• take heed in using laundry products not to spill them on the exterior of washers. Wipe up any spills promptly w/ 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 & by long exposure to other chemicals. Sides & front of washer cabinets & some tops are synthetic enamel which will be damaged quickly by ammonia, chlorine bleach, abrasives & solvents.
  
  
  
• Do not treat w/ rust removers on top of washer; use sink & follow label instructions.
  
  
  
• turn off hot & 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 & no hot water has been used in the house for 2 weeks or longer, open all hot water faucets & 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 & explosive may build up in water heater & hot water pipes if hot water is not used for a long time.
  
  
  
• if house is to be unheated in cold weather, drain & winterize washer.

Plumbing Tools & Materials • damp soft cloth or paper towel

Difficulty: Beginner

Advice by Friendly Plumber ® • Do not spray pre-wash soil & stain removers onto garments on top of washers for they can corrode painted & plastic parts such as the control panel, etc.

Related Plumbing Article • how to clean a washing machine