Welcome! This guide is for our shared top-load washer with an agitator.
Please read this to keep the machine running smoothly and clothes safe for everyone.
⚠️ Do Not Wash In This Machine
Strict Rules: The following items can severely damage this top-loading washer or the
items themselves.
NO Plastic Bags: Never put plastic bags of any kind in the washer.
NO Backpacks: Straps get caught around the agitator.
NO Insulated Bags: Lunch bags, cooler bags, thermal grocery bags will be destroyed.
NO Items with Loopable Straps: Anything that can wrap around the agitator (long
straps, cords).
NO Large/Loose Items around Agitator: Never drape handles or straps over the center
post.
NO Rubber-backed Rugs: The backing peels off and clogs the drain.
NO Weighted Blankets: If they exceed capacity, they damage the motor.
If you are not sure whether an item belongs in this washer, clean
it another way or use a heavier-duty coin-op machine.
How to Use This Washer
Check the Drum
Look inside for leftover items from the last user. Check the area around the
agitator carefully.
Sort & Prep Laundry
Check all care labels. Empty pockets (remove coins, keys, tissues). Close zippers and buttons.
Pre-treat stains if needed.
Load the Machine Correctly
Place clothes loosely and evenly around the central agitator. Give them space to
move.
WARNING: Never wrap, tie, loop, or drape anything around the
agitator. Even "just once" can strip the gears.
Add Detergent
Measure appropriate amount for your load size. Pour into the dispenser or drum as directed by the
bottle.
Select Cycle & Settings
Choose the right cycle (Normal, Gentle, Heavy) and water temperature for your fabrics.
Start & Listen
Start the machine. Listen for a moment to ensure it sounds normal and isn't off-balance.
Unload Promptly
Remove clothes as soon as the cycle ends to prevent wrinkles and musty smells.
Sorting & Fabric Care
Sorting Basics
Whites/Lights: Hot/Warm water possible.
Darks/Brights: Cool/Cold water to prevent fading.
Delicates: Gentle cycle, mesh bags recommended.
Heavy Items: Jeans, towels (wash separately from light items to stay
balanced).
Detergent & Additives
Detergent: Measure! Too much soap leaves residue and can trap odors.
Fabric Softener: Avoid on activewear and towels (reduces absorbency).
Bleach: Use only if care label allows. Never mix with other cleaners.
Balance Tip: Mixing very heavy items (like wet
jeans) with very light items can cause the washer to spin out of balance.
Safety & Troubleshooting
Specific to Top-Loaders with Agitators
The agitator moves clothes through the water. For this to work safely, clothes must move freely.
Hanging, looping, or tying things to the agitator strains the motor and tears clothes.
If the washer starts banging or shaking hard:
Pause the cycle immediately.
Wait for the drum to stop spinning completely.
Open the lid and redistribute items evenly around the agitator.
If overloaded, remove a few heavy items.
When to Stop & Report
Unplug/Stop immediately and contact management if:
Burning or electrical smells.
Motor strains/buzzes but drum doesn't move.
Machine "walks" or moves across the floor.
Water leaks onto the floor.
Minor Fixable Issues
Soapy clothes? Too much detergent. Run an extra Rinse & Spin without soap.
Musty smell? Clothes left too long. Rewash. Leave lid open when not in use.
Simple Checklists
Before You Start
I have checked all pockets and removed loose items.
I have sorted my laundry by color and fabric weight.
I checked the drum and agitator area for previous items.
I am NOT putting plastic bags, backpacks, or insulated bags in.
I am NOT wrapping or draping anything around the agitator.
I have not overfilled the machine (clothes are loose, not packed).
Before You Leave the Room
The washer has started and sounds normal.
I know roughly when the cycle will end (set a phone timer!).
I have cleaned up any detergent spills.
I have left the area tidy for the next person.
Laundry Room Etiquette
To keep this shared space pleasant for everyone:
Timing: Please do laundry during reasonable hours (e.g., 8 AM - 10 PM) to reduce
noise.
Be Present: Don't start a load and disappear for hours. Set a timer.
Respect Others: If you must move someone's finished laundry, handle it gently.
Place it in a clean basket or on a clean table, never on the floor. Do not change their machine
settings.
Keep it Clean: Throw away lint and empty detergent bottles.
This guide can be printed and posted near the machine for reference.