cooking, but leaving your stove unattended is a surefire way to end up with burn marks. Try to stay in the kitchen while you’re cooking, especially if you’re cooking at high temperatures.
• Clean regularly: The longer a burn mark sits, the harder it is to remove. Make cleaning your stove top a regular part of your kitchen maintenance to prevent burns from becoming a permanent fixture.

The refrigerator gets a lot of attention in a household because of the tasty foods stored inside. However, there are times when it doesn’t always get the kind of attention it needs.

With all sorts of food being stored inside, there’s no doubt that a certain odor will emit, especially if it doesn’t get maintained too often. This odor can be foul depending on the factor that could have caused it. If you don’t want to experience having a smelly fridge, then these are the things that you can do.

Discard spoiled food

The culprit of your refrigerator’s odor may be spoiled or expired food. Throw away anything that has expired or spoiled and organize your refrigerator and freezer so that foods are easily accessible and not forgotten.

Clean the refrigerator’s interior

To begin removing unpleasant odors from your refrigerator, thoroughly clean the fridge. Unplug your refrigerator and carefully remove all food and removable drawers and shelves, then wipe the inside with warm water and dish soap. After rinsing, dry off internal surfaces with a clean towel. Do not put any of your refrigerator’s parts in the dishwasher.

Clean the refrigerator’s drawer and shelf channels

To clean drawer or shelf channels, use warm, soapy water and then thoroughly rinse them. Completely dry the channels with a soft microfiber cloth before returning the drawers and shelves.

If you have spillovers in your refrigerator, it can cause the crisper bins or shelves to stick. Take out all removable parts, and clean spills using warm water, a soft cloth and mild dish soap. Then wipe down the fridge frame. If the spillover is particularly heavy, extra cleaning may be needed.

Use an odor remover

You can use odor absorbents to get rid of foul smells in your fridge. The most common option is baking soda, although you can use charcoal and coffee grounds.

Certain ClO2-based products are also now available, which are more effective than activated charcoal. These products can effectively remove impurities from the surfaces of vegetables and fruits, keeping the food fresh for longer.

Besides eliminating refrigerator food odors, they also remove bathroom sewer and moldy sweat smell. You can also have them in other areas of the home, including the wardrobes and shoe cabinets.

Clean your refrigerator’s coils

Dirty evaporator coils may also be the culprit for unpleasant odors. These coils are often situated at the back of the freezer and circulate cold air to both compartments. If they are clogged with dust and dirt, your appliance may stink and not function properly. You can vacuum your refrigerator coils with a brush or crevice tool to help remove the dust and dirt.

When you decide to have your clothes cleaned using a washing machine, you expect them to smell good after. But even after the washing and all, do you find them to still smell a bit musty? If that’s the case, then the culprit could be your washing machine. Why? Let’s find out!

Reasons Why Your Washing Machine Smells

Odors in your washing machine can stem from a variety of sources, and you can usually discern the root of the issues based on the nature of the smell. By identifying the source, you can address the issue effectively and eliminate the smell.

Some of the most common reasons for a smelly washing machine include:

• Mold and mildew growth: A musty, damp scent is often indicative of mold or mildew growth, which thrives in the moist environment of a washer, especially when the washer door is left closed between uses.
• Bacteria buildup: Bacterial growth can cause a sour or sewage-like odor when residual detergent, fabric softener, or stagnant water is left in the machine. These residual elements become a breeding ground for microbes.
• Detergent and fabric softener residue: Overuse or misuse of laundry additives can leave behind a strong, chemical-like smell.
• Drainage problems: Stagnant water usually means the water is not draining completely or properly, which may indicate a problem with the washer’s drainage system.
• Plumbing issues: A rotten egg or sewage smell might not be from the washer itself but could be due to plumbing issues, such as backflow problems or trapped gases. These smells often come from hydrogen sulfide gas, a byproduct of bacterial buildup.

Tips for Removing Odors from Washing Machine
Washing machines are essential appliances in the home and are typically used on a weekly basis. Over time, washing machines can sometimes develop unwanted odors. Fortunately, there are some simple tips that can help you remove odors from your washing machine and keep it smelling fresh for every use.

1.Use Less Fabric Softener

Normal use of fabric softeners doesn’t necessarily cause unpleasant odors, but using an excess amount can sometimes result in unwanted buildup. Use less or avoid using fabric softeners in your washing machine to help avoid excess residue buildup in the appliance and on your clothes.

