It’s easy to blame the machine when your washer starts making weird noises or leaves clothes soaking wet. But here’s a tough truth: some of the most common washer problems are caused by bad laundry habits. So before you call for repairs, let’s ask the real question—are your habits damaging your washer? And if they are, what can you do about it?
Overloading, using too much detergent, and ignoring maintenance can shorten your washer’s lifespan.
Early signs of damage include strange sounds, long cycles, or clothes not coming out clean.
Most habits are easy to fix—and your washer will thank you.
If your machine’s already struggling, Appliance GrandMasters offers fast washer repair in Greenville SC and Asheville NC.
Good washer care means cleaner clothes, fewer breakdowns, and lower water bills.
At Appliance GrandMasters, we’ve seen it all—shredded belts from overloaded drums, clogged pumps from forgotten coins, and burned-out motors from detergent buildup.
Most washer repairs we do in Greenville SC and Asheville NC could’ve been avoided with better habits. So let’s go over the most damaging ones and how to stop them before they kill your machine.
You might think you’re saving time by cramming in extra towels, but overloading is the fastest way to wreck your washer.
Why it’s bad:
Strains the drum and motor
Prevents proper cleaning and rinsing
Causes the washer to shake or go off-balance
Fix it:
Follow your washer’s load size guide
Wash bulky items like blankets separately
When in doubt, split the load
More soap = cleaner clothes, right? Nope. It’s the opposite.
What happens:
Residue builds up in the drum and hoses
Sensors get confused by excess suds
It leads to musty smells and mold
Pro tip: Use HE detergent if your washer requires it, and measure carefully. A little goes a long way.
Read why you’ve been using your powder laundry detergent wrong and how to fix it.
Life gets busy, but letting wet clothes sit for hours or days can do real damage.
Why it’s a problem:
Promotes mildew inside the drum
Can cause bad smells that are hard to remove
May damage rubber gaskets over time
Fix it: Set a timer or use your washer’s end-of-cycle signal to remind you to unload quickly.
Your washer cleans your clothes—but who cleans the washer?
If you don’t:
Mold and detergent buildup take over
Filters get clogged
Smells and performance issues follow
What to do:
Run a clean washer cycle monthly
Wipe door seals after each load
Clean filters and dispensers every few weeks
Learn more about Washing Machine Maintenance tips from Appliance GrandMasters
Loose change, hairpins, or even earbuds can wreak havoc on your washer.
What can happen:
Damage to the drum or glass door
Clogged pump filters
Dents and leaks
Tech tip: One customer in Greenville had a sock jammed in the drain pump—cost them $250 and 3 days without clean clothes.
Thumping, squealing, grinding—those sounds aren’t normal. Waiting it out won’t make them go away.
Possible causes:
Worn drum bearings
Broken suspension rods
Loose internal parts
Fix it: Call a certified tech before the damage gets worse.
Need Repairs? Book your washing machine repair service today!
If your washer shakes like it’s trying to walk out of your laundry room, it’s not properly leveled.
Why it matters:
Causes premature wear on the suspension
Makes your washer noisy and unstable
Could damage flooring
Solution: Adjust the washer’s legs so it sits flat and stable. Most have built-in levelers.
Habits can change—but if the damage is already done, don’t panic. At Appliance GrandMasters, we offer:
Factory-trained, certified washer repairs
Fast response times in Greenville SC and Asheville NC
Transparent pricing and real communication
Whether your washer is leaking, shaking, or won’t turn on, we’ll get it back on track—often in one visit.
Q: How do I know if I’m overloading my washer?
A: If the drum is packed tight or clothes come out half-washed, it’s overloaded. Leave room for clothes to move freely.
Q: Can too much detergent ruin my washer?
A: Yes. It causes buildup in the drum and hoses, leading to performance issues and mold.
Q: Why does my washer smell bad?
A: Likely mold or detergent residue. Run a cleaning cycle and wipe the seals regularly.
Q: What causes my washer to shake violently?
A: Unbalanced loads or a machine that’s not level. Check the feet and try smaller loads.
Q: How often should I clean my washing machine?
A: Ideally once a month. It helps prevent mold and keeps it running efficiently.
Still wondering, are your habits damaging your washer? Now you know the answer—and how to fix it.
A few small changes can prevent breakdowns, extend your washer’s life, and keep your laundry running smooth. And if your washer is already showing signs of trouble, don’t wait—schedule a visit with Appliance GrandMasters for fast, expert help in Greenville SC, Asheville NC, and nearby areas.
Get started today at appliancegm.com or give us a call!
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Formerly known as Mr. Rogers Appliances, we rebranded our appliance repair company to Appliance GrandMasters in June 2020. Since then, we have focused on developing our brand to be customer-oriented.
Fixing appliances has become a passion for us. We enjoy challenges and we are always studying to become the very best.
We accomplish swift and top-notch service by employing efficient and friendly customer service procedures that guarantee accurate answers and solutions.
Our approach involves the careful selection and comprehensive training for the necessary skills to fulfill our customers’ needs. Through these strategies, we strive to consistently provide exceptional service.