How to use a washing machine - step-by-step guide

Besides, baby delicates and clothes for sensitive skin require special cares, watch the video below to know more about how to care for them.

Step 3: Select the right settings

 

The settings you select will dictate how your clothes are washed and spun, and how your energy and water will be spent. So, avoid guessing which buttons to press. Get the best results from your washing machine by being familiar with all its special features and knowing which to choose.

Select the right temperature

Water temperature is critical in making your clothes last longer. Hot water is more effective in removing bacteria. But it can consume more energy, fade colour, set stains, and shrink garments. It’s best to use this for heavily soiled items like cleaning cloths and towels. For most items, use cold water to be gentler on your clothes, and the environment.

While most are worried that cold water isn’t efficient enough, this belief stems from what you were taught or ‘auto-pilot’ laundry habits. An analysis has shown that reducing washing temperature to 30 from 40°C can save over 25kg of carbon emissions per household, per year. Have confidence in your washer and rethink your habits. Chances are that outdated rules and old machines are the ones doing more harm than cold water.

Select the right programme

The washer cycle you select will determine how your clothes are protected. If you choose the wrong one, you might end up with faded shirts or damaged delicates. This is where checking the care label comes in. Make sure you follow what’s indicated to get the best results from your washing machine.

Washing machine programmes are designed to specifically care for certain fabrics, so match the cycle with your load. Does your load mostly consist of whites? Coloured? Or delicates?

Each cycle consists of two different speeds: The wash speed at which clothes are tumbled with water, and the spin speed at which items are spun to remove water. These two vary per cycle but as a rule of thumb, more agitation provides more cleaning power, and less agitation ensures more fabric care.

There will be different washing machine programmes per model or brand, but almost all will have the basic ones: Normal or cotton, permanent press or mixed, and delicates. Here’s a guide for Electrolux washing machines:

Newer washers nowadays offer more flexibility and features. Some Electrolux models have washing machine programmes specially designed for your different needs like Quick Cycles to suit your schedule, Woolmark Blue cycle for hand-wash-only woollens, and HygienicCare to remove up to 99.9% of allergens and germs.

Read more: All things you need to know about Electrolux washing machine.

Step 4: Add detergent, softeners, and boosters

In choosing the right detergent, know if your washer requires a high-efficiency type. If it does, look for products with the HE icon. They’re formulated to reduce soap suds so you use less water.

Loading detergent, fabric softener, or other cleaning agents differ based on which you’re using and your washer model. Best to refer to your machine manual on where and how to add them. You should also check your detergent box for the right amount to use. Here’s a general guide:

For a front load washing machine

Front-loaders usually have a dispenser where you can put in almost everything. It’s indicated where you can place liquid or powder detergents, pods, fabric softener, liquid bleach, and stain additives. Do not exceed the maximum fill line. Some models may have a pods compartment. If yours doesn’t, pop them into the drum before loading clothes.

Don’t sweat on the correct amount to use. Some Electrolux models have AutoDose technology which automatically and precisely releases the right dose based on the weight of your load. This prevents overdosing that can lead to clothes damage over time.

For a top load washing machine

If your top-loader has a dispenser, put in your powder or liquid detergent and fabric softener there. Some even have a separate compartment for liquid bleach. Don’t go over the maximum fill line. If yours doesn’t have a dispenser, pour them directly into the drum before loading your clothes. It’s also best to turn on your water so they’re thoroughly dissolved for the most efficient clean.

Step 5: Load your washer with clothes and turn on washer

Now you can finally load your clothes. Don’t overload the drum to give the items space to tumble, and for water to effectively circulate. As a rule of thumb, leave a hand width of space between the top of the drum and your load. It’s also best to distribute them loosely inside. Check your washer manual to know how much you can really fit in there.

To get the best results for each cycle, some models require you to indicate the load size. Here’s a guide:

• Small load: about ⅓ of the drum
• Medium load: about ½ of the drum
• Large load: about ¾ of the drum

To learn more about how to use washing machine effectively, please watch our how to use front load washing machine video series.

How to keep your washing machine clean and fresh

Your clothes shouldn’t only be the only ones clean. After washing, don’t forget to clean your washer to keep it running at its best for longer.

1. After the spin cycle, immediately take clothes out of the washer to prevent mould forming in your drum.
2. After every laundry session, leave your front-loader’s door ajar for air circulation.
3. Once a month, use a washing machine cleaner for a deeper clean. Place it in the detergent dispenser or drum, then run the hottest cycle or the special cleaning programme. Electrolux models have Tub Clean or Clean Washer cycles.

Remember these basics

While washing machines widely differ in terms of their handling and their special programmes, these are the basics you need to know to correctly operate any model. Ultimately, how you wash your clothes depends on the washer you choose. The right one should be more than capable to address all your needs and make laundry less of a chore. Discover the wide range of Electrolux washing machines here.