Community Chat

[SilleeMee]

Google says:

For a new washing machine...

It is recommended to run a new washing machine for a full cycle before using it to wash clothes. This is known as a "pre-wash" cycle and is important for several reasons: Testing: Running a pre-wash cycle allows you to test the machine to make sure it is functioning properly before using it to wash clothes.

For a new dryer...

Yes, you should run a new dryer empty for about 15–20 minutes to burn off gases and oil residue from the packing material. New dryers may smell like something is burning, especially if they're new gas or electric dryers.If your dryer smells like plastic, run it a few times to get rid of the smell.

Sounds logical to me.

[on the bay]

@kitcat51,

EWw! creepy. That would convince me too to wipe or put thru an old towel or something in a new dryer!

[ID2]

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@lgfan wrote:

The poster wants suggestions in how to clean the dryer before she uses it to dry clothes.  I would suggest to put a dryer sheet by itself in the dryer first then dry your clothes.

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I've had many washers and dryers in my lifetime. I had a dryer, years ago, that it was written in their booklet that they would void your warranty if you used a dryer sheet in their dryer. I've never used dryer sheets in any of my dryers since. 

[vermint]

While I think test cycles, etc. are really good advice, it's never occured to me to run them when I've gotten new washers/dryers (and the installers have never suggested it)...whether for cleaning or testing. I just start using them as normal. Fortunately, I've never had a problem.

[lgfan]

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@ID2 wrote:

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@lgfan wrote:

The poster wants suggestions in how to clean the dryer before she uses it to dry clothes.  I would suggest to put a dryer sheet by itself in the dryer first then dry your clothes.

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I've had many washers and dryers in my lifetime. I had a dryer, years ago, that it was written in their booklet that they would void your warranty if you used a dryer sheet in their dryer. I've never used dryer sheets in any of my dryers since. 

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If you don't use dryer sheets what do you use in the dryer?

[Carmie]

Just wipe the dryer drum out with a damp cloth.

Dryer sheets coat the drum with chemicals and wax and only makes the inside of the dryer dirty.

Dryer sheets also damage your dryer over time by rubbing wax over the drum and sensors.  

You shouldn't use dryer sheets in the dryer at all...ever. They ruin your clothing and your dryer.

[on the bay]

@lgfan,

I never use dryer sheets either. I use 3 woolen dryer balls that you can buy in most stores or online. I use vinegar sometimes to soften clothes or towels in the washer. It is also a great anti-bacterial. (and it doesn't make the clothes smell like vinegar).

[KG60]

You could use a damp cloth and wipe the drum down inside to get any shipping dust that might be in there. We bought an expensive Speed Queen set last summer, Commercial duty. The dryer kept leaving hard black smears and black cinder like pieces all over our clothes. After ruining several bed spreads and clothes, I figured out that the vent screen in the back of the dryer drum, was painted black by the factory. I took it out and there was the melted paint and hard black pieces!! I ordered a stainless steel one to replace it from amazon, problem solved. Speed Queen was of no help. But that was the best 15.00 I ever spent. 

[snipsnapsnur]

Overthink things much?

[Burnsite]

BeeChee,  I have always just thown in some laundry to make sure the machines work.  You're probably right to think about cleaning it for residues but that has never occurred to me.