Why You Shouldn't Leave The Washing Machine Door Open

Experts have identified a common mistake.

Proper care of household appliances can sometimes involve nuances that many people aren’t even aware of. Most of us are used to leaving the washing machine door wide open immediately after the cycle ends, but experts warn that keeping it open all the time is a serious mistake.

This was discussed in TheCoolist.

Why ventilation is necessary and where the line is drawn

Home appliance manufacturers, including giants such as Bosch, Electrolux, and the Japanese brand Kao, unanimously recommend letting the drum air out after use. If you close the door tightly right away, water will remain inside, creating the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow and for musty odors to develop.

However, there’s a huge difference between “airing out after a wash” and “leaving it open 24/7.” Leaving the door wide open around the clock does more harm than good, gradually causing the expensive appliance to break down.

Why a constantly open door is dangerous

Numerous studies show that keeping the door open continuously has a negative impact on both hygiene and the machine’s mechanical components:

Dust accumulation: In poorly ventilated bathrooms, an open drum quickly collects microparticles of dirt and dust from the air.

Stress on the hinges: The gaskets and hinges are designed to hold the door closed; constant tension from the weight of the load causes the fasteners to deform.

Safety risks: An open washing machine attracts children and pets, who may accidentally injure themselves while trying to climb inside.

The Golden Mean: How to Properly Care for Your Appliances

To protect your washing machine from moisture and wear and tear, simply follow these guidelines. After the wash cycle ends, leave the door open for just 4–6 hours—this is more than enough time for any remaining moisture to evaporate completely.

After that, you can close the door. Be sure to wipe down the rubber gasket—where water tends to accumulate—with a soft cloth, and keep the detergent dispenser slightly ajar. In addition, experts recommend running a preventive cycle at 90°C once a month to thoroughly clean the internal systems of bacteria.

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