How to wash clothes in a washing machine

Washing machines are one of the most convenient and magical inventions of modern times. In go your dirty clothes and a little detergent, and without much effort, out come clean, fresh smelling clothes, ready to be dried or hung! If you’ve ever washed clothes by hand then you know, this is truly a time-saver.

Operating a washing machine can seem tricky at first, with all of the different settings and buttons, but using one properly is essential to the cleanliness and lifespan of your clothes as well as the efficiency of the washing machine. Read on for Haier’s simple guide on how to use a washing machine, plus some expert tips on how to care for your appliance and your clothes!

How to use a Washing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Separate your Laundry

The first step to washing clothes in a washing machine comes before we even get near the machine. Separate your laundry into different piles based on fabric type and colour. Be sure to check the care labels of each garment to make sure that they can be washed in a washing machine. Pay extra attention to delicate items and be sure to wash them on a gentle program inside a mesh bag or by hand.

Haier Tip: Sorting clothes into basic colour groups such as “light” and “dark” is probably enough. Also be sure to sort by fabric type - synthetic, heavy items like jeans, delicates etc.

Step 2: Choose the Right Wash Program

Choosing the right wash program for the type of clothes you are washing is super important to the cleanliness of your clothes. There are two speeds to consider when choosing a wash program. The speed at which the machine tumbles the clothes in the water, and the speed at which the machine spins to eliminate excess water after the wash program is completed. To choose the correct program, refer to the tags on your garments to make sure that you are choosing a program that will eliminate the dirt and grime without damaging the fibres. Some common options include: normal, permanent press, delicate, and quick programs.

Unsure about the optimal program? The state-of-the-art Haier washing machines come integrated with smart AI technology and the hOn app, allowing you to simply snap a photo of the washing labels to decode and ensure each garment receives the perfect wash cycle every time.

Haier Tip: Normal cycles are great for sturdy clothes like jeans, t-shirts, socks, towels and most sheets. Permanent press cycles are recommended for synthetic materials and help prevent wrinkles.

Step 3: Set the Water Temperature

Water temperature is another very important factor for laundry. Hot water is great for sanitising, killing bacteria, and eliminating germs, but it can also shrink your clothes, fade colours, set stains and even ruin certain fabrics. It also requires a lot more energy, so only use hot water on bedding, towels and other sturdy fabrics and heavily dirtied items. Warm water on the other hand is great for moderately dirty loads, dark colours and permanent press cycles. Cold water is the best choice for delicate fabrics and natural fibres like wool and linen.

Step 4: Add Detergent and Fabric Softener

Now that we’ve chosen the type of cycle and the temperature of the water, it’s time to add detergent and fabric softener! Most front-loading washing machines have a small drawer compartment where you can insert detergent and fabric softener.

Be sure to check the manual of your specific machine to know the exact locations for each type of washing liquid. The amount of detergent is determined by the size of the load.

Haier washing machines feature Smart Dosing which automatically calculates the correct amount of detergent based on the weight of the wash load, no more guessing! If you don’t have Smart Dosing on your washing machine you can gauge by the size of the load. A large load will require more detergent than a small load.

Haier Tip: For exceptionally fresh smelling laundry that awakens your senses, try Haier Laundry Perfume. This in-wash perfume can simply be added to the detergent compartment before running a wash cycle. The special formula is activated in the wash, leaving your clothes fragrant for up to five weeks!

Step 5: Load the Washing Machine

Now it’s time to place your clothes into the machine! Make sure not to overload the washing drum as this can affect the cleanliness of your clothes as well as cause damage to the appliance.

Here is a quick guide to different sized loads: 

• Small loads: 1/4 of the drum
• Medium loads: 1/2 of the drum
• Large loads: 3/4 of the drum

Step 6: Turn on the Washing Machine

Now everything is ready to go! Double check the settings of the machine and press start! You have never been closer to perfectly washed clothes!

Step 7: Clean your Washing Machine

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your washing machine ensures that it can effectively and efficiently clean your clothes for many years to come. To clean your washing machine, you can use specialised store-bought cleaners designed to eliminate limescale and soap scum or you can also use common household ingredients like vinegar, bleach and baking soda.

Tips for a Clean Washing Machine

• Leave the door open after washing to aid in drying out the wash drum, rubber gaskets and seals. This prevents mould and mildew from growing. Haier Smart Dual Spray keeps the door seal and door window clean by spraying water in the places where the most dirt and detergent build up linger.
• To keep your washing machine running efficiently, regular cleaning is essential. Start by running an empty hot water cycle with a specialised washing machine cleaner like the Haier 3in1 Washing machine cleaner. This will help remove detergent residue, dirt, and bacteria that can accumulate over time.
• Don’t forget to wipe down the door seals and detergent drawer, as they can trap moisture and mould. Regular maintenance ensures your appliance stays fresh, efficient, and extends its lifespan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Be sure to check all pockets for loose change, papers, and anything else that might damage your clothes or your washing machine.
• Don’t dump fabric softener directly onto clothes as it can stain them. Be sure to always place it in the designated container in the machine.
• Try not to leave wet clothes in the washing machine for too long. Let’s face it, we all forget our clothes in the wash sometimes! Fortunately for us, Haier has also designed a special feature to keep clothes fresh for up to 12 hours! The Ultra Fresh Air Feature on some models uses vapour to keep clothes wrinkle, mould and odour free for up to 12 hours.

A Simple and Necessary Appliance for Every Home

Getting the hang of using a washing machine can turn laundry day from a hassle into a breeze, especially with modern washing machines by Haier. The new smart AI features and integration with the hOn app allow you to control your laundry at the touch of a button, from anywhere. With these simple steps and expert tips, you are ready to tackle any laundry load! Fresh, beautiful clothes await!