How Long Do Washers and Dryers Last? 10 Tips for Prolonging Their Life

Your washer and dryer work hard to keep your laundry fresh, your towels fluffy, and your clothes looking their best. But as essential as they are, these appliances can be a major investment — so it’s only natural to wonder how long they’ll last. What is the average lifespan of a washing machine? What about a dryer? And more importantly, is there anything you can do to extend their life? In this guide, we’ll break down typical washer and dryer lifespans and share 10 practical tips to help you get the most out of your machines.

Factors That Impact Dryer and Washing Machine Life Expectancy

How long do washers last? And how long do dryers last? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The life expectancy of these appliances depends more on how they’re used and cared for than their actual age. Below are the key factors that can influence how long your laundry appliances last.

Frequency of Use

One of the biggest contributors to wear and tear is how often you run your machines. In fact, H&R Block notes that “the life of a laundry machine is completely dependent on how often it’s run.” So, the more frequently you run your washer or dryer, the more stress you put on its components, and the shorter its life will be.

Overloading and Improper Use

How you use your machine is also a big factor in appliance lifespan. Improper use, like overloading, can make your washer or dryer wear out faster than expected. Too much laundry strains the washer’s motor, drum, and suspension. (A burnt smell coming from your dryer or washer could mean you’re overloading it.) Even using the wrong detergent for your washer can lead to residue buildup and damage.

Maintenance Habits

Properly maintaining your appliances is just as important as properly using them. To help keep your washer in great shape, regularly clean it and use the correct detergent. For the dryer, focus on tasks like cleaning out the lint trap and periodically checking the vents.

Environmental Factors

Where your appliances live also matters. Washers placed in damp basements or garages may be more prone to mold, mildew, or rust. Dryers with limited ventilation or airflow can overheat more easily.

Model Quality

Like any appliance, quality plays a big role in lifespan. A higher-end machine with durable components will typically last longer, so invest in a quality model from the start to avoid frequent repairs or replacements.

How to Make Your Washer and Dryer Last Longer: 10 Practical Tips

Now that we’ve covered the factors that impact laundry machine lifespan, let’s go over some tips to help extend them.

How to Make Your Washing Machine Last Longer

1. Don’t Overload the Washer: Heavy loads strain the motor and drum. Make sure to follow your washer’s capacity.
2. Use the Right Detergent & Amount: Too much detergent or the wrong type (like non-HE detergent in a high-efficiency washer) can lead to residue buildup that affects performance over time. Check the manufacturer’s manual for suggested laundry detergent types.
3. Regularly Clean Your Washing Machine: Run a cleaning cycle monthly with vinegar or washing machine cleaner to help prevent detergent residue and grime buildup.
4. Leave the Door Open After Use: After a wash cycle, leave the door or lid open to allow moisture to escape. This simple step can help prevent mold and mildew.
5. Balance the Machine: Keep your washer level to avoid excessive shaking and the wear associated with it.

How to Make Your Dryer Last Longer

1. Clean the Lint Filter After Every Load: Staying on top of lint removal can help your dryer run more efficiently and reduce the risk of overheating.
2. Check and Clean the Vent Ducts: Lint can also clog your dryer vent, leading to overheating and poor dryer performance. Inspect and clean the ducts regularly to help things run smoothly.
3. Don’t Overload the Dryer: Stuffing your dryer beyond its capacity puts extra strain on the motor and drum, leading to faster wear and tear. Stick to recommended load sizes.
4. Use the Right Drying Settings: High heat on every load can damage components over time. Match your dryer settings to the fabric type to help protect your clothes and machine.
5. Place Dryer in a Well-Ventilated Area: Proper ventilation and airflow around your dryer can help prevent overheating and promote longer appliance life.

Is It Time for a New Washer and Dryer?

Proper care and maintenance can help your laundry machines last a long time, but you’ll still need to replace them at some point. Watch for these signs you may need a new dryer or it’s time to replace your washer.

Signs You Should Get a New Washer:

• Excessive noise and vibrations
• Frequent leaks, especially from the bottom of your washing machine
• Your clothes don’t get clean
• Your washer has a musty or moldy smell that won’t go away
• The drum won’t spin or stops mid-cycle
• Repair costs add up to more than the price of a new machine

Signs You Should Get a New Dryer:

• It takes too long to dry your clothes
• Your dryer has a constant burning smell
• Your clothes come out overheated or still damp
• It makes excessively loud or unusual noises
• Repair costs are getting too expensive

If one of your laundry machines is down, the other one might not be far behind. Instead of replacing them individually, consider shopping for a matching washer and dryer set. You can often find better deals on sets than you would get purchasing each one separately, and you can guarantee matching style and compatible washer and dryer capacities.

Shop Rent-A-Center for Reliable Washers and Dryers

Is your washer or dryer on its last load? Turn to Rent-A-Center for reliable washers and dryers that will last. With our early purchase discounts and 6-month same-as-cash option, you can enjoy flexible payments and the option to own your own way.

Rent-to-own high-quality appliances from Rent-A-Center and take advantage of our great deals on washer-dryer bundles for durability and value! Shop online or visit us in-store today!