Top 5 Washing Machine Maintenance Tips

Your washing machine keeps your laundry fresh, but it needs a little care in return. Regular washing machine maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, extends the life of the appliance, and saves you from costly repairs down the line. Whether you have a front-load, top-load, or high-efficiency (HE) model, these washer maintenance tips will help keep things running smoothly.

Tip #1 – Clean Your Washing Machine Regularly

Detergent residue, fabric softener buildup, and trapped lint can lead to odors, mold, or reduced performance. Luckily, cleaning a high-efficiency washing machine or other type of machine is simple. Use these tips on how to clean and maintain your washing machine to keep everything as good as new:

• Wipe the door and rubber gasket: Use a damp cloth with vinegar or mild cleaner to remove grime, lint, and mildew.
• Clean the detergent drawer: Pull it out and rinse it under warm water. Use an old toothbrush to scrub away any residue stuck in corners.
• Run a cleaning cycle: Once a month, run an empty hot water cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar (or a washing machine cleaner). This helps remove detergent scum and deodorize the drum. For extra odor control, sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda directly into the drum before running the cleaning cycle.
• Dry the interior: Leave the door open after each load and after cleaning to allow the inside to dry and prevent mold growth.

Tip #2 – Avoid Overloading the Washer

Stuffing your washer may seem efficient, but it wears out internal parts faster. An overloaded drum strains the motor, bearings, and suspension. It also may not clean clothes effectively. Sticking to the recommended load size keeps your washer healthy and your laundry cleaner.

As a rule of thumb:

• Fill front-load washers about ¾ full, never above the last row of holes near the door.
• Fill top-load washers so clothes can move freely, keeping them at the level of the agitator.

Tip #3 – Check and Clean the Filter

The filter in your washing machine traps lint, hair, and small objects. This prevents them from clogging the drain or damaging the pump. If it gets too dirty, your washer may experience water backups or stop mid-cycle.

Here’s how to maintain your washing machine’s filter:

1. Unplug the machine: Always cut the power before working on your appliance for safety.
2. Find the filter: For front-load washers, the filter is typically behind a small access panel at the bottom front of the machine. For top-load washers, the filter may be inside the agitator (center column) or near the drain hose at the back.
3. Place a towel or shallow pan underneath: Some water will likely drain out when you remove the filter.
4. Unscrew or unclip the filter: Gently turn the filter counterclockwise or unclip it, depending on your model.
5. Rinse the filter thoroughly: Use warm water and an old toothbrush to scrub away debris.
6. Wipe the housing: Before reinserting the filter, clean the area around the opening.
7. Reinstall and test: Replace the filter, close the panel, and run a short rinse cycle to check for proper drainage.

Tip #4 – Inspect Hoses for Leaks or Wear

Another form of washing machine care is making sure the hoses are functioning well. A burst hose can flood your laundry room in minutes. Inspect your water supply hoses at least twice a year, looking for:

• Bulges or cracks
• Rusted or loose connections
• Leaks around fittings

Replace rubber hoses every 3-5 years, or consider switching to braided stainless steel hoses for extra durability.

Tip #5 – Use the Right Detergent and Avoid Harmful Additives

Too much detergent—or the wrong kind—can leave residue and damage your machine. Use HE detergent if your washer requires it, and always follow the dosing instructions. Avoid:

• Powdered detergents with fillers
• Harsh chemicals, bleach, or ammonia-based products
• Fabric softeners in machines not designed for them

FAQs About Washing Machine Maintenance

How often should you clean your washing machine?

How often should I clean my washing machine? Clean your washer once a month or every 30 loads. One front-load washer cleaning tip: Front-load models may require more frequent cleaning to prevent mold and odor buildup.

What maintenance is required for a washing machine?

Basic maintenance for a washing machine includes cleaning the drum and filter, inspecting hoses, using proper detergent, and avoiding overloading. This helps extend your machine's life and prevent damage.

How can I maintain my washing machine?

Stick to a regular cleaning schedule, check hoses, clean the filter, and follow load size and detergent guidelines. These are the basics of how to maintain a washing machine.

Do you need to clean a washing machine filter?

Yes. A dirty filter can cause clogs and poor drainage. Clean it every 2-3 months or as recommended by the manufacturer.

Is it necessary to service a washing machine?

Professional servicing isn’t always required unless there's a specific issue, but routine inspections and maintenance can help catch problems early.

Maintaining Your Washing Machine

With just a little routine care, your washing machine can deliver years of reliable service. These five tips help protect your investment and keep clothes looking and smelling their best. And if you ever run into plumbing problems related to your washing machine, Roto-Rooter’s team is here to help with expert diagnosis and solutions. Schedule your appointment now for service 24/7, 365 days a year.