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Washing Machine Tip: Put It in the Tray Before Starting to Save Money
If you’re looking for ways to reduce your utility bills, protect your appliances, and ensure your washing machine runs more efficiently, there’s a simple trick that could help. The solution? Putting your washing machine in the tray before starting it. This simple habit may not only protect your floors but could also save you money in the long run. Curious to know how? Let’s dive in!
What Does “Put the Washing Machine in the Tray” Mean?
At first glance, this might sound like a confusing suggestion. After all, a washing machine is typically stationary, set in place when installed. However, the key here isn’t about physically moving the machine, but rather placing something under it before you start using it—a drip tray.
A drip tray is a shallow, flat container placed under your washing machine to catch any water that might leak during the wash cycle. While most washing machines are designed to be leak-resistant, sometimes small leaks or overflows happen, especially if the machine is older, the hoses are worn, or there are issues with water pressure. By placing a tray under your washing machine, you protect your floors and also give yourself a heads-up if something goes wrong.
But how does this actually save you money? Let’s take a closer look.
1. Prevents Water Damage
Water damage can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Small leaks that go unnoticed over time can cause significant damage to floors, walls, and even furniture. When water leaks from the washing machine, it often isn’t immediately noticeable—especially if it’s a slow, small leak. The problem may go undetected until the damage becomes severe, requiring expensive repairs and potentially even replacing flooring or parts of your home.
By placing your washing machine on a tray, you’ll quickly notice any leaks. This allows you to fix the problem before it gets out of hand. Regularly catching leaks early helps avoid the cost of expensive repairs or water damage claims.
2. Helps Prevent Mold and Mildew Growth
Washing machines are already prone to mold and mildew buildup due to the moisture and warmth in the appliance. But when leaks occur, the extra moisture can seep into the flooring, which is a prime breeding ground for mold and mildew. This not only creates an unpleasant smell but can also lead to significant damage to your floors and air quality.
A tray under the washing machine helps contain any leakage, preventing water from pooling and promoting mold growth. By preventing mold and mildew, you’re saving money on costly mold removal treatments, and you’ll be keeping your home healthier by avoiding potential allergens or health problems associated with mold exposure.
3. Protects the Floor and Appliance
The floor beneath your washing machine can take a lot of abuse. Water leaks, detergent spills, and soap residue can all damage the floor over time, causing stains, discoloration, or warping. Hardwood floors and vinyl are particularly vulnerable to moisture, which can cause warping or permanent stains.
A tray underneath the washing machine acts as a protective barrier between the machine and the floor, ensuring that no water or soap gets spilled directly onto the surface. This will extend the lifespan of your floors and protect them from costly repairs or replacements.
Additionally, the tray can help keep the machine itself from accumulating grime or debris that might cause the appliance to wear out faster. Ensuring the area under the machine stays clean can reduce the need for repairs, leading to savings on maintenance and prolonging the life of your appliance.
