kitchen appliances

Water Filters in Refrigerators: Benefits and Maintenance Tips

Posted on December 31, 2024December 31, 2024Posted in Appliances 101Tagged Benefits, drinking water, Filtered Water, filters, kitchen, kitchen appliances, maintenance, Refrigerators, water, Water FiltersNo Comments

When it comes to maintaining a healthy home, clean drinking water is essential. Many modern refrigerators come equipped with built-in water filters, offering a convenient and effective way to ensure your drinking water is safe and fresh. Understanding the benefits of these water filters and learning how to maintain them properly can help you make the most out of this feature in your refrigerator. Benefits of Water Filters in Refrigerators 1. Cleaner and Safer Water Refrigerator water filters are designed to remove harmful contaminants such as chlorine, lead, mercury, and pesticides from your tap water. This ensures that the water you and your family drink is free from dangerous substances that could impact your health. 2. Improved Taste and Odor Tap water can sometimes have an unpleasant taste or odor due to the presence of chlorine and other chemicals. Water filters help to eliminate these, giving you fresh-tasting, clean-smelling water for drinking and ice-making. 3. Convenient Access to Filtered Water Instead of buying bottled water or using a separate filtering system, refrigerator water filters offer immediate access to filtered water at the push of a button. This can save both time and money while reducing plastic waste from bottled water. 4. Filtered Ice Not only does a refrigerator water filter improve the quality of your drinking water, but it also enhances the quality of the ice cubes. Since the same filtered water is used for the ice maker, you can enjoy cleaner, better-tasting ice in your drinks. Maintenance Tips for Refrigerator Water Filters To keep your refrigerator’s water filter performing at its best, regular maintenance is key. Here are some tips to help you maintain your filter: 1. Follow Manufacturer’s Recommendations Each refrigerator model will have specific guidelines for maintaining and replacing the water filter. Always consult your refrigerator’s manual to understand how often the filter needs to be changed and the type of filter required. 2. Replace Filters Every 6 Months On average, refrigerator water filters should be replaced every six months. However, this may vary depending on how much water your household uses and the quality of the water in your area. Some refrigerators have indicators to let you know when it’s time to replace the filter. 3. Flush the Filter After Installation After installing a new filter, it’s important to flush it by dispensing water for a few minutes. This helps remove any air and loose carbon particles that may have accumulated during shipping. 4. Keep the Water Dispenser and Ice Maker Clean Even with a water filter, the water dispenser and ice maker can still harbor bacteria if not cleaned regularly. Wipe down the water dispenser nozzle and ice bin to prevent any buildup of residue or mold. 5. Monitor Water Quality If you notice a decline in the taste or quality of the water or ice, this may be a sign that the filter needs replacing sooner than expected. Be sure to stay vigilant and address any changes in water quality immediately. Water filters in refrigerators are a valuable feature that ensures clean, safe, and great-tasting water and ice are always within reach. By following simple maintenance tips like regular filter replacement and proper cleaning, you can enjoy the benefits of filtered water while extending the life of your refrigerator. Staying on top of your refrigerator’s water filter maintenance helps protect your family’s health and saves you money in the long run!

Energy-Saving Tips for Range Cooking

Posted on December 28, 2024December 30, 2024Posted in Appliances 101Tagged cooking, cooking at home, Energy-Saving Tips, food, kitchen, kitchen appliances, Lids On, Preheat, range, Right-Sized BurnerNo Comments

Cooking at home is not only a fulfilling experience but also a great way to ensure you’re eating nutritious meals. However, kitchen appliances, particularly ranges, can consume a significant amount of energy. With rising energy costs and an increased focus on sustainability, it’s essential to explore ways to reduce energy usage without compromising the quality of your meals. In this blog post, we’ll share practical energy-saving tips for range cooking, helping you make the most of your kitchen while keeping your energy bills in check. Use the Right-Sized Burner Utilize Residual Heat Cook with Lids On Preheat Only When Necessary Use the Oven Light Instead of Opening the Door Batch Cooking and Multitasking Use Convection Mode Maintain Your Range and Oven Invest in Energy-Efficient Cookware Embrace Small Appliances Cooking at home is an excellent way to ensure healthy and delicious meals, but it doesn’t have to come at the cost of high energy bills. By implementing these energy-saving tips for range cooking, you can reduce your kitchen’s energy consumption, save money, and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Whether it’s using the right-sized burner, taking advantage of residual heat, or investing in energy-efficient cookware, these simple changes can make a big difference. Happy cooking!

