Statewide Appliance Spares Blog

How do you tackle laundry day? Do you take a relaxed, haphazard approach, tossing clothes in the washer when your laundry basket is overflowing or do you tackle it with military-style precision, sorting, prepping, and washing like a pro? Regardless of your approach, mastering the art of laundry is essential for maintaining clean clothes and a clutter-free home. We share an easy laundry routine with tips for sorting, prepping and washing to make your laundry day a breeze! Step 1: Sorting your laundry The first step to a successful laundry routine is sorting. Sorting your laundry not only helps to preserve the quality of your clothes but also ensures the best cleaning results and streamlines the washing process. Separate by colour: Divide your clothes into whites, lights and darks to prevent colours from bleeding onto each other. Sort by fabric type: Delicate fabrics like silk and wool should be washed separately from heavier fabrics like denim or towels to avoid damage during the washing process. Check care labels: Pay attention to the care instructions on your clothing tags to determine the appropriate wash cycle and water temperature. Tackling a supersized laundry pile If you are dealing with a family size laundry pile, you can sort your clothes into groups first: Everyday laundry – cotton and durable synthetics like T-Shirts, underwear and socks Sheets, towels and bedding Activewear & swimwear Denim Delicate fabrics Items that are heavily soiled Be sure to separate each group by colour – white, lights and darks. Laundry sorting tips and tricks To streamline the sorting process, invest in multiple laundry baskets or bins designated for different loads. You can even buy hampers with built in dividers. Label each basket accordingly (e.g., lights, darks, delicates) to make sorting more efficient and organised. Keep stain removal pre-treatments by the clothes baskets so items can be treated ahead of time. Turn dark coloured garments inside out before washing. This reduces friction when washing and helps to reduce fading when drying in the sun. For small or delicate items like socks, lingerie, or baby clothes, consider using mesh laundry bags to keep them contained and protected during the wash cycle. Step 2: Prepping your laundry Check for stains: Before loading clothes into the washing machine, inspect them for any stains and treat them with a stain remover. Empty pockets: Before washing, be sure to check pockets for any loose items like coins, keys or tissues that could damage your clothes or washing machine. Close zippers and fasten buttons: Zip up zippers and fasten buttons to prevent snagging and damage to other garments in the load. Unroll sleeves and pant legs: Ensure sleeves and pant legs are unrolled to allow for thorough cleaning and prevent wrinkles. Step 3: Washing your laundry Now that your laundry is sorted and prepped, it's time to tackle the washing process Select your laundry detergent: Choose a detergent suitable for your laundry needs. Use laundry powder for heavily soiled or stained clothes, as it is more effective at removing tough stains and odours. Use laundry liquid for delicate fabrics or clothes that require a gentle cycle, as it is less likely to damage these types of fabrics. Load size: Use the recommended amount of detergent for the size of your load. Overloading the machine can cause the detergent to be less effective and can lead to other problems like excess suds. Use the right amount of laundry detergent: Too much detergent can leave residue on your clothes, while too little may result in insufficient cleaning. Follow the recommended dosage on the detergent packaging and adjust based on load size and soil level. Choose the right water temperature: Different fabrics require different water temperatures for the best cleaning results. Use cold water for delicate items and hot water for heavily soiled garments, while warm water is suitable for most everyday laundry. Choose the correct cycle: Select the appropriate wash cycle based on the fabric type and soil level of your laundry. Most washing machines offer a variety of cycles, including normal, gentle and heavy-duty.  Use the short wash cycle for items that need a light freshening up. It will get the job done and save on water and energy use. Handy hint! Managing multiple loads of laundry can be quite time-consuming. To make laundry day more manageable, consider breaking it down into specific tasks. Designate separate days for washing different types of items, such as sheets and towels on one day, kids' clothes on another, and everyday laundry on yet another day. This approach prevents the laundry workload from becoming overwhelming and allows you to focus on each category more efficiently. Washing machine maintenance tips To keep your washing machine running smoothly and efficiently, regular maintenance is key. Here are some maintenance and repair tips to extend the lifespan of your machine: Clean your washing machine regularly Sanitise and deep clean your washer: For top load washing machine, set your machine at its hottest and longest setting. When it has filled up with water, add 2 cups vinegar and 1/2 cup baking soda. Let it run for a complete cycle. For front load washing machine, add 2 tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda into the detergent drawer and ½ cup white vinegar into the drum. Let it run for a complete cycle on the hottest setting. Clean the detergent and softener dispenser trays: Trays need to be regularly cleaned to eliminate bacteria and grime. Simply remove and clean with warm soapy water. Use an old toothbrush to clean any hard-to-reach corners. Clean the outside of the machine: Using a soft, damp cleaning cloth, wipe the exterior with an all-purpose cleaner. We recommend Aktivo All Purpose cleaner – an eco-friendly cleaner that is tough, with a gentle and non-toxic formula. Wipe down the drum, door and gasket: Give the seals a thorough clean with a toothbrush or soft bristled sponge. Water, dirt, and grime can get trapped in the seal’s folds, leaving a musty smell or cause mould or mildew to grow.  