The way you use and look after your washing machine on a daily basis can have a big impact on its lifespan and how often it breaks down. Common mistakes made during everyday use can lead to permanent damage – sometimes just a few years after purchase.
The good news? With a few simple maintenance habits, you can prevent unnecessary wear and tear and keep your machine running smoothly for years to come.
Want to know how to make your washing machine last longer? Read our guide and find out how to take proper care of it.
What Shortens the Lifespan of a Washing Machine?
There are several everyday habits that can shorten your washing machine’s lifespan. Below, we’ve listed some of the most common causes of wear and tear and unexpected breakdowns.
Skipping Regular Maintenance
Neglecting to clean your washing machine or skipping descaling products? That’s a common mistake. Regular maintenance can add several years to the life of your machine. Clean it once a month using store-bought cleaners or natural solutions like baking soda, vinegar, or citric acid. Don’t forget to clean the detergent drawer, rubber door seal, and filter — keeping these parts clean helps your machine run smoothly and reliably.
Shutting the Door Right After a Wash
Closing the washing machine door immediately after a cycle can encourage mould and bacteria to grow, as moisture gets trapped inside. It can also lead to corrosion of aluminium components and damage the drum over time. On top of that, it can cause bad smells that are hard to remove and often transfer onto your clothes. Always leave the door slightly ajar to allow the drum to air out properly.
Overloading the Drum
Cramming in all your laundry at once might seem like a time-saver, but it can seriously damage your machine. Every washer has a maximum load limit — consistently overloading it puts extra strain on the bearings, shocks, springs and even the pump motor. It can also make the machine noisier and cause it to vibrate excessively. Stick to the recommended load size for smoother and quieter operation.
Using Too Much Detergent
It’s tempting to think that more detergent equals cleaner clothes — but that’s not the case. Too much detergent creates excess foam, forcing your machine to work harder than it needs to. Not only can this lead to quicker wear and tear, but it can also leave detergent residue on your clothes, causing them to fade or feel rough. If your washer doesn’t have an auto-dosing function, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Frequent Washing
Running multiple loads back-to-back can also reduce your washing machine’s lifespan. If you often do several washes in a single day, keep in mind that this puts extra strain on the heating element, which stays hot long after the cycle ends. To avoid burning it out, it’s best to leave at least 30 to 60 minutes between washes, giving the machine time to cool down properly.
How to Make Your Washing Machine Last Longer – Top Tips
Here are some simple yet effective habits that can help extend the life of your washing machine. Remember – proper use and regular maintenance are key to keeping your appliance running smoothly and fault-free for years to come.
Keep Your Washing Machine Level
One of the most important things you can do is to make sure your washing machine is placed on a flat, stable surface. Proper levelling reduces excessive vibrations and noisy operation. An uneven machine is more likely to suffer from drum-related issues and wear out faster.
Avoid Overloading the Drum
Always leave enough space inside the drum for your clothes to move freely. This ensures a better wash and protects the internal components. As a general rule, fill the drum no more than three-quarters full.
Empty Pockets Before Washing
Items left in pockets — like tissues, coins, or hairpins — can clog the filter and cause damage. Always double-check clothing before loading it into the machine. Using laundry bags can also help protect the filter from small, loose items like buttons or hooks that may come off during the spin cycle.
Clean the Detergent Drawer
To prevent mould and detergent build-up, clean the detergent drawer at least once a month. The combination of leftover detergent and moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for mould, which can be difficult to remove later.
Avoid Back-to-Back Washes
As mentioned earlier, the heating element stays warm for a while after a wash. Running several loads back-to-back puts extra strain on it. Leave at least 30 to 60 minutes between cycles to help it cool down and prevent overheating.
Check the Filter and Door Seal
Once a month, clean the washing machine filter to remove any trapped debris, fabric remnants, or hair. Rinse it thoroughly under running water. Also, wipe down the door seal (also known as the gasket) after every wash — it’s prone to mould growth. Once a month, clean it with a 1:1 solution of vinegar and water.
Protect Against Limescale
If you live in a hard water area, limescale can build up quickly and damage key components. Descale your machine monthly using either a shop-bought limescale remover or natural products like vinegar and bicarbonate of soda.
To use vinegar: pour two cups directly into the drum and run the longest, hottest cycle.
To use bicarbonate of soda: add half a cup to the detergent drawer and run a hot wash cycle.
Let the Machine Breathe
Always remove laundry as soon as the cycle ends, and leave the door open afterwards so the drum can dry naturally. This helps prevent mould, mildew and unpleasant odours from developing inside the machine.
Extending Your Washing Machine’s Lifespan – How Much Can You Save?
Taking proper care of your washing machine can significantly extend its lifespan and reduce the risk of faults caused by poor use or lack of maintenance. By using your machine mindfully and addressing small issues as they arise, you could keep it running smoothly for several extra years — saving you money on expensive repairs or even premature replacement.
However, even with the best care and by following all manufacturer guidelines, some breakdowns are simply unavoidable. When something goes wrong, don’t wait for it to get worse — call a trusted appliance repair service straight away. Identifying and fixing a fault early can prevent damage to other components and help keep repair costs down.
Looking for a reliable appliance engineer? Get in touch with us — we work with some of the best professionals in the industry!
Summary
- Improper use and lack of care are the main factors that shorten a washing machine’s lifespan.
- Overloading the drum, placing the machine on an uneven surface, or shutting the door immediately after a cycle can all lead to faster wear and tear.
- Frequent washing and overusing detergent can also put unnecessary strain on the internal components.
- Clean your machine regularly – remove detergent build-up from the drawer, rinse the filter thoroughly, and wipe the rubber seal with diluted vinegar.
- Leave the door slightly open after each wash to prevent mould growth inside the machine.
- Descale your washing machine regularly using specialist products or natural alternatives like vinegar and bicarbonate of soda.
- Avoid overloading and always follow the manufacturer’s recommended load capacity.
- Check and empty all pockets before washing; laundry bags can help catch loose items like coins or buttons.
- Allow at least a 30-minute break between wash cycles so the heating element can cool down properly.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
How can I make my washing machine last longer?
To extend the life of your washing machine, make sure to clean and descale it regularly. Avoid overloading the drum, and after each cycle, leave the door open to let the inside air out – this helps prevent mould growth. Always check and empty clothes pockets before washing. Try to leave a 30–60 minute gap between wash cycles to allow the heating element to cool down. Also, make sure your machine is placed on a level surface. If it vibrates excessively during use, consider using an anti-vibration mat for extra stability.
What are the most common washing machine faults?
The most frequently failing parts in a washing machine are the drum, pump, filter, and control panel (also known as the programme selector). These components are particularly prone to wear and tear over time and may need repair or replacement if not properly maintained.
Which washing machines are the most durable?
Washing machines with inverter motors are considered the most durable. These models tend to be quieter, more energy-efficient, and experience less wear over time, resulting in a longer overall
How often should you replace your washing machine?
There’s no fixed timeline for replacing a washing machine, as it depends heavily on how well it’s maintained and how it’s used. Lack of regular care or incorrect usage can lead to more frequent replacements. However, with proper maintenance and preventative measures, a good washing machine can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.