Upgrading Your Range: When and Why to Make the Switch

Posted on December 26, 2024December 30, 2024Posted in Appliances 101Tagged cooking, cooking at home, cosmo appliances, dual range, electric range, gas range, kitchen, kitchen appliances, modern kitchen, rangeNo Comments

Whether you’re an avid home cook or someone who enjoys the occasional meal prep, your kitchen’s range is at the heart of many culinary activities. But like any appliance, ranges have a lifespan, and at some point, you might start noticing signs that it’s time for an upgrade. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key reasons for upgrading your range and when it’s the right time to make the switch. 1. Your Current Range is Inefficient One of the most common signs that it’s time to upgrade is inefficiency. If you notice your meals are taking longer to cook or aren’t cooking evenly, your range may not be distributing heat properly. This can be particularly frustrating for precise recipes that require accurate temperatures. Upgrading to a more energy-efficient model not only improves cooking performance but also reduces your energy bills in the long run. Why Upgrade?Modern ranges, especially those with convection settings, circulate heat more evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked dishes every time. Energy Star-rated ranges use less electricity or gas, which is a win for both your wallet and the environment. 2. You’re Cooking More at Home With the growing trend of cooking at home for health and budget reasons, many people find themselves using their range more frequently. If your current range isn’t up to the task of daily use, it might be time for an upgrade. Higher-end ranges can handle the extra workload and come with advanced features like multiple burners, quick preheat, and built-in temperature probes. Why Upgrade?Upgrading to a professional-style range can make home cooking more efficient and enjoyable. Features such as double ovens, larger burners, and integrated griddles give you the flexibility to experiment with more complex recipes or cook for a crowd. 3. Outdated Technology Technology in the kitchen has come a long way. Older ranges may lack modern conveniences such as smart controls, self-cleaning options, or induction cooking capabilities. If you’re someone who enjoys the latest tech and wants more control over your cooking process, it might be time to consider upgrading. Why Upgrade?Newer models offer smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to monitor and control your oven from your smartphone. Induction ranges provide precise temperature control and faster cooking times, making them ideal for tech-savvy home cooks. 4. Frequent Repairs If you find yourself constantly calling the repair technician, you might be spending more money on repairs than your range is worth. While occasional repairs are normal, frequent breakdowns are a sign that your range is nearing the end of its life. Why Upgrade?A new range may seem like a big investment, but if you’re spending hundreds of dollars annually on repairs, an upgrade will pay for itself over time. Plus, newer models come with warranties and are often built to last longer than older ranges. 5. Aesthetic and Functional Kitchen Upgrade If you’re in the process of remodeling your kitchen, upgrading your range can be the perfect finishing touch. Modern ranges come in various styles, from sleek stainless steel to retro designs that match any kitchen aesthetic. Moreover, upgrading to a range with more advanced features can increase the functionality of your space. Why Upgrade?A new range can become the centerpiece of your remodeled kitchen. It enhances both the form and function of the space, making it not only more enjoyable to cook in but also adding value to your home if you ever decide to sell. 6. You Want More Cooking Versatility Are you a budding chef looking to explore new cooking techniques? Modern ranges come with features like convection cooking, air fry modes, and griddles built right into the cooktop. These versatile options can open up a world of new cooking possibilities that your old range simply can’t provide. Why Upgrade?Convection cooking can bake faster and more evenly, while air-fry settings offer a healthier way to achieve crispy results. Having these options right at your fingertips can inspire creativity in the kitchen, making cooking more fun and rewarding. When to Make the Switch If your range shows signs of inefficiency, needs constant repairs, or simply doesn’t fit your cooking needs anymore, it’s time to consider upgrading. Here are a few tips on when to make the switch: Upgrading your range can transform your cooking experience. Whether you’re looking for better performance, smart features, or just a new aesthetic to match your kitchen, making the switch can make a big difference. Keep an eye out for the signs mentioned above, and when the time comes, choose a range that fits both your cooking style and your kitchen’s needs.

