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There is no doubt that the washing machine works the hardest in a household. Even high-quality appliances cannot cope with the task if something is wrong. Stains, unpleasant odor, residue, and insufficient cleanliness of the clothes do not always depend on the malfunction of the device. In fact, it is necessary to check if the clothes is not washed well because of the improper operation of the washing machine, its poor maintenance, or the incorrect usage of the detergent. So, before inviting a professional or buying a new appliance, it is worth considering several common problems that prevent the appliance from providing properly cleaned clothes.


You're overloading the drum


The major cause of why clothes is not clean is overloading the washing machine. There will be no place for water and detergent to circulate if there are too many pieces of clothes in the drum. Therefore, the dirt will stay in the fabric and not be washed. Moreover, the clothes rub against each other. Cleaning smaller loads usually brings better results.


You're using too much or too little detergent


It does not necessarily mean that the more detergent you use, the cleaner the clothes will be. Excessive usage of the detergent leads to the accumulation of sticky residues, which capture the dirt and cause the unpleasant odor of the clothes. At the same time, too little detergent will not be able to remove sweat, grease, or other stains. It is recommended to use the amount of the detergent recommended by its manufacturer.


The washing machine needs cleaning


It is ironic, but it is impossible to properly clean the clothes with the dirty washing machine. In fact, the residue of the detergent, fabric fibers, mold, and bacteria gather in the drum, rubber door seal, and detergent dispenser of the machine with time. This causes the odor, which does not disappear even after washing. Regular cleaning of the washing machine with a cleaner or hot water as well as the cleaning of rubber seals and dispensers helps in maintaining the efficiency of the appliance.


The water temperature is not correct


Different types of clothes and stains need different water temperatures. In particular, the washing of heavily soiled clothes in cold water does not guarantee that oil, grease, and bacteria will be removed properly. Very hot water damages delicate clothes. The clothes is usually cleaned well with warm water, while the delicate garments should be washed in cooler water. Checking the care labels and choosing the right water temperature helps to get better washing results.


The filter is clogged


There is the filter of the machine, which collects various objects (lint, coins, hair, buttons, etc.). If the filter is clogged, the water cannot drain properly, and the clothes stays wetter and dirtier than usual after the end of the cycle. Periodical cleaning of the filter according to the manufacturer's instructions guarantees proper drainage of the water during each wash.


The wrong wash program is selected


Modern washing machines have various washing programs for different fabrics and soils. Using the quick cycle for the clothes with heavy stains is unlikely to provide sufficient time for the complete removal of the dirt. Similarly, delicate programs have less agitation and are not suitable for the everyday laundry. Selecting the right program according to the fabric type and the degree of soiling allows to achieve better washing results.


The hard water affects the machine efficiency


The areas where hard water is used lead to the accumulation of the minerals which decrease the efficiency of the detergent and the appearance of limescale in the machine. It reduces the effectiveness of the machine and its life. In case the area where you live has hard water, it is advisable to use the detergents specially made for hard water.


Disclaimer:


This article provides general home maintenance advice. Always refer to your washing machine's user manual for cleaning, maintenance, and troubleshooting instructions specific to your appliance model.