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How to Use an Automatic Washing Machine: Easy Guide

An automatic washing machine is a household appliance that is designed to wash laundry automatically. It consists of a drum that holds the laundry, a water inlet to add water and detergent, and a control panel to set the wash cycle and other settings.

Using an automatic washing machine is a convenient and efficient way to wash your clothes, saving time and effort compared to washing by hand. In this guide, we’ll know the easiest method of using an automatic washing machine along with safety measures and laundry hacks.

Dos and Don’ts

Here are some quick tips on what to do and what not to do when using an automatic washing machine:

DO:

  • Sort your laundry by color, fabric, and level of soiling to prevent bleeding and shrinkage.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding detergent and other laundry products to the machine.
  • Check pockets and remove any items that may damage the machine or get lost during the wash cycle.
  • Use the appropriate wash cycle and settings for the items you are washing.

DON’T:

  • Overload the machine, as this can cause damage and reduce the effectiveness of the wash.
  • Wash items that are not suitable for machine washing, such as delicate or dry clean only items.
  • Use too much detergent, as this can cause excess suds and leave residue on your laundry.
  • Leave wet laundry in the machine for an extended period of time, as this can lead to odors and bacteria growth.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your automatic washing machine operates efficiently and effectively.

Also, you can look through the guide of semi-automatic vs fully-automatic washing machine to know which type can suit you the most.

How to Use an Automatic Washing Machine?

Here are the key takeaways of how to use a washing machine if you are in a hurry:

  1. Sort your laundry into piles based on color, fabric, and level of soiling.
  2. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding detergent and other laundry products to the machine.
  3. Place your laundry in the drum of the machine, making sure not to overload it.
  4. Close the door of the machine and select the desired wash cycle and settings on the control panel.
  5. Start the machine by pressing the “start” button.
  6. Wait for the wash cycle to complete and then unload the clean laundry from the drum.
  7. Transfer the laundry to the dryer or hang it to dry, following the care instructions for the items.
  8. Check pockets and remove any items that may damage the machine or get lost during the wash cycle.
  9. Use the appropriate wash cycle and settings for the items you are washing.
  10. Avoid washing items that are not suitable for machine washing, such as delicate or dry clean only items.
However, if you want to deeply understand the functioning and usage tips of an automatic washing machine, we suggest you to read further every important point in this guide.

Don’t Leave the clothes in the washing machine too long

_Don’t Leave the Clothes in the Machine Too Long

It is important to not leave your clothes in the washing machine for an extended period of time after the wash cycle has completed. Doing so can lead to a variety of problems and inconvenience. Here are some reasons why you should avoid leaving your clothes in the washing machine for too long:

  1. Odors: Wet laundry that is left in the machine for too long can begin to develop odors due to the growth of bacteria and fungi. This can result in your clothes smelling unpleasant and potentially making you sick.
  2. Wrinkles: Wet laundry left in the machine for too long can become wrinkled, making it more difficult to iron or hang up properly.
  3. Staining: Wet laundry left in the machine for too long can become stained due to the accumulation of dirt and bacteria. This can be especially problematic for light-colored clothes.
  4. Deterioration: Wet laundry left in the machine for too long can become damaged and deteriorate over time. This can lead to holes, tears, and other issues that can ruin your clothes.

Overall, it is best to remove your laundry from the washing machine as soon as the wash cycle is complete to avoid these problems. Make sure to transfer the clothes to the dryer or hang them up to dry to prevent any issues.

Preset Programs

Preset Programs of a washing machine

Many automatic washing machines come equipped with preset programs that allow you to easily select the appropriate wash cycle and settings for different types of laundry. These programs can be very convenient and help to ensure that your clothes are washed and cared for properly. Here is how to use the preset programs in an automatic washing machine:

    1. Select the appropriate preset program for the type of laundry you are washing. For example, you might choose a program for delicates, heavy soiling, or whites.
    2. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding detergent and other laundry products to the machine.
    3. Place your laundry in the drum of the machine, making sure not to overload it.
    4. Close the door of the machine and press the “start” button.
    5. The machine will automatically select the appropriate wash cycle and settings based on the preset program you have chosen.
    6. Wait for the wash cycle to complete and then unload the clean laundry from the drum.
    7. Transfer the laundry to the dryer or hang it to dry, following the care instructions for the items.