The Role of Range Hoods in Air Quality: Keeping Your Kitchen Healthy

Posted on December 22, 2024December 23, 2024Posted in Appliances 101Tagged Air, allergies, Cleaning, cooking at home, cosmo appliances, kitchen, kitchen appliances, odors, Range Hoods, respiratory issuesNo Comments

When we think about maintaining a healthy home, the kitchen is often at the top of the list. It’s the heart of the home, where meals are prepared, conversations flow, and delicious aromas fill the air. However, the kitchen can also be a source of pollutants, especially from cooking activities. Whether you’re sautéing vegetables, grilling meat, or simmering soup, your cooking can release smoke, steam, and airborne particles into the air. This is where range hoods play a crucial role. Why Range Hoods Are Essential for Kitchen Air Quality A range hood, often mounted above the stove or cooktop, helps to improve air quality by removing airborne contaminants. These contaminants include grease particles, smoke, odors, and excess moisture. Without a range hood, these substances can linger in your kitchen, eventually spreading to other areas of your home. Over time, this can lead to poor indoor air quality, which can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and unpleasant odors. How Range Hoods Work Range hoods come equipped with fans and filters that trap and remove airborne particles. Depending on the type of hood, they may either vent the air outside (ducted) or recirculate filtered air back into the kitchen (ductless). Here’s how each type works: The Health Benefits of Using a Range Hood Maintaining Your Range Hood for Maximum Efficiency To keep your range hood working effectively, regular maintenance is essential: Choosing the Right Range Hood for Your Kitchen When selecting a range hood, consider factors like your kitchen size, the type of stove you have, and the amount of cooking you typically do. For heavy cooking, a high-powered, ducted range hood will provide superior air quality and ventilation. If your kitchen doesn’t allow for ducting, a ductless option can still provide significant benefits, especially if equipped with a high-quality filter. In addition to adding a sleek, modern touch to your kitchen, range hoods are a key component in maintaining good indoor air quality. Whether you’re cooking up a storm or just preparing a simple meal, using a range hood ensures that you’re removing harmful pollutants and keeping your home environment healthy. Regular maintenance will ensure your range hood continues to function at its best, giving you peace of mind that your kitchen remains a safe and pleasant space for your family to enjoy.

Tips for Efficiently Using Your Kitchen Timer and Thermometer: Precision for Perfect Cooking

Posted on December 14, 2024December 16, 2024Posted in CookingTagged cooking at home, food, kitchen, kitchen appliancesNo Comments

