How to get the most out of a washing machine

Short answer: A three quarters full drum, the right dose and a programme that suits the laundry. A full machine and too much detergent are the two most common mistakes.

Three quarters full

The laundry has to be able to move for the water to get through. A full drum washes worse than a three quarters full one. See washing and care.

Dose by water hardness

Too little does not remove the grease, too much is not rinsed out. The dosage on the pack takes the hardness into account.

Choose the short programme

For ordinarily soiled laundry a short programme is enough. Long programmes wear more without making the laundry cleaner. See bamboo underwear for men.

Clean the machine

An empty wash at 90 degrees a few times a year removes detergent residue and biofilm. See bamboo towels.

Leave the door open

After washing, an open door keeps the machine dry and free of odour. See bamboo bedding.

Frequently asked questions

How full can the machine be?

About three quarters. The laundry has to be able to move to get clean.

Is a long programme better?

Rarely. For ordinarily soiled laundry it wears more without making it cleaner.

How often should the machine be cleaned?

A few times a year with an empty wash at 90 degrees.