ULTIMATE GUIDE TO Laundry

With everything from washer and dryer care to stain removal and cleaning, here's how to have the freshest clothes and linens

- BY ALLY CHILDRESS

Washer and Dryer Maintenance

Keep your clothes clean, dry and smelling great with these easy tips for appliance care

For most, laundry is a weekly or even daily task. Because you spend so much time with your washer and dryer, you may not notice they need attention before it's too late. So before your clothes aren't clean or dry, you hear a strange noise or you smell something funny, here are a few tasks to tackle on the regular.

Clean the Washing Machine Filter

Did you know your washing machine has a filter or that you have to clean it? The filter prevents lint, coins, pet hair and even socks (yes, that's where they go) from reaching the drain pump, so if you haven't cleaned it before, now's a good time.\

If you have a front-loading machine, look for a hatch on the front of the machine. Pull out the drain tube and drain any residual water into a small bowl, then remove the filter and any trapped items. Soak the filter in hot water or clean it with a brush. Top-loading machines often hide the filter on the agitator or under the rim of the tub, but some newer washers might not have a filter at all. Check your manual if you can't find it.

Get Rid of and Prevent Mold

Molds grow anywhere and everywhere, including your washing machine. To keep your clothes free of mold and smelling fresh, you have options:

1. Run the Self Clean cycle if your washer has one.