Repairman FYI's

I've been having issues with my BRAND NEW washer and although it's totally lame, I'm glad that it's still under warranty.  Well, I've had 4 different repairmen here in the past few months and I have picked their brains about how to better care for my large appliances.  I thought I'd pass along the info I have learned!

Washing Machine

• Don't use fabric softener, use vinegar instead, with every wash.  It is better than fabric softener and no, it doesn't stink.  Well, maybe I do smell like vinegar and my friends haven't mentioned it?!?!
• The vinegar not only cleans your clothes, it also will reduce static - thus no dryer sheets.  Also, this cleans your washer and it goes a long way to keep it mold free.
• personally, I haven't dried the "no dryer" sheets theory....  I think everything is SUPER static-ee in the winter.... drives me bonkers!
• Leave the door (top or front) open on your washer to air out after each washing.  
• I must mention, no vinegar if you are using bleach in that load
• Wash your heavier clothes together - ie towels and jeans.  Try to wash clothing with similar traits - loads with half towels and half regular clothes is hard on the washer. 
• Most stores suggest filling front loaders too full.  There is suppose to be 1/3 room on top of space.  If you are washing heavy clothing, ie towels or jeans, leave 1/2 of the space free.
• Use about 2 Tablespoons of soap.  Usually you don't need any more than that.  (I was using WAY MORE than that!!!)  

Dishwasher

• One technician recommended "Finish"... I still haven't finished my other supply to try this brand
• Another recommended "Lemishine" product, just 1 tsp per load (for those with hard water)
• Once a month, throw in a cup of vinegar at the basin and fill up a cup with vinegar to leave on the top rack in the upright position.  The lower vinegar will get rinsed out quickly - but with cup full on top, vinegar stays throughout the cycle.  I did this and noticed a big change in my washer immediately.
• Another technician recommended powder over gels.  He was also a fan of the little "pre-measured" packets simply because he says people use too much soap.  You should only be using 2 Tablespoons of soap.  Supposedly, too much soap will etch your glassware.

So, there you have it!!  Hopefully I won't have to bring a technician back for any repairs!