2.Make Sure the Lint Trap Is Clean

Take time to clean the lint trap on your washing machine after every wash cycle. Removing lint from your washer will help keep your clothes free from lint buildup and odors.

3.Create More Air Circulation in Laundry Room

Adding a fan to your laundry room can help improve the overall air circulation. Improving air circulation around your washing machine can help prevent mold and mildew growth and keep unpleasant odors at bay.

Professional Dry Cleaning for Odor Removal

Some smells may seem invincible, but they aren’t. Before you throw out your favorite sweater or piece of athletic wear, let the professionals take a look first. Dry cleaning is the undisputed king of removing stubborn odors from clothes and could solve all your laundry woes. The process involves using specialized solvents that effectively break down and eliminate odorous compounds without the use of water. This method is particularly beneficial for delicate fabrics and materials that may not fare well in traditional washing machines. Dry cleaning not only removes odors but also helps in preserving the quality and longevity of garments, making it a great choice for tackling persistent smells and getting a level of cleanliness you won’t find elsewhere.

If you’re in a rush, it’s easy to just throw everything into the dryer and call it a day. However, getting used to this habit can have some consequences to both your dryer and your clothing. It’s important that you know how to properly do the laundry to ensure that you’re not causing any damage to anything.

For this instance, we have listed some of the common things that you usually put in your dryer, but you shouldn’t at all. At least you can be more aware the next time you do your laundry!

Bras

Bras use spandex and elastic to stretch and provide support. Unfortunately, high temperatures break down those materials and will quickly ruin the shape of bras. Wash them correctly and air-dry to help them maintain their shape.

Backpacks, lunch bags, and reusable shopping bags

If you think about all the things that end up in backpacks, lunch bags, and reusable shopping bags, it’s easy to see that they need to be washed and cleaned often. But none of these things should be placed in a clothes dryer unless they are made of 100 percent cotton.

The high heat of a dryer can cause the outer materials to melt, shrink, or warp and can destroy the inner structure of insulated bags.

Activewear

It’s better to air dry your favorite workout gear like leggings and sports bras. Similar to swimsuits, the high heat of a dryer can compromise the fabric’s elasticity and can even affect its moisture-wicking properties. Some brands recommend a low-heat tumble dry, but better yet, lay these items flat to dry.

Leather, faux leather and suede

You may already know you shouldn’t attempt to launder leather, but faux leather and suede are also no-gos. Not only can wet cleaning be problematic, but the high heat of the dryer can cause these fabrics to melt or crack, causing irreparable damage. We recommend taking these items to a professional, particularly if they’re structured, more expensive items, like jackets or pants.

Silk

Some silk items may be suitable for handwashing, but they should always be air-dried. Never wring out the fabric or hang it to dry; instead, place the item on a clean towel, then gently roll it up to absorb excess water and lay flat to dry away from sunlight.

Sweaters

In the world of laundry, nothing is more delicate than the knitted yarn of a favorite sweater. When washed improperly, knitted fabrics can permanently lose their shape due to shrinking, stretching, and pilling. To keep your sweater looking its best, it’s important to wash it gently (preferably by hand or on a delicate cycle in cold water). After washing, always air-dry your sweater on a flat surface to maintain its shape and texture.

Wool

Wool is a go-to fabric for cozy warmth during the colder months, but it’s also notorious for shrinking. To keep your woolen pieces in their original size, you should generally avoid the dryer. However, some heavy wool items, like blankets or coats, can take days to fully air dry, which can leave behind an unpleasant damp smell. For lighter wool garments, always opt for air-drying. But for those bulkier pieces, it’s okay to toss them in the dryer on a gentle cycle to speed things up without causing damage.

Washing machines help keep your clothes clean, and you might think that it cleans itself too? Sadly, this is not the case. The average family uses the machine for 10 laundry loads per week, and sometimes even more. Now that’s a lot of use when you think about it.

With the amount of laundry we put in our washing machines each week, there’s no doubt that it starts to get grubby and even starts to smell bad. To avoid this, there are ways to maintain it without spending too much.

Use the correct type of detergent

Check that you’re using the right type of detergent for your machine. For example, high-efficiency machines perform best with low-sudsing detergent, so check for “HE” on the detergent label to confirm you’re using the right kind.

Don’t use too much detergent

The friction caused by clothes rubbing against each other is what helps get your clothes clean. Too much detergent can cause excess suds and cushioning between your clothes, reducing the amount of friction needed to get them clean. Not only that, but excess detergent can lead to buildup, which can put extra wear and tear on the machine. Follow the instructions for measuring detergent as this can help safeguard against using too much.

