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From overloading the drum to choosing the wrong setting when doing a load of laundry, millions of us are damaging our washing machines without even realising. According to Andrew Wright, kitchen appliance expert and Cookology founder, simple mistakes in our laundry routines are costing households time, money, and fresh-smelling clothes.
“We all rely on our washing machines, but very few people use them properly,” says Wright. “Even small changes in how you load, clean and maintain the machine can make a big difference in performance and lifespan. Washing machines are built to last 10-plus years, but only if you treat them well. A few simple habits can help avoid breakdowns and keep your laundry fresh, clean and smelling great.”
Whether you’re constantly rewashing damp-smelling clothes or wondering why your machine makes strange noises, here are the top six mistakes you might be making.
Choosing the wrong setting or temperature
According to the expert, one of the biggest errors people make is choosing the wrong setting and temperature.
While it’s tempting to wash everything at 30°C to save energy, over time this allows bacteria and detergent residue to build up, particularly in the drum and pipes.
A higher temperature setting kills germs more effectively while hot water helps dissolve dirt and oils more easily, allowing detergent to work better.
For instance, a 60°C wash is a generally adequate temperature to kill most germs on heavily soiled items like towels and bed linen.
Wright suggests runing an empty maintenance wash at 60°C to 90°C with detergent or specialist machine cleaner once a month to keep things fresh and hygienic.
Overloading the drum
One of the most common errors is overloading the drum, says Wright.
Stuffing in too many clothes restricts water and detergent flow, meaning your laundry won’t come out clean, and your machine has to work much harder to spin, causing wear on the motor and bearings.
For a standard wash, the drum should be around 75% full. You should be able to fit a hand on top of the laundry pile.
Using too much detergent
According to the expert, more bubbles doesn’t equate to cleaner clothes. Excess detergent builds up inside the machine and on your clothes, causing residue, skin irritation, and even mould growth in the drawer and drum.
Follow the detergent manufacturer’s dose instructions – and reduce it for soft water areas or smaller loads.
Leaving the door and drawer shut
When the wash is done, many people immediately shut the door and detergent drawer – creating a perfectly damp breeding ground for mould and bad smells.
Wright reccomends to always leave the door and drawer slightly ajar following a wash to allow the air to circulate, thereby preventing the buildup of mould and mildew.
Ignoring the filter
Most people forget the machine even has a filter, but it’s essential, says Wright. Lint, coins, hair grips and other debris build up and can cause drainage problems, foul smells or even flooding.
Check and clean the filter (usually at the bottom front of the machine) every four to six weeks, especially if you notice sluggish cycles or musty odours.
Not checking labels
Has that wool jumper shrunk or your jeans came out stiff and faded? Wright says you’re probably ignoring care labels. Certain fabrics require specific temperatures, spin speeds or washing methods.
Get into the habit of sorting clothes not just by colour, but by fabric type and care instructions. Your wardrobe, and your washing machine, will thank you.
