Reading Time: 12 minutes 21 Common Laundry Mistakes That Will Damage Your Washer and Dryer
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Laundry may seem like a simple task, but the way you handle it can have a big impact on the lifespan of your washer and dryer. Small mistakes we make during everyday loads can add up to serious damage over time, costing you in repairs or replacements.
According to recent statistics, around 70% of U.S. households own a washing machine, yet many people unknowingly damage these expensive appliances due to poor laundry habits. This leads to repairs and even replacements, costing people hundreds of dollars each year.
In this article, we’ll get into common laundry mistakes you might be making and offer practical solutions to ensure your washer and dryer stay in peak condition for years to come. With proper care, you can avoid these problems and keep your appliances running efficiently.
Are you ready to see if you’re guilty of any of these laundry blunders? Stick around to see if you’re guilty of these laundry slip-ups, and let us know in the comments which mistake surprised you the most!
Table of Contents
Using Too Much Detergent
Using more detergent than needed doesn’t mean cleaner clothes. In fact, it has the opposite effect. Excess detergent builds up in the washer and hoses, causing blockages that reduce efficiency. Over time, it can lead to mold, unpleasant odors, and even mechanical problems.
Too much soap also leaves residue on clothes, making them feel stiff and unclean. High-efficiency washers, in particular, are sensitive to detergent amounts, so always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper dosing.
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Neglecting Regular Cleaning
Many people forget to clean their washer and dryer. Over time, dirt, detergent, and fabric softener residue build up, reducing efficiency. In the dryer, lint can accumulate, becoming a fire hazard.
Clean the lint filter after every load and wash the washer’s drum regularly to keep it functioning properly. Without regular maintenance, mold and mildew can develop in the washer, especially in front-loading models.
Running an empty wash cycle with hot water and vinegar can help eliminate odors and keep the machine fresh.
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Not Leveling the Machines
A washer or dryer that’s not level will shake and vibrate excessively. This constant movement can damage the drum, motor, and other components. Unstable machines wear out faster and may also cause noise issues that disturb your household.
Use a level to ensure both appliances are balanced. Most washers and dryers come with adjustable feet to make leveling easier. If the machines still vibrate, placing them on vibration pads can help.
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Ignoring the Lint Trap and Vents
Dryers rely on proper airflow to dry clothes efficiently. Failing to clean the lint trap after every load causes lint buildup, restricting airflow and increasing drying time. Over time, this can cause the dryer to overheat, increasing the risk of fire.
Clogged dryer vents are also dangerous. Lint buildup in the vent not only slows drying but also poses a fire hazard. It’s crucial to clean the vent system at least once a year or whenever you notice the dryer taking longer to dry clothes.
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Washing Items with Metal Components
Zippers, buttons, and metal clasps can damage your washer’s drum and dryer. These hard items can scrape the drum’s surface, leading to scratches that weaken the machine over time. They can also get stuck in the drum, causing mechanical issues.
To protect your machines, zip up any zippers, fasten buttons, and turn clothes inside out before washing. You can also use a mesh laundry bag for smaller items with metal parts to reduce the risk of damage.
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Not Using the Right Dryer Setting
Many people rely on the same dryer setting for all loads, but this is inefficient. Using a high heat setting for delicate items causes them to shrink, fade, or wear out faster. Heat also damages synthetic fabrics, causing them to lose elasticity.
Using lower heat settings for delicate items prolongs their lifespan and reduces the risk of damage. The “air dry” or “tumble dry” setting is best for items that don’t require heat.
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Overusing Fabric Softener
Fabric softener can leave a residue in your washer, clogging up the machine’s internal parts over time. This sticky buildup reduces the washer’s efficiency and can lead to mechanical failures. It also coats your clothes in chemicals, reducing their breathability and absorbency.
Instead of using fabric softener, consider using dryer balls or white vinegar as natural alternatives. They keep clothes soft without leaving harmful residues in your washer or on your fabrics.
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Using Cold Water for Every Load
While cold water is gentle on fabrics and saves energy, it’s not always the best choice. Some stains, such as grease or oil, don’t dissolve well in cold water, leaving your clothes dirty even after washing. Cold water also doesn’t disinfect as effectively as hot water.
It’s best to use hot water for loads that need deep cleaning, such as towels or bedding. For regular laundry, cold water works fine, but be mindful of using the right temperature for specific loads.
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Not Replacing Worn Parts
Hoses, belts, and seals in your washer and dryer wear out over time. Neglecting to replace these parts can lead to bigger problems, like leaks or breakdowns. Worn-out hoses are especially prone to bursting, causing water damage in your laundry room.
Check these parts regularly for signs of wear, such as cracks or brittleness. Replacing them early can prevent costly damage and keep your machines running smoothly.
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Closing the Washer Door After Use
Closing the washer door after a wash traps moisture inside the drum, encouraging mold growth. This is especially problematic with front-loading washers, where the seal can hold water and create a musty smell.
Leave the washer door open after each use to allow air to circulate and dry the drum. This simple step prevents mold and mildew buildup and keeps your washer smelling fresh.
