Although an open washing machine door may seem to help fight mold, in reality it is not a good idea. Not closing the door does not increase protection against mold at all. How to take care of this appliance?
The washing machine is one of the most used appliances in the house. Most of us use it at least several times a week, so proper care of this equipment is the key to its long and trouble-free operation.
One common mistake that can affect the life of a washing machine is leaving the door open after the wash cycle is complete. While this may seem to help ventilate the drum, it can actually do more harm than good.
Open washing machine door – why is it risky?
Opening the washing machine door after the wash is finished seems like an intuitive way to get rid of moisture from inside the drum. In reality, however, this approach can lead to faster wear and tear of some of the appliance’s components, such as hinges and seals. When you leave the door open for an extended period of time, you risk weakening the hinges and damaging the closing mechanism, which can affect the tightness of the washing machine.
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The door of a washing machine plays a key role not only in protecting the drum from water leakage, but also in pressing clothes and sealing the entire system. An open door also exposes the rubber seals to evaporation, which over time can lead to cracking and leaks. And it is the tightness that is essential to the proper functioning of the washing machine.
Myth about “airing” the washing machine
Leaving the door open for a few minutes after the laundry is finished is actually a good idea, so that the drum can evaporate residual moisture. However, prolonged airing is not necessary, and may even lead to weakening of structural components.
The washing machine can be effectively dried in a short period of time after the wash cycle, and leaving the door completely open does not increase protection against mold. On the contrary, excess air entering the interior of the washing machine can, over time, contribute to the accumulation of dirt and bacteria that promote mold growth.
How to take care of a washing machine to make it last for years?
To ensure the work of the washing machine at a high level for a long time, it is worth remembering a few rules:
- Use the right cleaners – Specialized washing machine cleaners remove residues of washing powders and liquids, as well as grease that can accumulate in the drum and pipes. Their regular use is much more effective than leaving the door open.
- Wipe the gasket after every wash – It is the rubber around the washing machine door where moisture and dirt are most likely to accumulate. Simply wipe it with a damp cloth to minimize the risk of evaporation and bacterial growth.
- High-temperature washing of the drum – High-temperature washing, especially with vinegar or special antibacterial agents, will help keep the inside of the washing machine clean. It’s a good idea to do this once every few months to remove buildup.
- Close the washing machine door after a short airing – Leaving the door ajar for a few minutes after washing is enough for the residual moisture to evaporate. After that, it’s a good idea to close them to reduce the risk of damage to the hinges and lock.
