Where would we be without our humble washing machine? The popular kitchen staple has made many people’s lives that much easier as clean clothes can be achieved with a simple push of a button as the machine then does its thing. But when it comes to the buttons on washing machines, most are none the wiser as to which ones work for which.

So much so, a new survey has found that four in 10 people all stick with the same setting every time they use their washing machine as they’re too confused by the number of settings. One elusive button on a washing machine though could make all the difference, even saving you on energy usage of up to £70.

Ryan Adams is a Miele kitchen appliance expert and director of Ati Harrogate and revealed how pressing the spin button on your washing machine can make a big difference in the long run.

According to Adams, pushing this button before using the tumble dryer will help to cut energy usage and help households save up to £70 per year.

Adams explained: “Placing wet clothes directly into a tumble dryer forces the appliance to work much harder. 

“Running a second spin cycle in the washing machine to remove excess water and untangling items before drying helps the clothes move freely in the drum, reducing strain on the dryer.

“Including a thorough spin cycle before tumble drying can help households potentially save between £29 to £72 annually.”

The washing machine expert didn’t stop there and also explained how there are three other common mistakes most are definitely making when it comes to their prized machine.

“Washing towels and bed linen in the same load can cause excessive strain on a washing machine,” added Adams.

“The added water weight often exceeds the recommended load capacity, potentially damaging the drum shaft and bearings. 

“Additionally, these items tend to form a single heavy ball during the cycle, which can bounce around and harm the machine’s internal parts.”

Other mistakes include not checking pockets of clothes before putting them in the washing machine which is known to cause “significant damage to washing machines and dryers”. 

Finally, not emptying the lint trap could be another seemingly innocent mistake many make which could see high repair bills down the line.

Adams said: “Neglecting the lint trap can have serious consequences. A clogged trap reduces airflow, forcing the dryer to work harder, which not only wastes energy but also risks overheating the appliance.

“Regularly cleaning the lint trap before each drying cycle makes it more efficient and safer, preventing fire hazards.”