We all want our washing machines, dishwashers, and other appliances to last forever—after all, they’re pretty expensive. But it’s often the small, unconscious habits in our daily lives that are quietly and secretly destroying them.

Here are the three most common mistakes that are ruining home appliances, and how to make them better instead.

The “Always on Gentle Cycle” Dilemma (Washing Machine)
Mistake: Out of concern for their clothes or to save energy, many people only wash at 30°C or 40°C on a short or gentle cycle.

The result: At low temperatures, grease, detergent residue, and skin flakes don’t dissolve properly. A slimy biofilm forms inside the washing machine. This not only leads to smelly laundry, but also attacks hoses and seals over time.

Solution: Wash laundry (e.g. bed linen or towels) at least once a month at 60°C or 90°C using powder detergent. The powder contains bleach, which, in combination with the heat, kills bacteria and mould.

Another tip: After each wash, leave the door and detergent dispenser slightly ajar so that the washing machine can dry out.

The “pre-rinse misconception” (dishwasher)
Mistake: Dishes and pots are rinsed thoroughly under running water before being put in the dishwasher.

Result: This is not only a huge waste of water, but actually damages the washing machine and the dishes. Modern detergents contain enzymes that are programmed to bind dirt and grease particles. If there is no dirt present, aggressive cleaning agents can damage hoses, baskets and even the glaze on the dishes (glass corrosion). In addition, sensors in modern dishwashers “think” that the dishes are already clean and shorten the cycle – which often leads to unhygienic conditions.

Solution: Simply scrape large food residues into the basket with a knife or fork. The dishwasher will take care of the rest.

Another tip: Don’t forget to clean the filter in the bottom regularly and top up with special anti-limescale salt – even if you use “all-in-one” tablets!

“Increasing air shortage” (refrigerator)
Mistake: The refrigerator is overfilled to the brim, so that the food touches the back wall, or the appliance is squeezed into too small a space without paying attention to ventilation.

Consequence: Cold spots develop if the air inside cannot circulate. Food freezes to the back wall, thaws, and clogs the small condensation drain. Furthermore, if the refrigerator is too close to a wall or radiator, it cannot dissipate heat to the back. The compressor has to run continuously, which drastically shortens the life of the appliance and causes your electricity bill to skyrocket.

To avoid this: Always leave some space between the food and never block the back wall. When installing the refrigerator, make sure that the ventilation spaces specified by the manufacturer are respected (usually at least 5 cm from the wall).

Another tip: Once a year, vacuum the layer of dust from the cooling coils (metal mesh) on the back of the appliance. The dust acts as insulation and forces the motor to work harder.

In short: A quick checklist for a long appliance life

Appliance | Common problem | The right solution

Washing machine: Use only short/cold cycles once a month $60 or $90 with powder

Dishwasher: Pre-wash dishes thoroughly; scrape off only large food residue, tablets need dirt

Refrigerator: Overloaded and blocked vents; keep back wall clean, dust back