A kitchen timer and a thermometer are two of the most essential tools for any home cook or baker. They help ensure that your meals are cooked to perfection by providing precise control over cooking times and temperatures. However, using these tools efficiently can make all the difference between a deliciously moist roast and an overcooked one, or perfectly baked cookies versus burnt edges. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your kitchen timer and thermometer for flawless results in the kitchen. Know When to Use a Timer and When to Use a Thermometer While both the timer and thermometer help with cooking accuracy, they serve different purposes, and knowing when to rely on each one is key. Pro Tip: For dishes like roasts, cakes, or custards, use both tools: the timer as a general guide and the thermometer to ensure the dish reaches the perfect internal temperature. Set Multiple Timers for Different Tasks When cooking multiple dishes at once, it’s easy to lose track of time and overcook or undercook an item. Using multiple timers can help you keep everything on track, ensuring all components of your meal are ready at the same time. Pro Tip: To prevent forgetting a timer, place a sticky note near the stove or oven with labels that remind you which timer belongs to which dish. Place the Thermometer Properly for Accurate Readings Using a thermometer correctly is crucial for ensuring accurate readings, especially with meat and poultry. Incorrect placement can lead to misleading results, which can result in undercooking or overcooking your dish. Pro Tip: Always clean your thermometer before and after each use to prevent cross-contamination, especially when working with raw meat. Use Rest Times Wisely Resting is crucial for meats and baked goods to finish cooking and settle after being removed from the heat. Your kitchen timer and thermometer can help you make the most of this process. Pro Tip: For meats, aim to remove them from the heat 5-10 degrees below your target internal temperature and let carryover cooking bring it up to the final desired temperature. Program Your Timer for Prep Steps Timers aren’t just for cooking—they’re also helpful during preparation. Many recipes require timed tasks, such as letting dough rise, marinating meat, or allowing batter to rest. Set your timer for each of these steps to ensure you’re not rushing through important prep tasks. Pro Tip: Use different sound alarms or labels to distinguish between prep timers and cooking timers. Stay Hands-On with Cooking Thermometers Digital and instant-read thermometers are fantastic tools, but they require active attention. You can’t just stick them in and leave them like a timer. Here’s how to get the most accurate readings: Pro Tip: Invest in a probe thermometer that stays in the meat while it cooks, giving you a real-time temperature reading without having to open the oven. Use Alarms for Thermometer Targets Some thermometers come with built-in alarms that alert you when your food reaches the desired temperature. This feature ensures that you don’t have to keep opening the oven or grill to check. Pro Tip: If your thermometer doesn’t have an alarm, set a separate timer as a reminder to check the temperature at regular intervals during cooking. Keep Batteries and Accuracy in Check A dead battery or an inaccurate reading can lead to cooking disasters. Regularly check your thermometer and timers to ensure they’re functioning correctly. Mastering the use of your kitchen timer and thermometer can elevate your cooking from good to great by ensuring precise timing and temperature control. Whether you’re baking cookies, roasting meats, or deep-frying, these tools help you cook with confidence, ensuring your food is cooked safely and to perfection. By following these tips, you’ll avoid overcooked meals and undercooked disasters, making your time in the kitchen more efficient and enjoyable.

Safety Features in Modern Cooktops: Enhancing Kitchen Safety

Posted on December 13, 2024December 13, 2024Posted in Appliances 101Tagged cooking, cooktop, electric cooktop, kitchen, kitchen appliancesNo Comments

