10 Tips to Improve Your Washing Machine's Performance

You load the machine, diligently pour in laundry detergent and fabric softener. You choose the appropriate program and start the machine. But why is the result unsatisfactory, and the clothes do not smell as fresh as you expected? The following article will clarify things for you.

1. First and foremost: ventilate your washing machine as much as possible. It is important to understand that when moisture is left in the machine and the door is closed for several hours, mold develops. Your washing machine won't inform you about this, but when clothes don't come out as clean as they should, realize they, unfortunately, were cooked with mold inside the machine. Therefore, it is essential to keep the machine door open after the cycle ends and the clothes are removed.

2. For the same reason, make sure to remove the clothes from the machine as soon as the cycle is complete.

3. To protect the machine from mold, when you finish your last wash before Shabbat (it's recommended to do this on Thursday, in honor of Shabbat), wipe the inside of the machine with a dry cloth and leave the door open for the next two days.

4. Additionally, at least once a week, wipe the rubber seal of the door with a dry cloth.

5. Before each wash cycle, make sure to check and empty the pockets of your clothes.

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6. Never overload the machine. For clothes to come out clean, avoid filling the machine to its full capacity. An added benefit: the machine will exert less effort and likely last longer.

7. Take care of the filter used to collect dirt, fabric residues, hairs, and small objects that enter the machine with the clothes. It is recommended to clean this filter at least once every three months. Practically, it’s an easy and pleasant task when done once a week.

8. For your laundry to be clean and fragrant, occasionally clean the detergent drawer (the one where you place the detergent and softener). In most machines, the drawer can be easily removed.

9. Clean the washing machine door. Remember, the inside of the door rubs against the clothes being washed, and when it’s not clean or dusty, it directly affects the washing quality. Cleaning with window spray and a damp cloth is recommended. By ensuring this at least once a month, you’ll enjoy a shiny washing machine inside and out.

10. The previous tips are primarily preventative. If this is your first time encountering them, treat your machine to a special cleaning: fill the detergent and softener compartment with half a cup of vinegar. Then, run the machine with no laundry at 90 degrees. The high temperature, combined with the vinegar, will clean the pipes of dust and fiber residues within.