How to Extend the Life of Your Washing Machine: 10 Expert Tips
A good washing machine should last 8–15 years with proper care. Many machines fail prematurely simply due to poor maintenance habits that are easy to fix. Here are the most important things you can do to extend your washing machine's lifespan and keep it performing at its best.
1. Don't Overload the Machine
Overloading is one of the most common causes of premature washing machine failure. An overloaded machine strains the drum bearings, motor, and suspension. Leave at least a hand's-width of space at the top of the drum. For heavy items like duvets and pillows, check the machine's maximum load weight, not just the number of items. Consistently overloading by 20% can halve the machine's bearing life.
2. Use the Right Amount of Detergent
Using too much detergent is a very common mistake, particularly with modern high-efficiency (HE) front-load machines. Excess detergent leaves residue in the drum, hoses and seals that builds up over time, creates mould, and can damage components. Always use HE detergent in front-loaders and follow the manufacturer's dosage instructions (which are usually much less than you think).
3. Clean the Drum Regularly
Run a drum clean cycle (or a hot empty wash at 60–90°C) monthly. Most modern machines have a built-in drum clean program. This removes detergent residue, bacteria, mould and odours. If your machine doesn't have this program, add a cup of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner tablet to an empty hot cycle.
4. Clean the Door Seal (Front Loaders)
The rubber seal (gasket) around the door of a front-loading machine is a notorious trap for moisture, lint, hair and mould. After every wash, wipe the inside of the seal with a dry cloth. Weekly, do a thorough wipe with a damp cloth. Leave the door slightly open after washing to let moisture escape.
5. Clean the Filter (Most Front-Loaders)
Front-loading machines have a filter (usually behind a small panel at the bottom front) that catches lint, hair, coins and other debris. This should be cleaned every 3 months. Unplug the machine, place a towel under the panel, unscrew the filter cap, let any water drain, remove and rinse the filter, then replace it. A blocked filter strains the pump and can cause poor draining.
6. Level the Machine
A washing machine that is not level vibrates excessively during the spin cycle, which accelerates wear on bearings, drum supports and suspension. Use a spirit level to check the machine is perfectly level side-to-side and front-to-back. Adjust the feet as needed. Anti-vibration pads under the feet further reduce vibration transmission.
7. Don't Leave Wet Clothes in the Machine
Leaving wet clothes sitting in the drum encourages mould growth in the drum and seal. Remove clothes promptly after washing finishes. Modern machines that have a "door hold open" mode that alerts you when the cycle ends can help with this.
8. Check Pockets Before Washing
Coins, keys, pens and tissues left in pockets can damage the drum, block the filter, and in severe cases damage the pump impeller. Make it a habit to check all pockets before loading. This one habit prevents a surprising number of service calls.
9. Inspect Hoses Annually
The inlet hoses (connecting the machine to your water supply) can develop small cracks and bulges over time. Inspect them annually — look for any bulging, cracking or corrosion. Replace any hose that shows signs of deterioration. Hose failure can cause significant water damage in a short time. Stainless braided hoses are more durable than rubber hoses.
10. Don't Overuse the Sanitise/90°C Cycle
Occasional hot washes are good for the machine (cleaning the drum and hoses). But running 90°C cycles for every load is not necessary for most laundry and can accelerate wear on seals and gaskets. Use 40–60°C for most loads; reserve 90°C for genuinely soiled or sanitary loads.
Summary
| Tip | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Don't overload | Every load |
| Use correct detergent amount | Every load |
| Clean drum | Monthly |
| Clean door seal | Weekly (wipe), monthly (thorough) |
| Clean filter | Every 3 months |
| Check level | Every 6–12 months |
| Inspect hoses | Annually |
Need a New Washing Machine?
If your machine is over 10 years old and showing signs of trouble, it may be more cost-effective to replace it. Contact Oceania Appliances at support@oceaniaappliances.com.au or visit our Wetherill Park showroom. Open 7 days 10am–8pm.