Why Everyone Else’s Washing Machine Lasts Forever – And Yours Keeps Breaking!
When it comes to laundry, washing machines are absolute legends. They save us from scrubbing socks in the sink and let us binge watch telly instead of standing over a washboard. But if yours is constantly packing it in, it’s time to figure out why! Spoiler alert: it’s probably not the machine’s fault.
Here are the top reasons your washing machine might be heading to the great appliance graveyard while your friend’s machines are still living their best lives. Keep reading to find out why.
Why Is Your Washer Always Breaking Down?
Here are some of the most common causes of washing machine breakdowns and why your friends washers keep running while yours is always on the blink;
1. You Never Read the Manual
You know that little book that came with your washer? The one you chucked in a drawer and never looked at. Turns out, it’s got all the tips on how to treat your machine right. Stuff like how much washing it can handle and what not to throw in there.
Not reading it is like trying to assemble IKEA furniture without the instructions… a recipe for disaster. Give it a skim. Your washer will thank you.
2. It’s All About That Balance
If your washing machine is doing the cha-cha across your kitchen, it’s probably not sitting level. This can lead to rattling, shaking, and bits falling off inside. Sort it out by adjusting the legs or sticking it on a level surface. No one wants a washer that looks like it’s auditioning for Strictly Come Dancing.
If you don’t deal with it, you run the risk of damaging the internal parts of your washer, expensive repairs and could even damage your floors.
3. You’re Overloading It Like You’re Packing for a Holiday
We’ve all done it: shoved as much as possible into the drum to save time. But guess what? Overloading your washer is a fast-track ticket to Broken Town. Your clothes won’t get properly clean, and the machine’s bits will wear out faster than your favourite socks.
Rule of thumb? Fill it no more than three-quarters full. Leave some room for the clothes to have a boogie. If you have an 8kg capacity washer for example, don’t put any more than 6kg of dry laundry in the drum.
4. Underloading Is Just As Bad
Throwing in a single pair of jeans and calling it a load isn’t doing your machine any favours either. It throws the drum off balance, making the washer work harder than it needs to. Wait until you’ve got a proper pile before you press start. Save energy, and save your washer.
5. Too Much Soap Can Cause Problems
Detergent is like chocolate, more isn’t always better. Chucking in loads of soap can cause foamy chaos, clogging the pipes and stopping water from draining properly. Stick to the recommended amount, and your washer will keep spinning happily.
6. Harsh Chemicals Are a No-No
Your washing machine isn’t a chemistry lab. Bleach, solvents, and other harsh chemicals can eat away at its insides like a bad curry. Rubber hoses and seals can get damaged by harsh chemicals as can your clothes.
Be kind. Use gentle detergents, and if you’ve got clothes covered in motor oil or grease, pre-treat them before they hit the drum.
7. Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow (Into Your Washer)
If you’ve got pets or long hair, listen up. Fur and hair can clog the drain and make your washer wheeze like your grandad running for the bus. Grab a lint roller or give clothes a good shake before putting them in the drum. This will make your washer run better and for longer.
8. Rogue Pockets Full of Trouble
Ever found a coin or a key in your washer and thought, “That’s where that went!” Yeah, those little stowaways can damage the drum and mess things up big time. And it’s not just keys and coins, kids crayons, or even paper tissues can all cause problems.
Do a pocket check before every load. Bonus: no more soggy tissues ruining your black jeans.
9. Delicate Clothes Need Extra TLC
Sequins, zippers, and straps can be murder on your machine. Pop these in a mesh bag or turn them inside out to protect the drum (and your clothes). Your washer’s not a punching bag.
10. Shoes? In the Washer? Really?
Unless your machine specifically says it can handle shoes (check the manual), don’t even think about it. Hard or sharp objects can damage the drum, and heavy items throw the spin cycle off balance. Stick to hand-washing your trainers.
11. Leaving Laundry in the Washer
We’ve all forgotten a load in the washer and come back to a stinky, soggy mess. But it’s not just gross, it’s bad for your machine. Dampness can lead to mould and make your washer smell like a swamp. Set a timer and unload it pronto, and never leave wet laundry in your machine overnight.
12. Strange Noises? Don’t Ignore Them!
While some operational noise is normal, banging, screeching, or clunking sounds are your washing machine’s way of screaming for help. Don’t ignore it. Check for loose change or consult a repair expert. A quick fix now can save you a fortune later.
13. Make The Time To Clean It Regularly
Your washer cleans your clothes, but who cleans your washer? Well, it should be you! Soap scum, mould, and lint build up can make it work harder and wear out faster.
Give the drum, detergent drawer, and filter a good clean now and then. A little effort goes a long way. While You’re at it, give the exterior the once over as well. But be sure to use mild detergents and keep away from harsh chemicals.
Keep Your Washing Machine Happy!
So there you have it, the secret to making your washing machine last longer than your latest fad diet. Treat it right, and it’ll keep your socks fresh and your wardrobe smelling lovely.
Got any washing machine horror stories or top tips? Drop them in the comments below! And don’t forget to share this with anyone who’s always moaning about their washer breaking down.
