Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500250
06/24/03
Washer Care
Be careful in using laundry products not to spill
them on exterior of washer. Wipe up any spills promptly
with a damp soft cloth or paper towel. Most washer tops
are porcelain enamel which is quite resistant, but will
be damaged by acids in rust removers, and by long
exposure to other chemicals. Sides and front of washer
cabinets, and some tops, are synthetic enamel which will
be damaged quickly by ammonia, chlorine bleach,
abrasives, and solvents.
Do not spray pre-wash soil and stain removers onto
garments on top of washer, for they can corrode painted
and plastic parts such as the control panel, etc. Do not
treat with rust removers on top of washer; use sink, and
follow label instructions.
Turn off hot and cold water faucets going to tub
between washdays to prevent water pressure strain on
hoses. Check that hoses are not kinked or bent.
If away and no hot water has been used in house for 2
weeks or longer, open all hot water faucets and let them
run several minutes before using the washer or any other
electrical appliance connected to hot water. Do not smoke
or light any flame while faucets are running; hydrogen
gas which is flammable and explosive may build up in
water heater and hot water pipes if hot water is not used
for a long time.
If house is to be unheated in cold weather, drain and
winterize washer.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State
University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race,
color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability,
political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.
Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in
cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director,
MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational
purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08.
Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
strausc@msu.edu .