How to Care for Your Dryer and Washing Machine: Tips from an Experienced Housekeeper

Regularly cleaning your dryer and washing machine is key to their efficiency and longevity. Here's how to properly care for these important appliances so they'll give you years of enjoyment and keep your clothes soft, clean, and smelling great.

Caring for your dryer

One of the key tasks is to clean the filter after each cycle and regularly check the condenser or heat exchanger, if present. Proper care of this household appliance helps it to operate at maximum capacity, prevents breakdowns and keeps clothes in perfect condition. Here's how to do it right:

Step one: cleaning the filter

The filter collects lint from your clothes during each drying cycle. If it is not cleaned regularly, it can become clogged, causing the motor to overheat and possibly break. The filter should be removed, rinsed with warm water and mild detergent, and then dried thoroughly before being replaced. This also helps remove any detergent or fabric softener residue that may build up and reduce the effectiveness of the filter.

Door and drum maintenance

The door and drum of the dryer are also parts that require regular cleaning to maintain hygiene and the efficiency of the appliance. The door can accumulate detergent residue and lint, creating a breeding ground for mold and unpleasant odors.

To get rid of the smell, I usually wipe the inside of the door and drum with a soft cloth dampened with a solution of hot water and white vinegar. The vinegar not only removes soap residue, but also neutralizes unpleasant odors.

Don't forget about the capacitor

The condensate container collects water extracted from clothes during drying and should be emptied regularly. Failure to do so can cause unpleasant odors in the dryer and, in the long run, can even cause it to break. The container is easily removed and the water can be poured into a sink or other draining area. Different brands of dryers (Whirlpool, Electrolux, Samsung, Bosch, Candy, Beko, LG) may have their own care instructions, so it is always a good idea to check the operating instructions.

How to Clean and Scent a Dryer

To keep your clothes soft and smelling nice, you can use special dryer deodorizers or natural products. For example, you can take a sponge, put a few drops of lavender or lemon essential oil on it, and put it in the drum. This will not only help remove unpleasant odors, but will also give your clothes a pleasant aroma.