Front Load Washing Machine Tips and Tricks By Zalmen Pollak

One thing you should know before bringing home your new and highly efficient front load washing machine is that this is not your mother’s old washing machine. Your old habits have to change if you are to get the most out of your purchase. Front loading washing machine is different in almost every way from your trusty old top load washer.
We scoured various sources for tips and tricks from the users experts and front load washing machine owners. Read our list and save yourself time and money as you level the legs and put in your first load.

1) Always Use High-Efficiency Detergent
High-efficiency detergent is specially formulated for use in the front load washing machines. Manufacturers will routinely recommend using only this type of soap in their machines because it is concentrated and produces less suds.

2) Leave the Door Open When not in Use
These washers are notorious for putting off an unpleasant scent. This can be the result of the formation of mold around door seals designed to keep water from leaking out during each cycle. If keeping the door open does not help dry things out and prevent mold, there may be other sources behind the smell in your washer.

3) Regularly Run the Machine Cleaning Cycle
Run the cleaning cycle at least as often as the Whirlpool manufacturer suggests to prevent potential problems with mold or mildew. Some front-loading washing machine users report success with adding commercial products like Affresh and Smelly Washer, which are soaps designed specifically to keep mold and mildew from forming on the inner workings of your front load washing machine.

4) Leave the Dispenser Drawer out When not in Use
Many people recommend leaving the dispenser drawer out when not in use. Front-load washing machine users have reported the formation of mold in their detergent compartments if they are allowed to stay wet.

5) Plan for Efficiency
Front-load washing machine cycles tend to be longer than top load cycles. Using so much less water means it may take a little more time to get things clean. Don’t lament the loss of time, however. The higher spin speeds can lead to shorter drying times because they leave less water in the clothing than the slower speeds of traditional washers.