Published on January 15, 2026 by Service Center Kanyakumari Team
A washing machine is one of the most hard-working appliances in any household. When properly maintained, it can deliver years of reliable service. However, neglecting basic upkeep often leads to musty odors, low spin speeds, drainage leaks, and expensive motor or drum bearing failures. Here are 5 simple, expert-recommended weekly routines to keep your washing machine running like new.
This is the simplest and most effective habit to develop. Once your laundry cycle is finished, do not lock the door or lid. Leaving the door slightly open allows the interior drum to air-dry completely, which prevents the development of mildew, mold, and sour, damp odors inside the rubber door bellow gaskets.
For front-load washing machines, the rubber gasket around the door opening is a magnet for residual moisture, lint, hair, and detergent slime. Take a damp micro-fiber cloth and wipe inside the folds of the gasket once a week. Removing this build-up prevents slimy deposits that damage the rubber and cause water leaks during spin cycles.
Over time, laundry detergents and fabric softeners form a thin waxy layer (known as soap scum) on the outer surface of the drum, which you cannot see. Once a month, run a dedicated "Tub Clean" or standard "Cotton Hot 90°C" empty cycle. Add a cup of white vinegar or a certified washing machine descaled powder to break down soap scum and hard water scale.
Most modern front loaders and automatic top loaders feature a small access door at the bottom corner that houses the drain pump filter. This filter captures loose coins, safety pins, keys, and heavy lint clumps to protect the drain motor impeller. Place a shallow tray under the filter cap, twist it open carefully, clean out the trapped debris, wash it, and screw it back tightly.
It is tempting to wash as many clothes as possible in a single cycle to save time, but overloading places severe stress on the drive belt, motor windings, and the drum suspension shock rods. It also causes the drum bearings to wear out prematurely, leading to loud rumbling noises during spin cycles. Fill the drum only up to three-quarters of its capacity to allow clothes to tumble freely.