Winter is the season of layers, including sweaters, coats, scarves, and gloves. When laundry day rolls around, do you view your coats and cold weather accessories as dry clean only, or do you guesstimate the load size your washer can take? Read our tips below to learn helpful tips for winter washing machine safety. 

Winter washing machine tips

Winter coats and cold weather accessories are both investments. Use the checklists below for washing machine tips that can keep them both around for many winters to come.

Easy ways to bypass common washing machine problems

Whether caused by a freak accident or one of several common washing machine problems (such as washers that won’t drain, washers that make too much noise, or ones that rock too much), washing machine repair can be costly. Help yourself skip the repair bill with these tips to keep your washing machine and all its parts in working order.

  • Pretreat salt, mud, and slush stains to prevent damaging your washer’s motor
  • Balance your loads to prevent rocking or uneven rotation
  • Fleece and wool can attract pet hair (which can clog drains), so lint-roll them beforehand
  • Zip and fasten coats so they don’t scratch your washer’s drum or snag on other clothing
  • Keep the outdoor exhaust hood cleared of snow and debris to prevent sewer gas backups

 

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Home laundry tips to protect your winter clothing

Though it may be handy, not every garment can handle a toss and turn in a washing machine. Follow these home laundry guidelines to make your winter clothes last longer.

  • Avoid machine washing embroidered garments and non-woven fabric, like viscose or suede
  • Use laundry mesh bags for washing clothing such as mittens, gloves, and small hats and scarves
  • Your washer’s instruction manual and each garment’s washing machine care symbols can help you choose the right laundry settings for your favorite winter pieces

Basic washing machine safety

Maintaining washing machine safety is important, especially with heavy winter wear. Here’s how you can keep your washer rolling (not rocking) all year long.

  • Stabilize your washer on an even floor to avoid tipping/excessive movement during use
  • Limit detergent and load size to prevent stained clothes, washer smells, and damaged motors
  • Make sure your washer has a drip pan to catch water in case of a leak
  • Check for rust biannually and remove it with lemon juice on an empty hot water cycle

 

Water leak on the floor beneath a washing machine, showing a common issue with appliance maintenance. Ideal for content on troubleshooting washing machine problems, home maintenance, and appliance repairs.

 

Washer and dryer maintenance for many loads to come

In all seasons, it’s important to make sure your washer and dryer are always ready for the next batch of laundry, whatever it may bring. To keep your laundry appliances in tip-top shape, explore our articles on washer and dryer maintenance. 

Using your washer and dryer safely helps them last longer and work more efficiently. Learn how our homeowners are handled with the utmost care when they experience unexpected breakdowns of major home systems and appliances by exploring our coverage guide  or calling 800.648.5006 today.

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