The modern kitchen is not only a space of creativity but also a place where safety is paramount. As cooking technology has advanced, so too have the safety features integrated into cooktops. Today’s cooktops are designed with a variety of mechanisms to ensure that you can enjoy the culinary experience with peace of mind. Let’s explore some of the essential safety features in modern cooktops that are helping make kitchens safer than ever before. Auto Shut-Off Feature One of the most valuable safety features in modern cooktops is the auto shut-off mechanism. This feature automatically turns off the cooktop after a certain period of inactivity or if the temperature exceeds a safe threshold. This reduces the risk of fires or overheating, particularly if you accidentally leave a burner on or forget that something is cooking. Induction and electric cooktops often come with this feature, giving you extra reassurance in the kitchen. Child Lock For families with young children, the child lock feature is a lifesaver. This safety function prevents kids from accidentally turning on the cooktop or adjusting the settings. Most modern cooktops, particularly those with digital controls, come equipped with a child lock option. By pressing a sequence of buttons, you can lock the controls so that they are non-responsive until unlocked. This feature helps to avoid potential burn injuries or accidents when curious little hands are around. Residual Heat Indicators Cooktops can retain heat long after you’ve turned them off, and this residual heat poses a burn hazard if touched unknowingly. Modern cooktops, especially ceramic and induction types, are equipped with residual heat indicators. These lights remain on as long as the surface is still too hot to touch, offering a visual cue to stay away until it’s safe. Once the cooktop cools down to a safe temperature, the indicator light will turn off. Pan Detection in Induction Cooktops Induction cooktops have transformed kitchen safety by incorporating intelligent pan detection. This technology ensures that heat is only generated when a suitable pan is placed on the cooking zone. If there’s no pan, or if the pan is removed, the cooktop won’t generate heat. This feature significantly reduces the risk of accidental burns or fires, making induction cooktops one of the safest options available. Overheat Protection Overheat protection is another critical safety feature in many modern cooktops. This function monitors the temperature of the cooking surface and will automatically turn off the heat if it detects that the temperature is getting too high. Overheating can happen when pots are left unattended or when the cooktop is used at high temperatures for extended periods. This feature helps to prevent damage to the appliance and minimizes the risk of kitchen fires. Flame Failure Device (FFD) for Gas Cooktops For those who prefer the traditional feel of gas cooktops, safety hasn’t been left behind. Modern gas cooktops often come equipped with a Flame Failure Device (FFD). This feature automatically cuts off the gas supply if the flame is extinguished, preventing dangerous gas leaks. Whether due to a draft, spill, or the flame simply going out, the FFD ensures that gas is not released into the kitchen, thus significantly reducing the risk of explosions or fires. Temperature Limiters Temperature limiters are another excellent feature in modern electric and induction cooktops. These devices prevent the cooktop from reaching temperatures that could cause damage to the cooktop or pose a fire risk. The limiter controls the maximum heat output, ensuring that the surface doesn’t overheat, which is especially useful for reducing the risk of overheating non-stick cookware or other delicate kitchen tools. Timer Functions Many modern cooktops come with integrated timer functions, allowing you to set a cooking time for each burner or cooking zone. Once the set time has elapsed, the cooktop will automatically turn off. This feature is particularly useful for multitasking in the kitchen, as it prevents food from overcooking or burning while ensuring that the cooktop is not left on longer than needed. As the heart of the home, the kitchen should be a safe space for everyone. Modern cooktops are designed with a multitude of safety features that enhance both convenience and security. Whether you’re using an induction, electric, or gas cooktop, these safety advancements allow you to focus on cooking delicious meals while minimizing risks. From auto shut-off functions to child locks, these innovations ensure that your kitchen is equipped with the tools to protect you and your family, creating a safer, smarter cooking environment. By investing in a cooktop with advanced safety features, you’re not only upgrading your kitchen’s functionality but also safeguarding your home.

Taking Care of Your Stainless Steel Appliances

Posted on November 18, 2020November 18, 2020Posted in Appliances 101, How-To, KitchenTagged clean, cosmo appliances, kitchen, kitchen appliances, tutorialNo Comments

Stainless steel is one of the sleekest modern finishes any appliance can have. As a matter of fact, it’s the most popular among dishwashers, ranges, and refrigerators sales. But as you may soon learn, stainless steel attracts fingerprints, smudges and streaks. There are many stainless steel cleaners on the market to bring the shine back to your appliances. But we’ve compiled some tricks if you’re looking for other cost saving alternatives. It’s always a good idea to refer to your product’s user manual on any cleaning recommendations. Always avoid scouring powders, steel wool, bleach, or ammonia as these can damage your appliance’s finish. Dish Soap. You can actually mix a mild soap detergent and warm water to help clean your stainless steel. Use a microfiber cloth and rub the solution into any marks, going with the grain of the stainless steel. Rinse with cold water and dry immediately with a clean cloth after. Mineral Oil. Apply a light coating of mineral oil and buff with a cloth to avoid any tacky buildup. Steer clear of any food-based oils such as vegetable or olive oil. These kinds of oils can turn rancid. Glass Cleaner. Spray a soft, dry cloth with a glass cleaner that is ammonia and vinegar-free to buff out any pesky fingerprints that may persist. Wipe the surface clean after. Baking Soda. Create a paste of baking soda and warm water, then apply to a soft cloth or sponge. Always remember to go with the grain of your appliance. Wipe with a clean wet cloth and dry with a towel. For any remaining scratches or stains you can utilize a stainless steel cleaner to the area. Sources: Good HouseKeeping , Consumer Reports Looking to learn more? Follow us on our Facebook and Instagram.

Ducted and Ductless Range Hoods–What’s the Difference?

