A washing machine works harder than any other appliance in the home, yet it usually gets attention only when it smells, will not drain or the door starts squeaking. Hard water adds limescale and constant moisture encourages mould.
A few simple jobs done weekly, monthly and quarterly extend the machine's life, keep laundry fresh and save a call-out. Here is what to do.
What you will need
Important: Unplug the machine before cleaning the filter or doing any other work. Never apply lubricants inside the drum or tub where laundry goes: only on hinges, external metal parts and the seal rubber, and always wipe off any excess.
Step 1
Wash the detergent drawer
A good habit is to rinse the drawer under the tap once a week, before detergent and especially fabric softener residue hardens.
Once a month pull the drawer right out and soak it for half an hour in hot water with two tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda. Then scrub the channels with a toothbrush.
Step 2
Clean the drain filter
About every three months clean the filter, which inevitably collects threads, buttons, coins and hair. It is usually at the bottom front behind a flap. Unplug the machine and put a bowl or towel underneath, as water will come out.
Unscrew the filter, remove the debris and gently free the pump impeller. Screw the filter back tightly, check it does not drip, and only then switch the machine back on.
Step 3
Clean the glass and door seal
The door glass just needs a wipe with an all-purpose cleaner and a soft cloth. The seal needs more care: dirt, detergent and mould collect in its folds. Wipe the folds with a sponge and vinegar, looking under every fold, then dry it.
Every few months wipe the clean, dry rubber with silicone: put a little WD-40 Specialist Silicone on a cloth rather than spraying directly. The seal stays supple and cracks less. If the rubber has already torn, it needs replacing.
Step 4
Get rid of smells
Bad smells come from detergent residue and moisture. Once a month run an empty wash at the highest temperature with a glass of vinegar or a descaler. Take laundry out as soon as the cycle ends, and between washes leave the door and drawer ajar so the drum can dry.
Step 5
Stop door squeaks and rust
Moisture, dust and oxidation make the door hinge stiff and squeaky. Flip up the thin straw on WD-40 Smart Straw and apply precisely to the hinge, open and close the door a few times and wipe off the excess. On top-loaders, treat the lid hinges the same way.
If rust spots appear on the outside of the metal casing, for example in a damp bathroom or cellar, apply WD-40 Multi-Use, wait a few minutes and wipe with a cloth. It softens the rust and leaves a film that keeps moisture out.
Tip: Level the machine with a spirit level and check the hoses are not kinked. Heavy vibration on spin often means the machine is out of level rather than faulty, and it wears the bearings quickly.
What next
Drawer weekly, hot empty wash and seal monthly, filter every three months: that schedule suits most machines. If the seal is torn, replace it, and if a tumble dryer stands alongside, it needs similar care for its filter and condenser.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».