Washing Machine Habits to Save Money & Make It Last 

                                                           "You're succeeding if you're saving." Burkholder, Steve

Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. Taking care of everyday items—like your washing machine—can save you money, time, and a lot of headaches down the road. Ignore it, and what was once a helpful appliance could become an expensive problem.

Your washing machine does a lot: it saves hours of hand-washing and keeps your clothes fresh. But using the wrong settings, overloading it, or skipping maintenance can quietly shorten its life and hike up costs.

The good news? With a few simple habits, you can make your washing machine last longer, work more efficiently, and even save some cash. Here’s how to do it.

Use the Right Load Size

One of the easiest ways to keep your washing machine in tip-top shape is to load it properly. Sure, stuffing it full might seem like a time-saver, but overloading actually makes the drum and motor work harder—and your clothes don’t get as clean.

On the other hand, washing just a few items at a time wastes water and energy. The sweet spot? Fill the drum about three-quarters full. This gives clothes room to move, helps them come out cleaner, and keeps your machine happy.

Choose the Right Wash Settings

Most of us just stick to one or two washing machine cycles out of habit. But picking the right setting can save your clothes, your machine, and even your energy bill.

Cold water is perfect for everyday laundry—it’s gentle on colors and uses less energy.

Short cycles work well for lightly soiled clothes.

Eco or energy-saving modes help cut water and electricity use.

Instead of always hitting “quick wash,” take a moment to match the cycle to your load. Over time, these little tweaks can keep your machine running smoothly and save you money.

Keep Your Machine Clean

It might sound funny, but your washing machine needs a little TLC too. Soap scum, lint, and dirt can pile up, causing smells and even making it work less efficiently.

A quick monthly clean works wonders: run an empty hot cycle with a bit of white vinegar and baking soda. Don’t forget the rubber door seal—it traps moisture and can grow mold if ignored. Wipe it down after each wash. And check the detergent drawer too; keeping it free of buildup ensures soap and softener flow smoothly.

Use the Right Detergent & Amount

It’s easy to think that more detergent equals cleaner clothes, but that’s a myth. Overdoing it can leave soap residue, make rinsing harder, and even build up inside your washer over time.

If you have a (High-Efficiency (HE) machine,) use HE detergent—it’s low-sudsing and works perfectly with less water. A good rule? Measure based on the size of your load and how dirty the clothes are. Most loads don’t need a full capful.

Being mindful not only keeps your clothes fresh but also saves money and helps your washer last longer.

Check and Maintain Regularly

Think of your washing machine like a car—it loves a little regular TLC. A few simple habits can save you from costly repairs down the line.

Inspect hoses: Every few months, check for cracks or leaks. Swapping a $10 hose now beats dealing with water damage later.

Keep it level: An uneven machine shakes a lot during spins, which can harm the drum and your floor.

Air it out: After each wash, leave the door slightly open so air circulates and mold doesn’t take hold.

These small, easy habits don’t cost much but make your washer last longer and run smoother.

Save Energy & Water Smartly

Your washing machine isn’t just working hard on your clothes—it’s also quietly racking up your bills. The good news? A few smart tweaks can save both money and energy.

Wash full loads whenever you can. It’s more efficient than running several half-empty cycles.

Use cold water for most washes. Heating water eats up a lot of energy, and many detergents clean just fine in cold water.

Laundry timing matters If your utility rates are lower during off-peak hours, do your laundry then—it’s a simple way to save.

These little habits add up, keeping your bills down and helping the planet at the same time.

Conclusion

Keeping your washing machine in good shape doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits—like loading it right, cleaning it regularly, picking the right detergent, and using proper wash settings—can make a huge difference.

The payoff? Fewer repairs, lower bills, and a machine that keeps running smoothly for years.

Next time you do laundry, try just one or two of these tips. Over time, you’ll notice cleaner clothes, less stress on your machine, and maybe even a little extra cash in your pocket.