How long does a modern washing machine last? And how can we make it last longer?

There are some appliances it's worth spending a bit more on to get a high-quality model that will "last a long time". And the washing machine is one of these. But how long exactly is "a long time" these days?

If you've talked to repair technicians recently, you might have heard them say that, nowadays, household appliances are no longer as durable as they once used to be. Appliances purchased by our parents might have remained in faithful service for decades, but these days, this is (apparently) not the case. Let's find out more:

The lifespan of a modern washing machine

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Experts peg the average lifespan of a washing machine at around 11-13 years. However, this is an estimate that is very use-dependant:

• Frequent use: if, for example, you do laundry only twice a week, the machine could last a few years longer than the above estimate; but if you do washing every day, you will have to scale down your expectations.
• The type of laundry you wash most often: if you wash regular clothes, in lighter loads, your washing machine last longer. But if you often wash household linen, or work and sports clothes that get very dirty, your machine will wear out much quicker.

A second factor that affects the life of the washing machine is where it is positioned:

• Placed in a basement, an outdoor space (covered balconies, verandas), or non-air-conditioned attics and similar, will reduce the lifespan of the machine;
• In home environments with a controlled climate and better insulation, the machine will last for longer.

How to properly maintain your washing machine to make it last longer

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The third factor affecting the longevity of your washing machine is related to routine maintenance.

Here are some "rules" that should never be forgotten:

• Never overload the drum: 80% full is the maximum load you should put on. Load in the washing, then put your hand into the drum, at the top. With an open, flat palm, rotate you thumb downwards. If it touches the washing, do not load any more laundry into the machine;
• Don't over-dose with detergents and fabric softeners: using more doesn't mean the washing will come out cleaner, quite the contrary. The quantity of water use by the programs does not change, and therefore any extra soap from an overdose will not be rinsed away. And rinsing again to remove this soapy excess will put added wear and tear on you clothes and the machine;
• Clean the filter, seals and detergent dispenser tray regularly: Do this once a month to clean away any soap residue, hair and other dirt and grime;
• Once a month, do an empty wash cycle using anti-limescale products (or vinegar) to keep the washing machine limescale-free.

Following this guidance, your washing machine work better and last longer. And any added expense will be worth it in the end!