How Long Does a Washing Machine Last?

Here's what to expect.

Laundry room with a stacked washer dryer tucked between a built-in clothing rack and cabinetry unit with a countertop.

You likely use your washing machine every few days (or maybe every day) depending on the size of your household and laundry needs, so it's important that you have a reliable appliance. Understanding the average lifespan of a washing machine can help you determine how much use you can potentially get out of one appliance, and when it's time to replace one. So, how long does a washing machine last? This guide breaks down the average lifespan of a washing machine and highlights how to extend the life of your washing machine so you can get the most out of it.

How Long Does a Washing Machine Last?
Factors That Influence a Washing Machine's Lifespan
How to Increase a Washer's Lifespan
How to Tell When You Need to Replace a Washer

How Long Does a Washing Machine Last?

Closet with a front-loading washer and dryer set beside an ironing board and beneath cubby-style shelving.

So, how long do washers last? They can typically last anywhere between 6–15 years before needing to be replaced. This is an estimate that might vary depending on environmental or situational factors. The next section breaks down a list of the factors that can increase or decrease the average lifespan of a washing machine.

Factors That Influence a Washing Machine's Lifespan

Closet with a top-loading washer and front-loading dryer directly beside each other and a green folding closet door.

Now that you know the average life of a washing machine, let's go over which factors influence their lifespan. This way, you can shop for a new model with confidence!

Type

The type of washing machine you choose can potentially influence how much use you get out of it. Top-loading washers can last an average of 14 years, while front-loading washers can last approximately 10 years due to differences in design components. Review Front-Load Washer vs. Top-Load Washer: How They Compare for more info.

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Shop Top-Load Washing Machines

Wash Frequency

The frequency of your laundry days can potentially impact how long a washing machine lasts. Naturally, the more frequently you use your washing machine, the more you put it to work, and the shorter the lifespan. The good news is that most modern-day washers are built to hold up to consistent use. Similarly, you can also decrease the lifespan of a washing machine by using it too infrequently. For the best results, look for a heavy-duty washing machine that can meet your washing needs and last for years to come.

Load Size

Consider load size as another factor that can determine the lifespan of a washing machine. Larger loads put more strain on washing machine components, which can cause them to break or wear out over time. Smaller loads put less pressure on your washing machine and require less energy to spin/rotate, so your washer will likely last longer.

Water Quality

Believe it or not, the quality of your water can influence how long your washing machine lasts. If your area has hard water (water with a lot of dissolved minerals) the minerals can cause a buildup in washing machine components and cause them to break or rust over time. You can limit the amount of hard water your washing machine comes in contact with by adding a hard water filter to the water hose or by adding a water softener to each load.

Brand

That's right, the brand of a washing machine can have an influence on its lifespan! Different brands use different technologies, materials, and innovative designs with longevity and quality performance in mind. When considering a washing machine's lifespan by brand, we recommend reading product reviews, looking at industry magazines, and reviewing the average lifespan of specific models to aid in your search.

Care Practices

The way you treat your washing machine can also have a major impact on its life expectancy. This includes loading practices, maintenance, and cleaning methods. Check out this next section to discover the best ways to keep your washing machine happy and healthy.

How to Increase a Washer's Lifespan

Since we've answered "how long does a washing machine last?" and gone over the key factors that influence lifespan, let's discuss what you can do to preserve the quality of your washing machine for the long term.

Make Sure the Floor Is Level

If your floor isn't level (flat), your washing machine may not be able to drain or pump water properly, leading to a buildup of water or water leaks. An uneven floor can also cause damage to the washer because the drum can't spin effectively if it's not on a flat, even surface. Use a level to determine if the floor beneath your washer is slanted or flat. To start, place the level on the top of your washer. If the bubble rests in the center, then your floor is level and your washer is resting on a flat surface, but if not, you might need to add wooden shims under the base of the washer to level it out.

Refrain From Overloading the Machine

Overloading your washing machine with clothes can damage the drum and other washer components because they can't support the weight. For the best results, we recommend doing two smaller loads rather than one large load. You also need to disperse clothing evenly for top-loading washers so the drum stays balanced while it spins. You can also review the product manual for a washer to determine the load capacity in pounds that the drum can handle at a time. Modern washing machine models have sensors to help determine the load's weight and appropriate wash settings.

Stick to the Recommended Amount of Detergent Per Load

Adding more than the recommended amount of laundry detergent for a load size can cause a buildup of suds and detergent residue. This can clog parts of your washing machine and even lead to mold and mildew growth. Make sure to read the directions on your laundry detergent container to determine the maximum amount of detergent for a load size.

Change Over Your Laundry Right Away

We've all been guilty of leaving a load of freshly-washed clothes in the washer for a few hours – or even overnight – but did you know this could be decreasing your washer's quality over time? The wet clothes can cause a buildup of mold and mildew that can cause your washing machine to rust or smell over time. To prevent this, make sure to prioritize switching over a load to the dryer as soon as the wash cycle ends. Have a front-loading washer? Make sure you leave the door open for a bit after switching over your load. This allows any moisture to evaporate and prevents mildew. Top-loading washers allow for water evaporation without the need to leave the door open.

Check Pockets Before Tossing Clothing in the Wash

Getting in the habit of emptying your pockets before adding clothing to the washer can save you and your washing machine! Earbuds, coins, gum packets, and wrappers are just a few examples of small items that can deteriorate your washing machine over time. These items can damage the washing machine drum and cause residue buildup.

Keep Up With Maintenance

You can extend the life of your washing machine and ensure it operates smoothly by prioritizing basic maintenance and upkeep over time. Here are a few tips for washing machine maintenance and upkeep:

Every 2–3 months: Add two cups of white vinegar to an empty washing machine and turn on the hot water cycle. Allow the washing machine to complete the cycle to remove residue from lint or detergent and to keep your washing machine mold- and mildew-free. If you have a newer washing machine model, there might be a special clean cycle!
Every 3 Months: Clean/empty out the pump filter to keep lint from building up or clogging components.
Every 3–5 Years: Washing machine hoses need to be replaced every few years to prevent water leaks and damage to the machine.

How to Tell When You Need to Replace a Washer

Here are a few situations that could signal that it's time to replace your washing machine:

If It's More Than Eight Years Old: Depending on the model, if your washer is more than seven or eight years old and experiencing issues, it might be time to upgrade to a new model. This is because your washing machine has naturally begun to wear down after years of use.
If You're Experiencing Leakage or Drainage Issues: For water leakage or drainage problems, you can change the water hoses and drain pump, but if it persists, it could be a sign of a more complex repair or a cracked drum.
If Your Washer Outputs an Unpleasant Noise or Vibration: In this scenario, the support system around the drum that keeps it steady (the shock absorbers) has worn down, causing the washing machine to move or vibrate uncontrollably when in use.
If It Costs More to Repair Than to Replace: If fixing your current washer is going to cost around the same it would to replace it, it might just be time for an upgrade!