Keep your washing machine running smoothly with these five simple tips to avoid costly repairs

A poorly maintained washing machine has to work harder and can incur higher running costs.

These simple tips will bring your device to life and save you expensive repairs.

A poorly maintained washing machine has to work harder and can incur more running costsCredit : Getty

DRIPPING WITH THE FILTER : Check the washing machine's filter to make sure that stuck lint, coins or odd socks aren't preventing it from working properly.

Make sure the machine is turned off. Next, place a flat pan directly under the filter opening.

Twist or release the handle to remove the filter. Let the water run into the bowl. Remove anything causing a blockage.

GERM-KILLER : Vinegar has hundreds of uses around the home and one of them is cleaning the drum and gasket of your washing machine, where bacteria like to hide.

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Put some white vinegar on a rag and wipe along the seam. Then pour 500ml of vinegar into the empty barrel. Do a hot wash at 90ºC or higher.

For more washing machine tips, visit the Tips section on AO.com.

HAIR OF TODAY, GONE OF TOMORROW : Human and pet hair can cause problems with washing machines. Help keep it clean with Vamoosh Pet Hair Remover, £4, or Vamoosh Washing Machine Cleaner, £3.50, from Wilko.

DIRTY DRAWERS : A quick cleaning of your detergent drawer will eliminate germs and bad smells. Pull out the drawer and submerge in a container of hot water and liquid detergent.

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Then clean the drawer groove with a damp cloth. You can use an old toothbrush for hard-to-reach corners.

Go back to the drawer and clean any mold or soap scum inside and out. Rinse and put back in the washing machine.

THE WHITE THING : Use the right amount of your regular detergent for the size of your clothes and the hardness of your water to avoid limescale build-up. For extra help, an anti-calc product such as Tesco Anti-Calc Gel, 1lt, £4.40 should do the trick.

• All prices on the page are correct at the time of printing. Promotions and offers subject to availability.

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