Dos and Don'ts for Extending the Life of Your Washer and Dryer

Do: Clean Your Washing Machine

Just like cleaning your dishwasher can make your dishes sparkle and the appliance last longer, the same is true for your washing machine. A clean washing machine will not only get your clothes cleaner, but it will also help maintain the appliance.

Clean your machine thoroughly, or if your machine has a "Tub Clean Cycle," run it once a month or after every 30 washes. This will help remove lingering soap scum and buildup.

Do: Remove Wet Clothes ASAP

Leaving wet clothes in the washing machine isn't just bad for the garments, but also for the appliance itself. To prevent the growth of mold and mildew inside the machine, always try to remove items as soon as possible after the wash cycle is completed.

Do: Check Your Pockets

You've heard it before: Always check your pockets before throwing clothes in the wash. But did you know that skipping this step can be bad for your appliance, too? "Metal items like coins and keys can damage the inner tub of the washer, so make sure to check your pockets before doing a load," says Johnson.

If you accidentally forget, be sure to clear out the drain pump filter on a front-loading washer, which is designed to catch these items.

Do: Clean the Dryer Lint Filter and Vent

"For dryer maintenance, one of the best things to do is to make sure you clean the lint trap after every use. This will help prevent fire hazards and keep the dryer operating optimally," explains Johnson. Luckily. It's a 10-second chore that can make all the difference.

Clear out the dryer vent, or the duct that leads from the machine to the outside of your house, at least once per year. It's a little more time-consuming, yet still important.

Don't: Use Too Much Detergent

More detergent does not actually get your clothes cleaner. Besides leaving soapy residue on your clothing, Johnson points out that too much detergent can actually create a lingering odor in your washer.

Need one more reason to avoid pouring in more than the recommended amount? "It also causes your washer to operate longer, using additional rinse cycles to remove soap," explains Johnson.

Don't: Use Too Many Dryer Sheets

In the dryer, throwing in too many dryer sheets is the equivalent of pouring too much detergent into the washing machine. "Using too many dryer sheets can also leave an unwanted layer of residue on your dryer, which could affect performance long-term and your clothing," warns Johnson.

Don't worry, you can still get soft, fresh-smelling laundry with alternatives to dryer sheets.

Don't: Dry Items With Plastic and Rubber

Steam from the dryer can end up melting items with plastic or rubber parts, like sneakers with rubber soles. And in turn, those items could potentially damage the appliance. Instead, let these items air-dry in a spot with good ventilation.