Washing machines: Using your washing machine FAQs

Choose a washing machine with a good energy rating

How can I cut down on water use?

Since the late 1990s the amount of water used in wash load has decreased by a third. This change has been driven by the need to improve the energy efficiency of machines.

The lower the amount of water used in a wash, the lower the amount of energy needed for heating water. If you want to preserve water, a good place to start is to buy a machine that has an A energy efficiency rating. 

See our washing machines review to find energy- and water-efficient models.

My washing machine is noisy, is there anything I can do about it?

Yes. Spin drying is the noisiest part of the wash cycle, but there are things you can do to keep noise to a minimum.

Where and how you place the washing machine is important. It needs to be level in all directions – both front to back and left to right. A badly positioned machine can lead to imbalance which may increase over time, and noise will increase too.

The amount of clothes in the drum also matters. The recommended load is the optimum load for the machine, so the machine will be quietest when you follow the manufacturer’s suggestion. 

Small loads can be noisy because clothes have room to move and can make the load unbalanced. Large items, like bathrobes, make a noise when they thump around in the drum.

How can I get rid of musty smells?

Some people notice musty smells in the drum or on clothes if they wash continuously at 40°C or below. This is caused by the growth of bacteria film or fungus which is resistant to detergent. 

To solve the problem, clean the washing machine out by running a high-temperature (60°C) program once a month. The high temperature kills off bacteria and unwanted fungal growth.