Check the seals for any damage, splits or cracks. Descale your washing machine From time-to-time limescale can start to build up, particularly if you have hard water. Limescale can reduce the efficiency of your washing machine. To descale your machine use Aktivo Dishwasher + Washing Machine Descaler – just add to your machine as per the instructions. This will help remove unwanted odours and thoroughly cleanse your washing machine. Don't forget your lint filter If your washer has a removable lint filter/trap, you can give this a good clean. For front loaders, locate the small access door at the front. Place a towel underneath. Turn the filter counter-clockwise to remove it. Let water drain into a bowl. Rinse the filter under hot water and use a brush to remove particles. Reinstall and lock the filter before closing the door. For top loaders, consult your manual to find the lint trap. It's usually along the top rim or inside the agitator. Remove, clean with hot soapy water, scrub with a brush, then reinstall. Inspect your washer Inspect hoses and connections: Check hoses and connections for any signs of leaks, cracks, or damage. Replace worn hoses or connections to prevent water damage to your home and prolong the life of your machine. Check for leveling: Make sure your washing machine is level and stable. If it wobbles or shakes during operation, adjust the feet to ensure it sits flat on the ground. If you notice any unusual noises, leaks, or malfunctions, address them promptly to prevent further damage. Consult the manufacturer's manual or seek assistance from a qualified service technician if needed. Tackling laundry day doesn't have to be a difficult or daunting task. By sorting, prepping, and washing your laundry with care, you can ensure clean and fresh clothes every time. Additionally, regular maintenance and timely repairs will keep your washing machine running smoothly for years to come. All the latest on the Statewide blog Visit our blog for all the latest on washer & dryer repairs and care. We show you how to effectively descale your washing machine and share the best tips to get rid of washing machine smells. Check out our YouTube channel Need help with your home appliance repairs and maintenance? Check out our DIY videos on our YouTube Channel. All the expert hints and tips to make appliance repairs a breeze! Need spare parts for your washing machine? Find replacement spare parts for your washing machine at Statewide Appliance Spares. All the big brands with the lowest prices guaranteed.

Stainless steel appliances have become a staple in many homes, adding a sleek finish and a modern, sophisticated touch to any space. Whether you have a stainless steel refrigerator, dishwasher, or oven, the stunning appearance can quickly lose its lustre without proper care and maintenance. Give your appliances a sparkling clean finish and with our expert guide to cleaning and polishing stainless steel appliances. Why proper care of stainless steel appliances is important Proper care maintains their sleek and modern appearance and aesthetic appeal Regular maintenance prevents rust and corrosion Kitchen appliances, can harbour bacteria, germs, and food residues. Cleaning and disinfecting the surfaces of your appliances reduces the risk of cross-contamination and foodborne illnesses. Stainless steel appliances can show fingerprints, smudges, and stains easily. Regular care and cleaning will remove these marks, keeping your appliances looking pristine. Handy hint! Before using any cleaning method or product, always test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it does not damage or discolour the stainless steel. Cleaning your stainless-steel appliances Start with a gentle cleanser For routine cleaning, dish soap or a mild stainless steel cleaner is all you need. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a bowl. Dampen a microfibre cloth or soft sponge in the soapy solution, wring it out, and gently wipe the surface of your appliance. Ensure you follow the grain of the steel, which is typically a brushed or polished pattern. Remove tough stains To tackle tough and stubborn stains, try Aktivo Stainless Steel Cooktop Cleaner. This can be used on a variety of surfaces including cooktops, sinks and tapware. The non-toxic formula can remove the toughest of stains without scratching or damaging the surface. Natural solutions There are a number of natural alternatives that can also remove tough stains effectively. These include: White vinegar White vinegar is a versatile and effective solution for tackling stubborn stains and fingerprints. Moisten a cloth with vinegar and gently rub the stained area in the direction of the grain. Avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool, as they can scratch the surface. Rinse the area with water and wipe it dry with a clean cloth. Baking soda Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that can effectively clean the most stubborn stains. First, create a paste by mixing baking soda with water until it forms a thick consistency. Then apply the paste to the affected areas, scrub gently with a soft cloth or sponge, and rinse with water. Lemon Juice Cut a lemon in half and use the cut side to rub the surface of your stainless-steel appliances. The citric acid in lemon juice helps to dissolve grease and stains, leaving a fresh scent and a brightened appearance. Rinse the appliance with water afterward and dry it thoroughly. Restore the shine Over time, stainless steel can lose its lustre. To restore its shine, we recommend Aktivo Stainless Steel Polish.  