How to Extend the Life of Your Washing Machine

The average washing machine lasts 10--14 years. With proper care, many make it to 15 or beyond. With neglect, some fail in as little as 7 years. The difference almost always comes down to a few simple habits. Here's how to get maximum life out of your washer.

Use the Right Detergent --- and the Right Amount

This is the single most impactful habit. Using regular detergent in a high-efficiency (HE) washer creates excessive suds that strain the pump, leave residue on internal components, and can trigger mold growth in the drum. Always use HE detergent in HE machines.

Equally important: use less than you think you need. The measuring lines on detergent caps are set by detergent companies, not appliance engineers. For most loads, half the recommended amount is sufficient --- especially with modern low-water washers.

Don't Overload the Machine

Overloading is the fastest way to accelerate wear on bearings, belts, and the motor. The drum should never be packed so tight that clothes can't move freely. A good rule: fill the drum about three-quarters full and make sure you can fit your hand in on top of the load.

Consistently overloading also causes poor cleaning results --- clothes don't get properly agitated when they're too compressed.

Clean the Washer Monthly

Washing machine drums accumulate detergent residue, fabric softener buildup, and mold --- particularly in front-loaders. Run a monthly cleaning cycle using a washer cleaning tablet (like Affresh) or a cup of white vinegar in an empty hot water cycle. This prevents odor-causing buildup and keeps internal components clean.

For front-loaders: wipe the door gasket dry after every load and leave the door slightly ajar to allow the drum to dry out. This eliminates the moisture that fuels mold growth.

Clean the Pump Filter Regularly

Front-load washers have a pump filter (usually behind a panel at the bottom front) that catches lint, coins, and debris. If this filter gets completely clogged, it strains the drain pump and shortens its life. Clean it every 3--6 months.

Inspect and Replace Inlet Hoses

The hot and cold water inlet hoses are often overlooked until they burst --- which can cause significant flooding. Rubber hoses should be replaced every 5 years. Braided stainless steel hoses are more durable and last much longer. Check the connections at both ends for drips whenever you're near the back of the machine.

Keep the Machine Level

An unlevel washer vibrates excessively during spin cycles, accelerating wear on bearings and suspension components. Check the machine with a bubble level twice a year and adjust the feet as needed. The machine should sit firmly on all four feet with no rocking.

Don't Leave Wet Clothes Sitting

Leaving damp clothes in the washer for extended periods promotes mold growth in the drum, on the gasket, and in the detergent drawer. It also causes musty odors that are hard to eliminate. Move laundry to the dryer or hang it up promptly after the cycle ends.

Address Small Problems Quickly

A machine that shakes slightly more than usual, drains a little slower, or makes a new noise is signaling a developing problem. Catching and fixing these early --- before they cascade into larger failures --- is the most cost-effective maintenance strategy.