A washing machine is one of the hardest-working appliances in any home, and a good one is built to last well over a decade. Whether it actually reaches that age depends almost entirely on how you maintain it.

The good news is that washing-machine maintenance is simple and mostly free. Follow these 8 maintenance tips to extend your machine's life and avoid costly breakdowns:

1. Clean the Drum Monthly

Run an empty wash on the hottest cycle with a washing-machine cleaner or a cup of white vinegar once a month. This flushes out hidden detergent residue, mold, and odours from the drum and pipes.

2. Empty the Lint and Drain Filter Regularly

The drain filter catches coins, pins, and lint that would otherwise jam the pump. Open and clean it at least once a month to prevent drainage failures and bad smells.

3. Don't Overload the Drum

Stuffing the drum strains the motor, bearings, and suspension, and clothes don't wash properly. Leave a hand's width of space at the top so laundry can tumble freely.

4. Use the Right Amount of Detergent

More soap does not mean cleaner clothes. Excess detergent leaves residue that builds up, smells, and clogs the system. Measure the dose to your load size, and use less in soft-water conditions.

5. Leave the Door Open After Washing

Closing a damp machine traps moisture and breeds mold, especially on the front-load door gasket. Leave the door and detergent drawer slightly open between washes so the inside dries out.

6. Check and Clean the Inlet Hoses

Inspect the water inlet hoses for kinks, bulges, or cracks a couple of times a year, and clean the small inlet filter mesh. This prevents both leaks and slow-fill problems.

7. Keep the Machine Level

A machine that rocks vibrates harder, wearing out the bearings and dampers faster. Adjust the threaded feet until it sits perfectly flat, and check it with a bubble level.

8. Descale in Hard-Water Areas

Hard water leaves limescale on the heating element and drum, reducing efficiency. Use a descaling agent every few months if your area has hard water to keep the machine running smoothly.

Book Professional Washing Machine Servicing in Kolkata

Pair these habits with a professional service once a year for the longest possible machine life. Book a doorstep servicing with Appliance Service Kolkata for only ₹299 inspection (adjusted in your final bill). Call us at +91 8240528725 today!