Don’t overload the machine

All washing machines have a maximum capacity for what they’re able to hold. You risk damaging the machine if you put in more than it can handle. Try not to stuff the machine too full of clothes. And for things like bulky blankets and comforters, consider taking those to a laundromat where they have high-capacity machines specifically made to handle bulkier items.

Clean your washing machine often.

Speaking of mold—when’s the last time you cleaned your washer? Front-load washers are especially notorious for getting dirty, and all washers should be cleaned every month or two. We have a list of tips for cleaning your washing machine thoroughly.

Clean the lint filter in your washer.

Many homeowners aren’t aware that most washing machines have lint traps. If you notice a lot of fuzz on your clothing, it might be because of a clogged lint trap.

Inspect the hoses

Unattended, a burst water hose can spill hundreds of gallons an hour into your home. To prevent this calamity, inspect your hoses several times a year. If you see cracks or breaks, unplug the machine, turn off the water supply on both hoses and replace them, preferably with braided, metal hoses that can’t split open.

Also, use a bristle brush to clean the filters of debris and sediment that reduce the machine’s water flow. Finally, replace your hoses every five years and tape the date on them so you know when you last replaced them.

Don’t forget the exterior

To prevent rusting, fill in scratches and gashes with touch-up paint from your local hardware or home supply store. Use a mild soap to wash the outside surfaces as well as the buttons and control dials to prevent sticking and malfunctions.

Your washing machine is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. From tackling tough stains to keeping your clothes fresh, it’s a modern necessity. However, regular maintenance is essential to keep it running efficiently and extend its lifespan. Without proper care, you risk breakdowns, costly repairs, or even the need for a replacement. In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to maintain your washing machine, so it serves you well for years to come.

Clean the Drum Regularly

Detergent residue, fabric softener, and dirt can accumulate in your washing machine’s drum, leading to unpleasant odours and reduced efficiency.

• Run a Maintenance Wash: Many machines have a built-in maintenance wash cycle. Use it monthly to cleanse the drum thoroughly.
• Hot Water Cycle: If your machine doesn’t have a maintenance cycle, run an empty cycle with hot water and add a cup of white vinegar or baking soda to break down residue and eliminate smells.
• Wipe the Drum: After each use, dry the inside of the drum with a clean cloth to prevent mould and mildew.

Keep the Door Open

Leaving the washing machine door slightly ajar after each cycle allows air to circulate, helping to dry the interior. This step is particularly important if your washing machine is in a humid environment, as it reduces the risk of mould growth.

Clean the Detergent Dispenser and Filters

Soap residue and debris can clog the detergent dispenser and filters, impacting your washing machine’s performance.

• Detergent Dispenser: Remove it and soak in warm, soapy water. Use a toothbrush to scrub away buildup and rinse thoroughly. For mould, spray with a bleach solution and rinse well.
• Filter: Regularly check your filter for lint, loose change, or small objects that may obstruct drainage. Clean it to ensure efficient water flow.

Inspect and Clean the Rubber Seal

The rubber seal around the door of a front-loading washing machine can trap water and dirt, creating a breeding ground for mould and mildew.

• Wipe After Every Wash: Clean the seal with a dry cloth to remove moisture and debris.
• Deep Clean Periodically: Use a mix of water and white vinegar or mild detergent to clean the seal every few months. Dry thoroughly to prevent mould growth.

Check the Hoses

Water hoses can wear out over time, potentially causing leaks or bursts.

• Inspect Regularly: Look for cracks, bulges, or leaks. Replace damaged hoses immediately.
• Replace Every 3–5 Years: Even if hoses appear fine, replacing them every few years is a good preventive measure.

Avoid Overloading

Overloading puts unnecessary strain on your washing machine and can lead to unbalanced cycles or poorly washed clothes.

• Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Check your machine’s manual for the recommended load capacity.
• Distribute Evenly: Balance the weight of your laundry around the drum to prevent unbalanced loads.

Use the Right Detergent

Using excessive detergent or the wrong type can cause suds, residue buildup, and potential damage.

• Follow Dosing Instructions: Measure the correct amount of detergent based on load size and water hardness.
• Choose the Right Type: If you have a high-efficiency (HE) washing machine, use HE detergent to prevent excessive suds and residue.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

While regular at-home care is essential, professional servicing can help identify and fix potential issues before they escalate.

• Routine Inspections: Every couple of years, have a technician inspect your washing machine to ensure all components are in good working order.
• Preventive Repairs: Address small problems before they turn into costly repairs or replacements.

