Homeowners of Washing Machines Repeatedly Commit a Blunder: Why Leaving the Door Ajar is a Common Practice
Let It Crack: The Ultimate Washing Machine Door Policy
We've all been there - the never-ending household debates raging on, and the "correct" way to handle your washing machine door is no exception. Some swear by leaving it open, while others slam it shut like a slam-dunk. But what's the professionals' verdict?
Shocker: Leaving the door wide open for too long isn't the answer.
You might think it's counterintuitive, but repair technicians won't stop banging the drum about this: Modern washing machines come with nifty ventilation systems, and you don't need to air out that drum all day. In fact, it's more harmful than helpful.
Here's the lowdown:
- Hinges in front-loading models, not fish, can sag if left open too often. They ain't built for that.
- The lock and door seal can become worn, reducing their superhero-like abilities to keep leaks at bay.
- Dried detergent particles and lint love to settle on the heating element (TEN), overheating it and shortening its lifespan like termites on a barbecue.
Top-loaders aren't off the hook either - an open lid is a cat's dream playground, inviting furry visitors that may clog filters. And let's not forget about pets and their knack for scooting through open doors and causing mischief.
Don't want to create a pet zoo? Post-wash, crack the door open just enough (about an inch) for 15-20 minutes. Let the moisture escape like a burst dam, and then gently close it, making sure not to smash it like a piñata.
That's the advice the pros are pushing. No smell, appliance safety, and a happy home - win-win.
For the extra mile: After cracking the door, wipe down the drum and door seal with a dry cloth to remove excess water or detergent. Regularly clean the detergent dispenser to prevent gunk buildup. And don't forget to inspect the drain hose for kinks or blockages!
These handy tips keep your washing machine components in tip-top shape, preventing potential issues that could cost you a pretty penny (like fixing door seal leaks, which could set you back £80–£150)[3]. It's all about maintaining harmony between the laundry room and your wallet.
- In front-loading washing machines, continuously leaving the hinges open can cause them to sag, as they're not designed for that.
- Over time, leaving the washing machine door open can cause the lock and door seal to wear out, reducing their effectiveness at preventing leaks.
- Dried detergent particles and lint can settle on the heating element of the washing machine, causing it to overheat and potentially reducing its lifespan.
- To avoid creating a playground for pets and prevent clogged filters, it's best to close the top-loading washing machine lid after the wash cycle and only crack it open a little for 15-20 minutes to let the moisture escape.