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Not Using the Right Detergent
High-efficiency (HE) washers require special HE detergent. Using regular detergent in an HE washer creates excess suds, which can lead to poor rinsing and mechanical issues. It may also leave residue that clogs the machine and reduces its efficiency.
Always use the right type of detergent for your washer. HE washers are designed to use less water, so the wrong detergent can affect cleaning performance and lead to long-term problems.
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Failing to Adjust for Water Hardness
Water hardness can affect how well your washer cleans clothes. Hard water contains minerals that reduce detergent efficiency, leading to dull, stiff clothes and potential residue buildup in your washer. Over time, these minerals can also damage internal components, reducing the lifespan of the machine.
If you have hard water, consider using a water softener or adding more detergent to improve cleaning performance. This small adjustment can help keep your washer running smoothly and extend its lifespan.
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Washing Shoes and Heavy Items Incorrectly
Shoes, blankets, and heavy items can throw the washer drum off balance if not loaded correctly. An unbalanced load causes the washer to shake and vibrate excessively, leading to potential damage to the drum or motor. It also reduces the machine’s cleaning efficiency.
To avoid this, wash heavy items in small loads and distribute them evenly in the drum. For shoes, place them in a mesh bag or pillowcase to protect both the shoes and the washer.
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Ignoring Manufacturer Instructions
Each washer and dryer model comes with specific instructions for optimal use. Ignoring these guidelines can shorten the lifespan of your machines. Misusing settings or neglecting recommended maintenance schedules often leads to unnecessary wear and tear.
Take the time to read the manual that comes with your appliances. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations ensures that you’re using your machines as intended and helps prevent costly repairs.
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Forgetting to Balance Loads Properly
When loading the washer, balance is crucial for its smooth operation. Unbalanced loads cause the washer to vibrate excessively, straining the motor and drum. This leads to faster wear and tear, reducing the machine’s lifespan.
To avoid this, distribute clothes evenly around the drum. Mixing heavy and light items in one load can also throw the balance off. Washing similar-weight items together helps keep the washer stable during cycles.
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Using Incorrect Spin Speeds
The spin speed setting plays an important role in protecting your clothes and washer. High spin speeds can be too rough on delicate fabrics, causing them to stretch or tear. Over time, consistently using the highest spin setting can wear out the washer’s motor.
Choose the appropriate spin speed based on fabric type. Delicates require lower speeds, while heavier items can handle faster spins. This practice ensures both your clothes and the washer remain in good condition.
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Overlooking Pre-Treatment for Stains
Skipping the pre-treatment of stains places more strain on your washer. Tough stains like grease, oil, or ink require special attention before washing. Relying on the machine alone to remove them often leads to disappointment and requires extra cycles, wasting energy and water.
Treat stains as soon as possible before they set in. Using the right stain remover improves cleaning efficiency and helps your washer work more effectively. This step also protects clothes from damage caused by vigorous scrubbing or re-washing.
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Running Back-to-Back Loads
Giving your washer and dryer a break between loads is essential. Running multiple loads back-to-back causes the machines to overheat, which wears out internal components faster. The motor and other parts need time to cool down between cycles to function properly.
Allow at least 30 minutes between loads to let the machines cool down. This practice extends their lifespan and improves efficiency. It’s especially important for dryers, where overheating can also pose a fire hazard.
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Ignoring the Washer’s Filter
Many washers have a filter that collects debris such as lint, hair, or small objects. Over time, this filter can become clogged, reducing the machine’s efficiency and leading to drainage issues. If left unchecked, it can even cause the washer to malfunction.
Check and clean the filter regularly to maintain optimal performance. Removing buildup keeps your washer running smoothly and prevents costly repairs. This simple maintenance task can also prevent unpleasant odors caused by trapped debris.
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Not Using Mesh Bags for Delicate Items
Delicate items, like lingerie or small fabric accessories, are easily damaged in the wash. Washing them without protection can lead to tears, snags, or loss of shape. It also increases the chance that they’ll get caught in the drum, causing mechanical issues.
Using mesh laundry bags protects delicates and reduces wear. These bags allow items to be washed safely while preventing them from becoming tangled or damaged. This practice ensures your washer remains in good working condition and your delicate items stay intact.
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Overlooking the Importance of Load Size
Washing too few clothes in a load can be just as harmful as overloading. Small loads cause the washer drum to spin unevenly, creating vibrations that damage internal components over time. It also leads to wasted water and energy, reducing efficiency.
Aim to wash medium-sized loads that allow for proper movement of clothes in the drum. This helps prevent machine imbalance and ensures better cleaning performance. Being mindful of load size extends the life of your washer and reduces utility costs.
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Final Tips for Keeping Your Washer and Dryer in Top Shape
Your washer and dryer are essential to daily life, and with proper care, they can serve you well for many years. By avoiding common laundry mistakes like overloading, using too much detergent, or skipping regular cleaning, you not only extend the life of your appliances but also ensure your clothes come out clean and fresh every time.
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and perform routine maintenance checks. With just a little extra attention, you’ll save money on repairs and replacements and enjoy more efficient laundry days.
So, next time you’re doing a load of laundry, keep these tips in mind and give your machines the care they deserve!
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