Washing Machine Safety

Washing machines are very convenient appliances. They allow us to do our laundry in our own homes and get our laundry clean without us having to do any of the hard work. You might use your washing machine several time a day or once a week, but regardless of how often you use it, there is something you should always keep in mind: safety.

Accidents with washing machines can and do happen. As with any appliance, safety precautions should be taken to insure that problems don't occur. If something does happen, it is important to know how to take care of it.

To keep your washing machine safe, there are a few things to keep in mind that can help prevent accidents from taking place.

• Check the hoses of the washing machine regularly. Some washing machine manufacturers recommend replacing the hoses on the machine about every five years. Make sure that these hoses are properly connected and are working fine, and that they are replaced if needed. Look for cracking, bulging, leaking, and any other abnormal characteristics. If you notice any problems, replace the hoses at once. Be certain that you buy high-quality hoses to better ensure the prevention of leaks.
• If your washing machine is operating in a way that isn't normal (leaking, making strange noises, etc.), have a professional repair the appliance as soon as possible. It is better to fix the issue before it becomes a real problem. Otherwise, you could end up with a flooded home or a malfunction of the washing machine that could lead to other damages or even electrocution.
• Keep an eye on children and pets when around the washing machine. Also make sure that the door on the washing machine (especially if it is front-loading) is kept closed. Children or pets could get inside the washer and cause damage or even hurt themselves. Teach children about washing machine safety to prevent accidents. If needed, keep the door to the laundry room securely closed or locked.
• Make sure that your washing machine is not plugged into an extension cord. It should be plugged into an outlet that is meant for a large appliance and can handle the energy load.
• Do not overload the machine when washing, and always operate it according to the instructions that came with the machine.

These tips should help you and your family to stay safe when using a washing machine. Remember that prevention is key when it comes to stopping accidents from happening.