How to Use Washing Machine for the First Time

Before Your First Wash: Setup Checklist

Before running your first load, make sure the machine is properly set up:

Remove shipping bolts: New machines ship with transit bolts at the back to protect the drum. Remove all of them before first use — check your manual for their location
Level the machine: Adjust the feet so the machine sits perfectly level on the floor
Connect water and drain hoses: Ensure both inlet hoses are connected and the drain hose is properly seated in the standpipe
Run an empty cleaning cycle first: Drop one Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner tablet in the drum and run a hot cycle to clean any manufacturing residue before washing clothes

Separate whites from colors to prevent color transfer
Separate delicates from heavy items like jeans and towels
Check all pockets — coins, tissues, and small items damage the machine and ruin clothes
Check care labels — items marked "dry clean only" or "hand wash only" should not go in the machine

Don't overload — clothes should fill the drum loosely, not be packed in tightly. Leave enough room to fit your hand on top of the load
For front loaders: load clothes loosely into the drum
For top loaders: distribute clothes evenly around the agitator

Use the right detergent in the right amount:

Use HE (high-efficiency) detergent if your machine is an HE model — regular detergent creates too many suds
For a mess-free option, use Dropps Laundry Detergent Pods — drop one directly in the drum before adding clothes, no measuring needed
If using liquid detergent, measure carefully with a silicone measuring cup — most people use 2–3x too much
Add detergent to the drawer (liquid/powder) or directly in the drum (pods)

Cotton / Normal: Everyday clothes, towels, bedding
Delicate / Gentle: Delicate fabrics, lingerie, knitwear
Quick wash: Lightly soiled items that need a fast refresh
Temperature: Cold for colors and delicates; warm for everyday cotton; hot for whites and heavily soiled items

Close the door firmly and press Start
Remove laundry as soon as the cycle ends — leaving wet clothes in the drum causes mildew and odor
Leave the door open after removing laundry to allow the drum to dry

When in doubt, use cold water — it's safe for almost everything and saves energy
Less detergent than you think is almost always the right amount
Clean the machine monthly to keep it performing well