Best Washing Machine Hacks

Laundry: it’s the chore that we can never seem to quite catch up on. So it’s important to get the most out of your washing machine and smash through those dirty clothes. Canstar Blue explores the best washing machine hacks.

Laundry hacks

Laundry can be a chore, but with some clever hacks, you can make the process more efficient and effective. Here are some laundry hacks to simplify your routine:

1. Sort clothes properly

Always separate your clothes based on colour and fabric type before washing. Washing similar fabrics and colors together prevents colour bleeding and damage to delicate fabrics.

2. Opt for high-efficiency detergent

Use high-efficiency detergent specifically designed for modern washing machines. Such detergents are formulated to produce less suds and are more effective in high-efficiency machines.

3. Adjust water temperature

Use the appropriate water temperature for different types of fabrics and stains. Hot water is effective for removing tough stains and sanitising, while cold water is gentler on delicate fabrics and helps prevent shrinking and colour fading.

→Related article: Washing Machine Cycles Explained

Compare electricity providers

To help you find the best value electricity retailer, Canstar Blue rates NZ power companies for customer satisfaction and value for money, see the table below for some of the results, or you can click on the button below for the full results of our survey.

Canstar Blue’s latest review of NZ power companies compares them on customer satisfaction. The table below is an abridged version of our full results, available here.

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* Overall satisfaction is an individual rating and not a combined total of all ratings. By default, brands with equal overall satisfaction ratings are sorted by the mean overall satisfaction score as rated by consumers. You can click the arrows at the top of any column in the table to sort by the results in that column.
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→Related article: Most Energy-Efficient Washing Machines

Cleaning hacks

Keeping your washing machine clean is essential for maintaining its performance and preventing odours and mould growth. Here are some effective cleaning hacks for your washing machine:

1. Use vinegar to clean

Regularly clean your washing machine by running a cycle with vinegar. This helps remove soap scum, mineral deposits, and odours, keeping your machine fresh and functioning well.

2. Clean the lint filter

Regularly clean the lint filter in your washing machine to prevent clogs and improve drying efficiency. A clean lint filter also reduces the risk of fire hazards in dryers.

3. Leave the door open

After completing a wash cycle, leave the washing machine door slightly ajar to allow air circulation and prevent mould and mildew growth.

Maintenance hacks

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your washing machine running smoothly and efficiently. Here are some maintenance hacks to help you keep your washing machine in tip top shape:

1. Use less detergent

Avoid using more detergent than necessary. Excess detergent can leave residue on clothes and cause soap buildup in the washing machine, leading to odour and reduced efficiency.

2. Level the machine

Ensure that your washing machine is level and balanced to prevent excessive vibration and noise during the spin cycle. Use a bubble level to check and adjust the machine’s levelling feet as needed.

Inspect the drain pump

Periodically check the drain pump for any obstructions, such as lint, coins, or small objects. Clear any blockages to ensure proper water drainage and prevent damage to the pump.

→Related article: Washing Machines With Agitators: Good or Bad?

If all this washer talk has got you thinking about purchasing a new washing machine, but you’re not sure what option may be right for you, be sure to check out our washing machine buying guide by clicking the button below.

Compare washing machine providers for free with Canstar!

About the author of this page

This report was written by Canstar Content Producer, Caitlin Bingham. Caitlin is an experienced writer whose passion for creativity led her to study communication and journalism. She began her career freelancing as a content writer, before joining the Canstar team.

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