Remodeling, Repair and Maintenance

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 information is for educational purposes and is reprinted from the MSU Extension. This information is public property upon publication and has been printed with credit to MSU Extension.