Spin Cycle Issues: Unplug And Reset Or Dive Straight Into The Filter?
I’m with you on the unplugging—nobody needs a surprise zap just for poking around a washing machine. I do think people underestimate how much a lopsided load can mess things up, though. I once tried to wash a bunch of jeans and towels together (bad idea), and the whole thing sounded like it was about to launch into orbit. Had to pause and redistribute everything, and suddenly it spun just fine.
On the detergent front, I’ve switched to those eco-friendly pods, and honestly, they seem to leave less gunk behind than the liquid stuff. Less residue means less chance of the sensors freaking out, which is always a win. I’d only mess with the filter if there’s water sitting in the drum—otherwise, it feels like overkill. Nine times out of ten, it’s just an uneven load or too much soap. Funny how the simplest fixes are usually the right ones...
Yeah, those off-balance loads are wild—my machine once started thumping so loud I thought something was actually broken. I’m with you on the pods too, way less mess. I do wonder though, has anyone had issues with those pods not dissolving all the way? I had one stick to a shirt once and it left a weird spot. Also, do you guys ever run a cleaning cycle just for maintenance, or is that overkill? I’ve heard mixed things about whether it actually helps or not...
Pods not dissolving is definitely a thing, especially if you toss them in with a heavy load or use cold water. I started putting the pod in first, before clothes, and that seems to help. As for cleaning cycles, I actually do them every couple months—my manual recommends it, and it keeps things smelling fresh. Not sure it’s totally necessary, but I’d rather play it safe than deal with weird odors or buildup down the line.
Pods can be finicky, especially in cold cycles—totally agree there. I’ve noticed that if you overload the drum, the pod sometimes gets wedged in a corner and never fully dissolves. As for cleaning cycles, I’m convinced they’re essential. Skipping them just invites gunk and mildew, especially if you use liquid detergents or pods. I run a hot empty cycle with a bit of white vinegar every month or so, and it’s made a noticeable difference in odor and residue. Manuals might be overcautious, but I’d rather not deal with a musty washer down the road.
I’m right there with you on the cleaning cycles—skipping them is just asking for trouble. I learned that the hard way a couple years back. We’d just moved into this place, and I figured, “How dirty can a washer get?” Fast forward a few months, and every load came out smelling like wet dog. Turns out, all those pods and liquid detergents were leaving behind a sticky mess in the drum and gasket. Vinegar and a hot cycle saved the day, but it took a few rounds to really clear things up.
On the pod front, I’ve noticed they’re especially stubborn in eco or cold cycles. Sometimes I’ll find half a pod stuck to a towel, which is just... gross. I started tossing pods right into the drum before loading clothes, and that’s helped a bit, but honestly, I’m leaning back toward powder these days. Less plastic waste, and it seems to rinse out cleaner.
As for spin cycle issues, I usually unplug first—just to reset any weird electronics—before messing with the filter. Learned that trick after spending an hour pulling apart the filter only to realize it was just a glitchy sensor. But if there’s standing water or it’s making that angry humming noise, then yeah, filter’s probably clogged with a sock or something. It’s always socks.
Manuals do go overboard sometimes, but I’d rather be safe than sorry. A little maintenance goes a long way—especially if you want your machine to last more than a few years. And honestly, nothing beats that fresh, clean smell after a good vinegar cycle.
