Why you should not run the washing machine right after the first wash
Home-appliance specialists recommend a pause after the first wash that many families only learn about too late.
PRISHTINA, April 25, 2026 — Buying a new washing machine is always a happy moment for any household, but specialists warn that the way it is used in the very first days can noticeably shorten the appliance’s life. According to Telegrafi, the most common mistake is skipping a pause after the first wash.
Every new washing machine is typically run empty or with a light load before normal use, to remove factory residues. But many consumers immediately switch it back on for another load, putting strain on the motor and the valve system.
Why overload matters
According to the report, internal water systems thicken during the first wash, while seals and rubber gaskets need a little time to stabilize at the new temperature and humidity. A second wash done immediately can cause small leaks that only appear weeks or months later.
As Telegrafi puts it, “the reason many families learn too late” is that manufacturers recommend a pause of at least 30 minutes between the initial test wash and regular use.
Beyond the pause, specialists remind owners of several other forgotten rules: the drum should not be loaded above 75 percent of capacity, detergent should be measured carefully, and the detergent drawer should be cleaned at least once a month to prevent mold.
In Kosovar households, where the washing machine is often used daily for large families, maintenance becomes even more important. Repairers in Prishtina report that many breakdowns are caused by systematic overloading and by using hot programs for delicate fabrics.
The final recommendation is simple: follow the manual, take a break between heavy loads, and clean the filter a few times a year. With these habits, the machine can easily last more than a decade without major problems.
Source: Telegrafi