Why It’s Important to Maintain Your Washing Machine

Regular maintenance helps:

• Extend Lifespan: Proper care reduces wear and tear, making your machine last longer.
• Improve Performance: A well-maintained washing machine cleans clothes more effectively.
• Save Money: Preventing breakdowns reduces the need for costly repairs or replacements.

Regular cleaning, checking components, and avoiding common mistakes like overloading can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. 

Laundry symbols are those small icons on care labels that guide you on how to wash, dry, and iron your garments. While they might seem confusing at first, learning to interpret these symbols is essential for keeping your clothes in great condition and avoiding costly mistakes. This guide will simplify the most common laundry symbols, so you can care for your wardrobe with confidence.

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What Are Laundry Symbols?

Laundry symbols are visual instructions on fabric care labels that provide guidance on:

• Washing temperature
• Drying methods
• Bleaching suitability
• Ironing settings
• Professional cleaning requirements

By following these symbols, you can prevent shrinking, fading, or damaging your clothes, helping them last longer.

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Common Washing Symbols

Machine Wash

• Bucket Icon: Indicates machine washing is allowed.
• Numbers Inside: Specify the maximum washing temperature in degrees Celsius:
  • 30°C: Gentle wash for delicates.
  • 40°C: Everyday wash for most fabrics.
  • 60°C or Higher: For heavily soiled items like towels or bedding.

Hand Wash

• Hand in Bucket Icon: Means the item should be hand-washed in cold or lukewarm water.

Do Not Wash

• Crossed-Out Bucket: Indicates the fabric should not be washed. These items may need dry cleaning instead.

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Drying Symbols

Tumble Dry

• Square with a Circle Inside: Tumble drying is allowed.
• Dots Inside the Circle: Indicate heat levels:
  • 1 Dot: Low heat, suitable for delicates.
  • 2 Dots: Medium heat for synthetic fabrics.
  • 3 Dots: High heat for durable items like towels.

Do Not Tumble Dry

• Crossed-Out Circle in a Square: Avoid using a tumble dryer. Opt for air drying instead.

Line Dry

• Square with a Line at the Top: Hang the item on a line to dry.

Flat Dry

• Square with a Horizontal Line in the Middle: Lay the garment flat to dry, ideal for knits and delicates that may stretch.

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Ironing Symbols

Iron Allowed

• Iron Icon: Safe to iron.
• Dots Inside: Indicate the temperature setting:
  • 1 Dot: Low heat for delicates like silk.
  • 2 Dots: Medium heat for polyester and synthetics.
  • 3 Dots: High heat for cotton and linen.

Do Not Iron

• Crossed-Out Iron: Avoid ironing the fabric.

Steam Ironing

• Lines Under the Iron: Indicate if steam can be used. A crossed-out steam symbol means to avoid steam.

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Bleaching Symbols
Bleach Allowed

• Triangle Icon: Bleach can be used.

Non-Chlorine Bleach Only

• Triangle with Diagonal Lines: Use only non-chlorine bleach.

Do Not Bleach

• Crossed-Out Triangle: Avoid using any bleach.

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Dry Cleaning Symbols

Dry Clean

• Circle Icon: Dry cleaning is recommended. Letters inside the circle indicate instructions for professional cleaners.

Do Not Dry Clean

• Crossed-Out Circle: Do not dry clean the fabric.

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Why Understanding Laundry Symbols Matters

Knowing how to interpret laundry symbols is about more than just following instructions. It helps:

• Protect Fabrics: Prevent shrinking, fading, and wear.
• Extend Lifespan: Keep clothes looking newer for longer.
• Save Money: Reduce the need for replacements or repairs.

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Top Tips for Following Laundry Symbols

1. Check Labels Before Buying: Ensure you’re ready for any special care requirements.
2. Sort Laundry by Care Needs: Group items with similar washing and drying instructions to simplify the process.
3. Invest in Laundry Tools: Use mesh bags, fabric-friendly detergents, and colour catchers for better results.
4. Keep a Cheat Sheet: Print a guide to laundry symbols and keep it handy in your laundry area.

Conclusion

Laundry symbols may seem tricky at first, but once you understand them, they’re simple to follow. Proper care helps maintain the shape, colour, and texture of your clothes, ensuring they stay in great condition.

Next time you encounter a label full of icons, you’ll know exactly what to do. By mastering laundry symbols, you’ll protect your wardrobe and enjoy a more efficient laundry routine.

Keep your clothes looking their best – they’ll thank you for it!