Posted on November 18, 2020November 18, 2020Posted in Appliances 101, KitchenTagged cosmo appliances, education, kitchen, kitchen appliancesNo Comments

All range hoods are not created equal. It’s important to know the differences when deciding which range hood would work best for your kitchen. Searching through the options, you may come across some terms you’re unfamiliar with: ducted and ductless. To better understand these functions, let’s establish the main function of a range hood: moving odors, smoke or fumes away from your kitchen when cooking meals. Ducted Range Hoods Ducted range hoods require a duct inside a kitchen that connects to the outside. The range hood pulls the air up through the duct and away from the kitchen. The main restriction here is the location of the duct, and how the kitchen is built. If you’d like to have your range hood in another location where there is no duct available, then a ducted range hood may not work for you. Humidity is a key difference here. Since the air is being moved outside, you would have a dryer air quality than a ductless option. Ductless Range Hood Ductless range hoods recirculate air back into the kitchen. They require an additional filter, usually carbon activated. One of the biggest advantages of ductless use is that they can be placed anywhere in the kitchen. Ductless range hoods can contribute to higher humidity and heat levels in kitchens since the same air is remaining in the area. Filters do have to be replaced, usually once or twice a year, which can lead to additional costs. Ductless range hoods often require more power to recirculate the air, which may create higher noise levels. At Cosmo, we offer both ducted and ductless options in our range hoods so you have the option in deciding what’s best for your needs– without sacrificing aesthetics. Check out all our range hoods here. Looking to learn more? Follow us on our Facebook and Instagram.

Father’s Day Gifts for the Man Who Loves to Cook

Posted on June 16, 2020October 14, 2020Posted in Appliances 101, Family, Home, ProductsTagged cooking at home, cosmo appliances, dads, father's day gifts, gift guide, kitchen appliancesNo Comments

Hey Family, Father’s Day is coming up. Yey! Sure, typical Father’s Day gifts generally get the job done – think golf clubs, tool set and even a stylish tie – but what about the dad who enjoys spending time making magic in the kitchen. Don’t forget him. Give him the tools he needs to succeed, whether he’s baking for the big game, preparing a meal for the family, trying out a new recipe or seeking to master the perfect steak. Reaching one’s fullest potential in the kitchen requires the right equipment, so put the best gear in his hands (or on his counter) and up his culinary experience with these ideas from Cosmo Appliances. From a Portable Induction Cooktop Burner to an Airfryer turn his Kitchen countertop into a versatile powerhouse, give your food-savvy dad what he needs to up his culinary game. For more Father’s Day gift inspiration visit cosmoappliances.com. A Super Range for a Super Dad Dad deserves tools as bold and innovative as his culinary creations. Featuring Gas or Dual Fuel Ranges that combine modern styling with high-performance cooking technology. Dad will appreciate the authentic professional appearance with a robust profile. With high performance sealed burners that deliver exhilarating precision while the convection oven provides consistent heat for perfect roasting, baking, and broiling. These one-of-a-kind Ranges are sure to take his culinary prowess to a whole new level. Previous Next BUY THIS RANGE Chef on the Go For those warm summer weekends, camping is a fantastic activity that provides hours of enjoyment and a welcome opportunity to connect with loved ones and nature. After a day full of outdoor activities, Dad will want to prepare something easy, simple and very fast. Upgrade your camping cuisine with a portable Induction cooktop. Thanks to induction technology, electromagnetic currents generate heat from within the metal in the cookware for extremely fast and even heating. Boasting impressive safety features unlike burners with flammable and combustible vapors, our system remains cool to touch until cookware is placed on it. It’s sleek, compact design allows him to enjoy cooking anywhere he goes. BUY THIS COOKTOP Guilt-Free Crispy Fried Food Made popular by claims air frying is a healthy alternative for frying food; because it replicates the wonders of deep-frying in a healthier way so Dad can still indulge in his fave fried foods like French fries. The Air Fryer, uses rapid air technology to fry, bake, roast or grill your food with only a tablespoon or less of oil. Think of it as a hi-tech counter-top convection oven. For recipe ideas click here BUY THIS AIR FRYER Bonus Gift for Dad who Loves Wine For those wine enthusiasts that insist on professional grade wine refrigeration, for at home use Cosmo has combined advanced technology and our signature sleek appearance for you to enjoy quick access to cold drinks and your favorite wine. Our 24 inch wine cooler delivers exactly the right temperature, with a single zone temperature that can be set at an ideal temperature to allow your wine to mature properly. BUY THIS WINE COOLER

