Use your washing machine the right way and it washes better, smells fresh and lasts longer. Here are simple steps for each type, plus a monthly cleaning routine.
Updated 14 November 2026
First use
Remove packing and, on a front loader, the transit bolts at the back. Level the machine, connect the inlet hose to a tap and place the drain hose in a drain. Run one empty wash to rinse the drum.
How to use an automatic washing machine
Sort clothes by colour and fabric.
Load without pressing them down; leave space at the top.
Add detergent to the drawer or tub (low-foam detergent for front loaders).
Choose the programme (Normal, Quick, Heavy, Delicate or Hijab).
Press Start. The machine fills, washes, rinses and spins by itself.
On Dawlance EZ Wash models a single button runs the default programme.
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How to use a twin tub or single tub
Fill the wash tub with water to the mark.
Add detergent and dissolve it.
Add clothes and set the wash timer.
Drain, refill and rinse.
Twin tub: move clothes to the spin tub, put the safety cover on, close the lid and spin for 3 to 5 minutes.
You can reuse wash water: wash whites first, then colours, then darks.
How much detergent?
Follow the pack. Too much detergent leaves residue and foam, and can cause leaks and smell. Hard water needs a little more; soft water less.
How to clean a washing machine
Lint filter (jali): clean after every few washes.
Inlet filter: check monthly.
Front loader drain filter and door rubber: wipe monthly.
Detergent drawer: pull out and rinse.
Drum: run Tub Clean or a hot empty cycle monthly. Many models, such as the Haier HWM150-826S6, have a Tub Clean programme.
How to clean a washing machine filter in a top loader?
Lift out the lint filter on the side of the drum, rinse it under a tap and clip it back. Do this every few washes.
Can I wash shoes in a washing machine?
Canvas and sports shoes can go in a bag on a gentle, cold cycle with towels to balance. Do not wash leather shoes.
Which detergent drawer compartment is for what?
Usually: I or 1 for pre-wash, II or 2 for main wash, and the flower symbol for fabric softener.
How do I clean a washing machine with vinegar?
Run an empty hot or Tub Clean cycle with about two cups of white vinegar in the drum. Then wipe the lid, seal and drawer.
How do I rinse clothes in a washing machine?
On an automatic choose Rinse and Spin. On a twin tub, drain the soapy water, refill with clean water and run the wash timer for a few minutes.
How do I set the time on an automatic washing machine?
Use Delay Start or Timer to choose when it finishes. Wash time is set by the program you pick.
How do I use neel in an automatic washing machine?
Dissolve the neel (blue) in water first and add it in the final rinse, or use the softener compartment. Never pour it straight onto clothes.
How do I deep clean a washing machine?
Clean the lint filter, inlet filter and drawer, then run Tub Clean or a hot empty cycle. Wipe the door seal on front loaders.
Can I wash a comforter in a washing machine?
Yes, if it fits loosely. Use the Bedding program and a 12 kg or bigger machine for a double comforter.
How do I drain water from a Haier washing machine?
On a Haier automatic, choose Spin only or press Drain if the panel has it, and the pump empties the tub. On Haier twin tubs and single tubs, turn the drain knob to drain and lower the drain hose.
How do I clean a Haier automatic washing machine?
Use the Tub Clean program found on many Haier top loaders, or run an empty hot cycle with a washing machine cleaner. Wipe the lid, clean the lint filter and leave the lid open to dry.
Where do I put liquid detergent in a washing machine?
In front loaders, pour it into the main wash compartment of the drawer, often marked II. In top loaders, pour it into the detergent box or straight into the water before adding clothes.
Is liquid or powder detergent better for a washing machine?
Both work. Liquid dissolves better in cold water and leaves no white marks. Powder is cheaper and good for very dirty clothes. Use low-foam detergent in front loaders.
Will bleach damage my washing machine?
A small amount of bleach, diluted and used now and then, will not harm most machines. Never mix it with vinegar or other cleaners, and do not use it often on rubber seals.
How long does a washing machine take to wash clothes?
A twin tub wash takes about 10 to 15 minutes plus a few minutes of spin. A top load automatic takes about 40 to 60 minutes on a normal program, and a front loader can take 1 to 2 hours.