By using the preset programs in your automatic washing machine, you can easily and conveniently wash different types of laundry with the appropriate care. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and any care labels on your clothes to ensure that they are washed and cared for properly.

It is important to note that preset programs are usually more expensive than manual models, but they will save you time and money in the long run.

2. Energy Efficiency

There are several ways to use an automatic washing machine in a way that can help you save more energy:

    1. Use cold water: Washing your clothes in cold water can significantly reduce energy usage. Most clothes can be washed in cold water, and modern detergents are effective at cleaning in cold water.
    2. Wash full loads: Washing full loads can help to reduce the overall number of wash cycles, leading to energy savings.
    3. Use the appropriate wash cycle: Selecting the appropriate wash cycle for the type and soiling level of your laundry can help to reduce energy usage.
  1. Choose an energy-efficient model: An energy-efficient washing machine will use less energy to operate, resulting in energy savings over time.
  2. Only use the machine when necessary: Avoid using the washing machine for small loads or lightly soiled items, as this can be an unnecessary use of energy.
  3. By following these tips, you can use your automatic washing machine in a more energy-efficient way, helping to reduce your energy costs and environmental impact.

3. Don’t Overload Your Washer

Don't overload your Washing Machine_

It is important to not overload your automatic washing machine, as this can cause a variety of problems and potentially damage the machine. Here are some reasons why you should avoid overloading your washing machine:

  1. Reduced performance: An overloaded washing machine will not be able to clean your clothes effectively, resulting in reduced performance.
  2. Increased energy usage: An overloaded machine will have to work harder to clean the laundry, resulting in increased energy usage.
  3. Increased wear and tear: An overloaded machine will be subject to more wear and tear due to the increased load, potentially leading to a shorter lifespan.
  4. Damage to the machine: Overloading the machine can cause damage to the drum, motor, and other components, leading to costly repairs.
  5. Damage to your clothes: Overloading the machine can cause your clothes to become tangled and potentially damaged, leading to wear and tear.

Read this guide if you want to know how many clothes you should put in a washing machine according to its capacity. 

4. Don’t Keep the Washing Machine on a Platform.

It is important to not keep your automatic washing machine on a platform or other elevated surface, as this can cause a variety of problems and potentially damage the machine. Here are some reasons why you should avoid keeping your washing machine on a platform:

  1. Reduced stability: A washing machine on a platform may be less stable and more prone to shaking and vibrating during the wash cycle. This can cause damage to the machine and potentially result in leaks or other issues.
  2. Increased noise: A washing machine on a platform may be noisier due to the vibrations caused by the wash cycle. This can be disruptive and unpleasant.
  3. Reduced performance: A washing machine on a platform may not be able to operate as efficiently and effectively, resulting in reduced performance.
  4. Increased wear and tear: A washing machine on a platform may be subject to more wear and tear due to the vibrations caused by the wash cycle. This can lead to a shorter lifespan and potentially costly repairs.

Thus, you must keep your automatic washing machine on a platform or other elevated surface to ensure that it operates effectively and efficiently, and to protect the machine itself. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for the appropriate installation of the machine.

5. Don’t Ignore the Tags on Your Clothes

While you wash clothes in an automatic washing machine, be sure not to ignore the tags on the clothes. These tags provide important care instructions that can help to preserve the quality and longevity of your clothes. Here are some reasons why you should pay attention to the tags on your clothes:

  1. Fabric care: The tags on your clothes will indicate the appropriate care instructions for the fabric, such as the recommended water temperature, wash cycle, and drying method. Ignoring these instructions can lead to shrinkage, fading, or other damage to the clothes.
  2. Stain removal: The tags on your clothes may also provide tips for removing stains, such as the appropriate type of detergent to use. Ignoring these tips can result in the stains becoming set, leading to permanent damage.
  3. Preserving the fit: The tags on your clothes may also indicate whether the item should be hung to dry or put in the dryer. Ignoring these instructions can result in the clothes shrinking or becoming misshapen.

Hence, you should always pay attention to the tags on your clothes when washing them in an automatic washing machine to ensure that they are cared for properly and to preserve their quality and fit. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and care labels on your clothes to ensure that they are washed and cared for properly.

