Expert offers simple washing machine tip that could save '£70 a year' on energy bills

A kitchen appliance expert has offered tips to help reduce the cost of household bills - including a simple button on your washing machine that shouldn't be overlooked

Pressing one simple button on your washing machine could save you over £70 a year on your energy bills, an expert has revealed.

According to a kitchen appliance expert, the simple trick could help households save between £29 and £72 annually depending on their usage and electricity tariff, the Express reports.

Ryan Adams, director of appliance specialists Ati Harrogate, is urging households to run the spin cycle on their washing machines before transferring clothes to the tumble dryer. This simple change is a quick and effective way to slash drying time, and with it, energy costs, he says.

He added: "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."

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The tip comes at a time when energy prices remain a concern for millions of Brits, and small changes to daily routines can yield significant savings over time.

Alongside neglecting the spin cycle, Ryan also shared three common laundry mistakes that could be damaging your appliances - and your wallet.

Washing towels and bed linen together

Adam has warned of washing towels and bed linen together, stating that their combined weight could cause damage to your washing machine.

He said: “Washing bulky items like towels and bed linen in one load may seem efficient but can actually cause severe damage to your machine.

“The extra water weight often exceeds load capacity and the items form a heavy ball, which can harm the drum and internal mechanisms."

Not checking pockets

Forgetting to check pockets for coins or keys is a frequent and costly error. Not only can it be annoying to lose your personal items, but it can cause serious damage to your washing machine.

Adam said: “Loose objects can rattle around and cause significant damage during a cycle. It’s a simple habit that can save on repairs.”

Ignoring the lint trap

Many people forget to clean the dryer’s lint trap before each use, but this oversight can be dangerous - resulting in fires in serious causes.

“A clogged trap reduces airflow, wastes energy, and increases the risk of overheating and even fire. Always empty it before starting a new cycle,” Adam said.

By addressing these small but impactful habits, homeowners can extend the life of their appliances and significantly reduce household energy costs.