How Long Can a Washing Machine Sit Unused – AkoTaq

Washing machines, like every other major home appliance we own, are essential for good household management, are high maintenance, and can be quite expensive.

So, when you are making that kind of investment into an asset, it is important that you are well-studied in taking good care of them for long sustenance and less frequent replacement. One of the measures of proper care involves storing away your washing machine for a considerable period of time.

Now, we all know that any machine sitting idle for a long time can cause it to obtain a few damages (albeit those damages almost always being salvageable). It is just textbook knowledge that, ensures a long life of any machine by regularly using and cleaning it. This will keep them running and functional.

However, in case you need to store away your washing machine for reasons, what happens to it then? Does it get permanently damaged? Or will it continue working just the same after you take it out for use again?

Read along the rest of this article to find out.

Does Long-Term Storage Damage your Washing Machine?

The answer to this question would be yes and no. That’s right people. Storing away your washing machine will be such a terrible thing to do to it and you can rest assured that you can use it again without any challenges after you take it out; however, this is important- unless you know the proper measurements to take for machine storage and follow them.

If you let your washing machine sit unused for a long time, then that’s fine, but, what environment are you letting it sit in is the question to understand.

If you store it in too hot temperatures, or too low temperatures, any water remaining in the lines will freeze and rip holes in them or, mold can develop inside the machines which would be agonizingly tough to clean.

Moreover, if you leave any bit of water inside the drums then rust can gradually form inside the water lines. Rust is an antagonist for metal and it can cause some irreversible damage to your washing machine.

So, now that we know that storing your washing machine without following the mandatory prerequisites is a big no-no.

That is why I have prepared for you a guide you can use for proper storage to ensure your machine’s longevity and good health.

Steps for a Proper Storage

Before you start your preparations, it is extremely important that you remember to disconnect the power to your machine. Unplug your machine and remove all the power cords.

A Thorough Cleaning

The first step is to make sure you are storing a clean washing machine. If there is detergent left in the detergent hoses or the basket, then this will be an ideal home for mold to grow.

Start by running an empty wash cycle consisting of vinegar mixed with hot water. Do not use any detergent this time. This will give your machine a thorough cleaning. Once that is done, take a cleaning wipe or some paper towels, or clean clothing to wipe the lid, the agitator, and all of the parts on the inside and the outside.

You should wipe the trays for detergent and fabric softeners as well.

Drain, Dry and Repeat

This part is essential for preventing damage to your washing machine. You need to make sure that your machine is completely free of any water so that mold or rust won’t have a chance to grow.

Start by turning off the supply of cold and hot water. You can find the valves on the pipes where your machine is connected. The next step is to disconnect all the supply hoses. I would best suggest that you have a bucket ready near you to collect all the remaining water dripping from the hoses. Lastly, disconnect and remove all the supply hoses and drainage hoses from the washing machine and hang them outside to air-dry.

All this being said, it is also a very good idea that you do this preparation well at least two days before you plan to store it away. This is because this time in between will allow your washing machine to dry off completely.

Tips to Remember Before Storing

1. Tip number one, use clean and breathable clothing to cover your machine. Leaving it uncovered will have layers of dust collected and using a non-breathable fabric will trap moisture on the machine.
2. Plan the area you want to store your washing machine, in such a way that there are several inches free around it. This will protect it from knocking against other objects and forming dents.
3. It is important that you leave the door slightly open for air to pass through and prevent the inside from becoming damp.

Closing Thoughts

Now you know how you can take good care of your washing machine, even if you are not planning to use it for a long time. I hope my article was helpful to you.

Best of luck!

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