Laundry Day- A “Do’s and Don’ts” Guide

Posted on May 19, 2020October 14, 2020Posted in Appliances 101, How-To, Kitchen, ProductsTagged cosmo appliances, kitchen appliances, washing machine2 Comments

Like with most kitchen appliances, there are a few tricks to washing clothes in a washing machine. Having a machine to do those seemingly endless loads of clothing is convenient. And you may think you know how to use it effectively but it’s not as straight forward as you would imagine. To ensure your clothes always come out clean and fresh it’s important you know exactly how to use a washing machine, for example you want to know the proper ways to wash your delicates or load the dryer, you’ll want to follow this guide on the right ways to do your laundry. DOs – For best results 1. DO separate colors and pre-treat stains Divide your weekly washes into four piles: whites, lights, darks, and delicates to prevent any color run disasters. Once you’ve got enough of one pile to put it in the machine, check the garments for stains. Pre-treat these items before placing in the washer to avoid having to re-wash later. Clothes should be sorted by: Fabric: separate delicate fabrics that require a gentle cycle from heavier items. Color: Keep whites separate from colors and group lighter colors from darker ones. Soil: Soil travels from one garment to garment so try to wash heavily soiled garments separately. 2. DO check garment care labels Before popping your clothes in the washing machine, check the care labels for washing guidelines for instructions on the appropriate wash cycle and temperature to set. 3. DO use laundry bags for delicates Delicate items like underwear, silks, lingerie and white items that are really precious to you should be placed in laundry bags to protect them from snagging. If you don’t have a laundry bag, use a pillowcase! 4. DO use the right amount of detergent Always read the packaging of your detergent to learn how to measure and use that specific product: Measure liquid detergents using the measuring cap Measure washing powders using the scoop provided and pour into the correct compartment of the detergent drawer (check your owner manual for this). Add washing tablets to the detergent drawer or the washing machine drum before your clothes, according to the instructions for your machine. Just like washing machine tablets, how to use laundry capsules is easy and straightforward. Pop one at the back of the drum before your clothes and go! Fill the machine with water, detergent and then add your clothes, this procedure will help detergent, fabric softener to properly dissolve in the water. 5. DO leave your washing machine door open after use This will allow it to air out and help prevent mold and mildew from growing. 6. DO prevent shrinking by using cold or warm water Cotton, denim, and various other fabrics can shrink if you wash them in hot water, so always use cold or warm water while washing woolen, cotton outfits. 7. DO clean your washing machine Regular cleaning is an important part of knowing how to use a washing machine. Set the washing machine to a hot cycle and add a cup of white vinegar to sanitize the machine and help remove smells. DON’T’s – Avoid these common mistakes 1. DON’T overload your machine Clothes crammed into the washing machine won’t be able to move around enough to get a proper clean so you could end up needing to wash them again! Likewise, do not wash small loads using a large load cycle – this will use an unnecessary amount of water and energy. 2. DON’T leave anything in pockets Check all pockets for things like tissues or plastic toys, before placing in the washing machine. A stray tissue could leave your entire load covered in white fluff! 3. DON’T put fabric softener directly on top of laundry Fabric softener should never come in direct contact with clothes as it could stain them. Consult your washing machine manual and find the correct compartment in the detergent drawer for the conditioner to be placed in – it’s usually marked with a flower. 4. DON’T use too much detergent An excessive amount of laundry detergent could leave residue on your clothing and doesn’t result in cleaner clothes. 5. DON’T leave wet clothes in for a long time Moisture from wet clothes could result in a build-up of mold in your washing machine drum, or even on your clothes. Remove clothes from the washer as soon as possible after the rinse cycle is finished and dry naturally, outside, where you can. Happy washing! With the basic dos and don’ts of how to use your washing machine covered, doing the laundry should now be a lot simpler.