Not storing your washing machine correctly can lead to disaster!  
So let’s look at what you can do to prevent not only damaging the machine, but also the items around it and saving unnecessary expense and stress at the end of storage.

1.   Preparing a Washing Machine for Storage

This may take a day or two to ensure hoses are water free and the machine is completely dry, so plan ahead for this when moving and check your instruction manual for information specific to your machine.

•   Empty all items from the machine. Dirty clothes stored in the machine, even for a short time may be permanently marked or stained.

•   If available, run a drum clean cycle on the machine to get rid of any detergent residue.

•   Unplug power and disconnect and drain all water from the hoses and the washing machine.
Leaving water in the machine may cause it to become mouldy during storage, and water may leak causing damage to other items stored around it.
Many front loaders have a waste area you can open to get rid of a lot of excess water. This will usually be in the bottom right-hand corner. Have some towels handy to
wipe up any spills.

•   Thoroughly clean and dry the washer both inside and out.
- Remove detergent trays to clear any build-up and allow them to dry before replacing.
- Check lint filters, as these may trap water and damage the machine if left for long periods.
- Leave the door or lid ajar to ensure the machine fully dries

•   Secure the drum in the washing machine if it has locks or transit bolts.

•   Wrap all hoses and fittings together and place them in the machine so they don’t get lost.

•   Secure the power cord so that it doesn’t get caught or become a trip hazard.

2.   Selecting a Storage Facility

Choosing an appropriate storage facility is critical to keeping you items in good condition.

No Self Storage unit is totally sealed, but ensuring the unit you select is secure, water proof and has concrete floors will help keep your washing machine in the condition that you stored it.

3.   Moving to Storage

•   Remember, as with all heavy items, it is important to look after you! Use a trolley and / or get assistance to move the machine.

•   Move the washer out of place and wrap it in moving blankets to prevent damage during transit.

•   Keep the machine upright at all times to avoid damaging the drum alignment.

•   Use Furniture Ties or soft strapping to secure the washing machine in the truck or trailer.

 4.   At the Storage Unit

•   Once at the storage unit place the machine in an area that it is less likely to be knocked or banged if you will need to access items from the unit before moving out.

•   Either keep your washer wrapped in the moving blanket, or place a cotton sheet over it to help prevent dust and bugs gathering on it.

•   Prop the machine door or lid open so that moisture cannot be trapped inside during storage.

•   Avoid storing other items on top loaders where the door may be damaged.

•   If storing items on top of a front loader, ensure that they are light items only and that a protective blanket is used on the machine to prevent scratches.

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Regardless of how long you intend to store, taking the time to prepare your washing machine, transport and store it correctly, will help ensure that your machine is ready for use in your new home.

Still unsure of what you need to do? The team at Eagle Eye Self Storage are available to answer your questions and assist in ensuring there is a solution right for you.