5 Washing Machine Myths Debunked

The most frequently used appliance at home is none other than the washing machine. Do you really use it correctly and wash cleanly every day? Below, we debunk 5 major myths about 'washing machine cleaning and maintenance', teaching you how to easily extend the machine's lifespan, eliminate mold and odors, and save water and electricity. It's suitable whether you're renting or owning a home!

Myth 1｜"Washing machine is used daily, naturally cleansed by water?"

• ❌ Machine compartment stays damp for long → Accumulation of mold, odor, black residues
• ✅ Use a compartment cleaning program once a month: Pour in a dedicated compartment cleaner or 1 cup of baking soda + ½ cup of white vinegar, high water level + 60 °C empty machine operation, then rinse once more
• ✅ After washing clothes, leave the door open for 2 hours, to dissipate heat and air-dry the rubber seal, preventing musty smell

Myth 2｜"More laundry detergent = cleaner clothes?"

• ❌ Excessive foaming → Residue sticks to the drum, and clothes may retain powder and turn yellow
• ✅ Adjust according to the "amount per kilogram of clothes" on the package by reducing 20%; Hong Kong's soft water area already makes it easy to foam, too much powder/liquid is absolutely wasteful and dirties the machine slot

Myth 3｜"Is continuous quick wash the most water and energy saving?"

• ❌ Quick wash uses less water + shorter soaking time, only suitable for light sweat odor; if clothes are really dirty, they won't be cleaned properly
• ✅ For more stains, use the "standard/40°C" program; fill the machine to 70% capacity each time for the most energy saving without damaging the machine

Myth 4｜"Does placing the washer back against the wall save space?"

• ❌ Back against the wall traps heat → Overheating compressor prone to damage
• ✅ Leave 10 cm at the back, 2 cm on the sides, and 20 cm at the top for heat dissipation; Keep the drain pipe in an S-shape bend to prevent backflow of pest odors

Myth 5｜"Washing with cold water is the most environmentally friendly, hot water is wasteful?"

• ✅ In summer, when there is less sweat, cold water can be used; however, pillowcases, towels, and underwear need to be sterilized with 60 °C hot water every two weeks, especially in small units where clothes dry slowly and humidity is high, washing with hot water can prevent mildew smell

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