6. Don’t Use the Wrong Settings

don't use wrong setting in a Washing Machine_

Be aware! If you do wrong settings when using an automatic washing machine, this can cause a variety of problems and potentially damage your clothes and the machine itself. Here are some reasons why you should be careful to use the appropriate settings:

  1. Reduced performance: Using the wrong settings can result in reduced performance, such as clothes not being cleaned effectively or cycle times being extended.
  2. Increased energy usage: Using the wrong settings can result in increased energy usage, as the machine may have to work harder to clean the laundry or run for a longer period of time.
  3. Damage to the machine: Using the wrong settings can cause damage to the machine, such as excessive wear and tear or malfunction.
  4. Damage to your clothes: Using the wrong settings can cause damage to your clothes, such as shrinkage, fading, or fabric damage.

So, what can be the solution? Well, its pretty simple.

To avoid these problems, it is important to use the appropriate settings for the type and soiling level of your laundry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and any care labels on your clothes to ensure that you are using the correct settings. Additionally, be sure to select the appropriate wash cycle and settings for the items you are washing to ensure optimal performance and care.

7. Never Add Too Much Detergent

Never Add Too Much Detergent in a Washing Machine

You may think more detergent is better, but this logic does not apply to how much detergent you use in your machine. It can cause reduced performance, increased energy usage, damage to the machine, and damage to your clothes.

Using the appropriate amount of detergent for the size and soiling level of your laundry and measuring it carefully will help to avoid these problems. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and any care labels on your clothes to ensure that you are using the correct amount of detergent.

If you want expert tips from our side, then the appropriate amount of detergent to use in an automatic washing machine depends on the size of the load and the level of soiling of the laundry. In general, it is best to use the minimum amount of detergent necessary to effectively clean your clothes. Also, you can read guides online such as this one to know the proper amount of detergent to use in an automatic washing machine.

9. Always Clean Your Dispensers

Always Clean Your Washing Machine's Dispensers

We suggest you to clean the dispensers of your automatic washing machine two times in a month to ensure that they are functioning properly and to prevent build-up of detergent and other residues.

Neglecting to clean the dispensers can lead to a variety of problems, including reduced performance, increased energy usage, damage to the machine, and damage to your clothes. Here are some steps you can follow to clean your washing machine dispensers:

  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning the dispensers.
  • Remove any visible dirt or debris from the dispensers using a soft cloth or sponge.
  • Wipe the dispensers with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent to remove any remaining dirt or residue.
  • Rinse the dispensers thoroughly with clean water.
  • Dry the dispensers completely before adding detergent or other laundry products.
  • Repeat this process regularly to ensure that the dispensers are clean and functioning properly.

By cleaning your washing machine dispensers regularly, you can ensure that they are functioning properly and that your clothes are being washed and cared for effectively. This will also help to avoid problems and extend the lifespan of your machine.

Here Are 5 Tips for Maintaining Your Washing Machine

Maintaining a washing machine is important to ensure that it is functioning properly and efficiently, and to extend its lifespan. Neglecting to maintain your machine can lead to a variety of problems, including reduced performance, increased energy usage, damage to the machine, and damage to your clothes.

Regular maintenance can help to prevent these issues and ensure that your machine is operating at its best. This applies to any washing machine, whether semi-automatic or fully automatic.

Here are 5 tips to care for your washing machine, so it lasts longer and requires less maintenance.

Tip 1: Keep Your Washer Machine at an Even Level

Keep Your Washer Machine at an Even Level

People make this as the most common mistake especially when using top load washing machines. If you keep your automatic washing machine at an even level, it will ensure that it is functioning properly and to prevent damage to the machine. An uneven machine can vibrate excessively during the wash cycle, leading to reduced performance and potential damage.

Here are some steps you can follow to keep your washing machine at an even level:

  • Use a spirit level or other tool to check the level of the machine.
  • Adjust the feet of the machine as needed to achieve an even level.
  • Check the level of the machine periodically to ensure that it remains even.

By keeping your washing machine at an even level, you can ensure that it is functioning properly and avoid problems such as excessive vibrations and potential damage. This will also help to extend the lifespan of your machine and improve its performance.

