Washing machines require some basic preparation before going into storage.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to store a washing machine without damaging your appliance, and how to ensure it comes out of storage in the same condition as it went in.
- Find a storage unit.
- Don’t use your machine for as long as possible.
- Give it a thorough clean.
- Make sure it is bone dry.
- Disconnect machine.
- Prepare for pick up.
1. Find a Storage Unit
Before you begin to prepare your washing machine for storage, you’ll need to find a reliable storage unit to keep it in.
We’d recommend picking an experienced storage unit with great reviews, so you can rest assured that your washing machine is taken care of. At Falconer Removals, we have 131 years of experience – reflected in our 5* reviews – and we know that our tried and tested moving techniques will prevent damage to your appliance that could otherwise happen in transit.
To find out what else to look for in a storage unit, check out our guide.
2. Stop Washing
Don’t use your washing machine for as long as possible before it’s taken into storage. We’d recommend stopping use at least a week before.
See if you can arrange to do your washes at a friends house, or at a local laundrette, in the period leading up to your storage collection date.
It is best not to use your machine before collection as you need to give the appliance time to dry out.
3. Thorough Clean
Most importantly, you’ll need to make sure your washing machine is clean.
Lots of newer models will have a designated washer cleaning cycle which you can use. However, if you haven’t got this, you can give it a good clean yourself.
There are some great products that you can get in most local supermarkets or convenience shops to do this, like Dr Beckmann’s Service-It Deep Clean Washing Machine Cleaner and Ecozone’s Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets if you’re after something more eco.
You can also clean your washing machine with products that you already have around the house – check out this Which? video for more on that, and the best technique to use when cleaning your appliance.
4. Bone Dry
Next, make sure your machine is dry – preferably bone dry.
This includes wiping up excess water in and around the machine and draining water from the drain hose (or drain pump), usually located at the front of the machine. We’d recommend reading your washing machine manual before you do this, as it will guide you through the steps specific to your appliance.
5. Disconnect Machine
Next you’ll need to disconnect your washing machine. As before, you’ll want to refer to your manual before you do this as the instructions will differ for each. If you need some extra support, wikiHow have a great general guide on how to disconnect a washing machine.
Don’t panic if you don’t want to do this bit, removal companies will often do this for you. At Falconers, we will disconnect and reassemble your washing machine with confidence – but if you want to do it yourself, that is fine too.
6. Prepare for Pick Up
Our final tip is make sure that your removals team have access. Most companies will need enough access for a van to load. This could include giving your movers keys, access codes, or other information that will allow them to access your washing machine.
Your machine is now ready to go into storage, so the rest is down to us!
At Falconer Removals, if you’re storing multiple appliances, we’ll make sure that they are kept in one storage container to prevent damage to other, delicate furniture.
To learn more about our storage facilities, or our removals service, please contact us today.
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Written by Holly Charman, for Falconer Removals.
