Storing laundry equipment properly involves careful preparation to prevent damage, mold, and issues upon reinstallation. Whether you're moving or simply putting appliances away for an extended period, thorough cleaning, disconnection, and environmental control are key to preserving their condition and ensuring they operate effectively when needed again.
General Considerations for Storing Laundry Appliances
Effective storage begins with creating the right environment and ensuring the appliances themselves are ready.
- Cleanliness is Paramount: Before storage, both washers and dryers must be thoroughly cleaned to prevent mold, mildew, and odors.
- Climate Control: Ideally, store laundry equipment in a climate-controlled environment to protect delicate electronic components and hoses from extreme temperatures and humidity. Avoid damp basements, attics, or non-insulated garages if possible.
- Pest Prevention: Ensure the storage area is free from pests. Seal openings to deter rodents and insects that could damage wiring or hoses.
- Protection: Cover appliances with breathable moving blankets or sheets to protect them from dust and scratches. Avoid plastic covers for extended periods, as they can trap moisture.
Preparing Your Washing Machine for Storage
Proper preparation of your washing machine is crucial to prevent internal damage and unpleasant odors.
Cleaning and Draining
- Run a Cleaning Cycle: Begin by running an empty wash cycle using a specialized washer cleaner, a cup of bleach, or two cups of white vinegar. This helps sanitize the tub and remove detergent residue.
- Drain All Water:
- Disconnect the hot and cold water supply hoses from the wall and the back of the washer. Have a bucket ready to catch residual water.
- Lay the hoses flat to allow any remaining water to drain out.
- Locate the drain hose (usually at the back or side) and lower it into a bucket to empty any remaining water.
- Check the pump filter or coin trap, typically located at the bottom front of the machine. Open it carefully, drain any water, and remove lint or debris.
- Practical Insight: For front-loading washers, slightly tilt the machine forward after disconnecting hoses to encourage any trapped water to drain out.
- Thorough Drying: After draining, wipe down the drum, detergent dispenser, and all interior surfaces with a clean, dry cloth. Leave the washer door or lid ajar while in storage to allow for adequate air circulation and prevent mold or mildew growth.
Securing Components
- Shipping Bolts: For long-term storage or moving, re-install the original shipping bolts on the back of the washer. These bolts stabilize the drum and prevent damage during transit or while stationary. If you no longer have them, consult your appliance manual or an appliance store for replacements.
- Hoses and Cords: Coil the power cord, water inlet hoses, and drain hose neatly and secure them to the back of the machine with tape or bungee cords. Place any small parts, like the pump filter cap, in a plastic bag and tape it to the machine.
Preparing Your Dryer for Storage
Dryer preparation focuses on safety, cleanliness, and preventing internal damage.
Cleaning and Disconnecting
- Thorough Cleaning:
- Thoroughly clean out the lint trap. This is essential to prevent fire hazards and ensure proper airflow.
- Wipe down the exterior and interior drum with a mild all-purpose cleaner.
- Clean the vent hose to remove any accumulated lint. A vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment works well for this.
- Disconnecting Gas Dryers (Crucial Safety Step):
- Turn off the gas valve and disconnect the hose carefully. The gas shut-off valve is typically located behind the dryer on the gas supply line.
- Enlist the help of a professional if you are unsure how to turn off and remove gas hoses. Improper disconnection can be extremely dangerous.
- Disconnecting Electric Dryers: Simply unplug the dryer from the wall outlet.
- Airflow: Leave the door of the dryer ajar while in storage to allow for adequate air flow. This helps prevent musty odors and mildew inside the drum.
Choosing the Right Storage Location
The environment you choose significantly impacts the longevity of your appliances.
- Climate-Controlled Storage: This is the ideal option, protecting sensitive electronics and preventing rust or mold in humid conditions.
- Elevated Storage: If possible, store appliances on pallets or elevated platforms to keep them off the floor, protecting them from potential water damage or rising dampness.
- Accessible: Ensure you can easily access the appliances if you need to check on them or move them.
Essential Laundry Appliance Storage Checklist
| Step | Washing Machine | Dryer |
|---|---|---|
| Clean Interior | Run cleaning cycle, wipe drum and dispenser. | Wipe drum and interior surfaces. |
| Clean Lint Trap | N/A | Thoroughly clean out the lint trap. |
| Drain Water | Drain all water from hoses and pump filter. | N/A |
| Disconnect Hoses | Disconnect water inlet and drain hoses. | Disconnect gas hose (gas dryer) or vent hose. |
| Disconnect Power/Gas | Unplug power cord. | Unplug power cord (electric) or turn off gas valve (gas). |
| Professional Help | N/A | Enlist help of a professional if unsure how to turn off and remove gas hoses. |
| Secure Components | Re-install shipping bolts if moving or long-term. | N/A |
| Leave Door Ajar | Yes, to prevent mold and odors. | Yes, to allow for adequate air flow. |
| Protect from Elements | Cover with breathable material. | Cover with breathable material. |
Long-Term vs. Short-Term Storage
- Short-Term Storage (Less than 3 months): Basic cleaning, draining (washer), disconnecting, and leaving doors ajar should suffice.
- Long-Term Storage (More than 3 months): More extensive preparation is necessary. This includes all the steps outlined above, such as re-installing shipping bolts for washers and carefully disconnecting gas lines for dryers (possibly with professional assistance). Regular checks on the storage environment are also advisable.
By following these comprehensive steps, you can ensure your laundry equipment remains in excellent condition, ready for use whenever you need it again.