Tip 2: Make Sure to Clean the Filter Regularly

Make Sure to Clean the Filter Regularly

The filter of a washing machine is responsible for trapping lint, hair, and other debris that can accumulate during the wash cycle. If the filter is not cleaned regularly, these materials can build up and interfere with the machine’s performance.

In addition, a dirty filter can cause the machine to work harder, leading to increased energy usage and potentially damaging the machine. To avoid these problems, it is important to clean the filter of your washing machine regularly.

This can be done easily by following the manufacturer’s instructions and removing any visible dirt or debris from the filter. Cleaning the filter regularly will help to ensure that your machine is functioning properly and to extend its lifespan.

You can wash the lint filter using clean water. Also, washing machine filters nowadays are the best since it requires too less maintenance and contain features like auto-clean.

Tip 3: Keep The Washing Machine in a Ventilated Area

Keep The Washing Machine in a Ventilated Area

Keeping your automatic washing machine in a well-ventilated area is highly beneficial. It will ensure that it is functioning properly and to prevent overheating and potential damage. A machine that is placed in a poorly ventilated area may not be able to dissipate heat effectively, which can cause it to overheat and potentially malfunction.

In addition, a machine that is placed in a damp or humid area may be subject to corrosion and other issues that can reduce its lifespan. To avoid these problems, it is important to keep your washing machine in a well-ventilated area.

This can help to ensure that the machine is able to dissipate heat effectively and operate at its best. A well-ventilated area will also help to prevent problems such as corrosion and other damage caused by moisture. By following these guidelines, you can help to extend the lifespan of your machine and avoid problems.

Tip 4: Wash the Washing Machine.

You should clean your automatic washing machine regularly to remove dirt, grime, and other build-up that can accumulate over time. Neglecting to clean the machine can lead to a variety of problems, including reduced performance, increased energy usage, damage to the machine, and damage to your clothes. Here are some steps you can follow to clean your washing machine:

  1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning the machine.
  2. Unplug the machine and remove any visible dirt or debris from the interior and exterior of the machine.
  3. Wipe the interior and exterior of the machine with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent to remove any remaining dirt or grime.
  4. Rinse the interior and exterior of the machine thoroughly with clean water.
  5. Dry the interior and exterior of the machine completely before using it again.
  6. Repeat this process regularly to ensure that the machine is clean and functioning properly.

By cleaning your washing machine regularly, you can ensure that it is functioning properly and extend its lifespan. This will also help to avoid problems and ensure that your clothes are being washed and cared for effectively.

Washing machines of different brands also have tub hygiene or self-clean cycle. These cycles clean your washing machine, remove soap scum and clean your clothes. Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the front load washing machine’s door.

Then, let the air circulate by leaving it open. Semi-automatic washing machines also have dryers that are essential for efficient washing. It should be cleaned from time to time.

Tip 5: Wipe the Fabric Softener and Detergent Compartments Periodically

Wipe the Fabric Softener and Detergent Compartments Periodically

Using the detergent drawer, it is easy to measure how much detergent you need for each load of laundry. The detergent drawer can become clogged over time, making it difficult for the fresh detergent to reach your wash tub.

Wipe the fabric softener and detergent compartments of your automatic washing machine periodically to remove dirt, grime, and other build-up that can accumulate over time.

Follow these steps you can follow to clean these compartments:

  1. Remove any visible dirt or debris from the compartments using a soft cloth or sponge.
  2. Wipe the compartments with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent to remove any remaining dirt or grime.
  3. Rinse the compartments thoroughly with clean water.
  4. Dry the compartments completely before adding fabric softener or detergent.
  5. Repeat this process regularly to ensure that the compartments are clean and functioning properly.

Air circulation allows the washing machine to dry completely before it is closed. This prevents mould and mildew growth that can make clothes smell bad. 

Nishant

Nishant Rajput is the CEO and the head author at top10productsindia.in. He recently returned from Melbourne, Australia, after studies. Nishant is an engineer and carries colossal enthusiasm for guiding the Indian public to invest money in the right products. He hires a paid team of experts for analyzing data and narrating comprehensive reviews & guides! Besides that, he's a martial artist, gym freak, guitarist, and singer.

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