Just apply to apply to a dry, lint free cloth and wipe lightly in the direction of the grain. The polish will not only remove finger print marks, water spots and smears, it will leave a transparent film that protects against marks re-appearing. Alternatively, you can apply a small amount of olive oil or mineral oil on a cloth and rub it onto the surface of your appliances to enhance the shine. Stainless steel cleaning tips Keep your stainless steel appliances clean, fingerprint and smear free with these handy tips: Regular cleaning Wipe down your stainless steel appliances regularly with a soft cloth or sponge dampened with water to remove dust, dirt, and fingerprints. This simple step can help maintain their appearance and prevent the buildup of grime. Follow the grain When cleaning or polishing stainless steel, always wipe or scrub along the grain of the steel. Following the grain helps to prevent streaks and maintain the natural pattern of the stainless steel. Avoid abrasive materials Do not use abrasive materials such as harsh scrub brushes, or scouring pads on stainless steel appliances as these can scratch and damage the surface. Opt for soft cloths, microfiber cloths, or non-abrasive sponges instead. Be mindful of harsh chemicals Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners on stainless steel appliances, as they can strip away the protective layer and cause discoloration. Stick to mild dish soap, vinegar, or products formulated for stainless steel appliances Test area Before applying any cleaning product or method to your appliances, test it in a small, inconspicuous area first. This will help ensure that it does not cause any damage or discoloration. Remove stains promptly If you notice any stains, spills, or fingerprints on your appliances, clean them promptly. The longer stains sit, the harder they can be to remove. Use gentle cleaners and a soft cloth to tackle any stubborn marks. Dry thoroughly After cleaning, make sure to dry your appliances thoroughly with a clean, lint-free cloth. Water spots or mineral deposits can leave marks on the surface if left to air dry. Gentle cleaning works best Do not apply excessive force when cleaning your appliances. Gentle, consistent cleaning motions are usually sufficient. Using too much force can lead to scratches or damage to the surface. Use oil for shine To enhance the shine of your stainless steel appliances, you can apply a small amount of olive oil or mineral oil on a cloth and rub it onto the surface. This can help restore and maintain a glossy appearance. Regular cleaning and proper care will ensure your stainless steel appliances remain in great condition, maintaining their beautiful appearance and durability for years to come. Find all your spare parts at Statewide Appliance Spares Statewide Appliance Spares is your go-to destination for all your home appliance spare parts. We have the biggest range of spares for all the top brands, ready for fast Australia wide shipping. All the latest on the Statewide blog Visit our blog for tips on keeping your appliances running like new and the best cleaning products for your home. Check out your YouTube channel Need help with home appliance repairs and maintenance? Check out our DIY videos on our YouTube channel. All the expert hints and tips to make appliance repairs a breeze! https://youtu.be/BnMAyKLwtSY

Cleaning our home is not usually on the top of our list of favourite things to do (unless you are Friends self-proclaimed neat freak Monica Gellar).  A sparkling clean home requires a little elbow grease and the right cleaning products.  Clever appliances and some simple, yet effective cleaners mean you can get the job done in no time (and get back to the things you really love). We’ve taken the guesswork out of cleaning with our top picks of the best cleaning products for your home. Best All-Purpose Cleaner The kitchen is often the hardest working room in your home – it’s the hub for after school catch ups, food prep and meal times. Get your kitchen sparkling clean with these high performing and multi-tasking cleaners. Gentle and non-toxic, the Aussie made Aktivo All Purpose Cleaner is tough on stains and big cleaning jobs around the house. Simply spray and wipe down your surfaces with a clean cloth. Added bonus: the fresh citrus scent will leave your kitchen smelling lovely! Best for Oven Cleaning With a powerful non-caustic and low fuming formulation, the Aktivo Easy Off Oven & BBQ Cleaner can lift away grease, grime, fat and burnt food. Just spray, wait and wipe. The best part? This high performing, eco friendly cleaner can be used on a range of appliances. Try it on your oven, oven doors, microwave, cooktop or grill. Best for Rangehood Cleaning Your rangehood filters can be easily removed and cleaned with warm soapy water and soaked in a solution of baking soda and water. Alternatively spray your filters with Aktivo Easy Off Oven & BBQ Cleaner to help lift away grime.  Even easier, just pop them in your dishwasher and put through a hot cycle. Read our handy rangehood cleaner tips on our blog. Best for Cooktop Cleaning Effortlessly reduce stubborn stains, burnt on grease and build up with Unilux Glass Cooktop Cleaner – just spray and wipe. Safe for both induction and ceramic cooktops, this makes after dinner clean up a breeze. Prefer a cream cleanser for your cooktop? Try Aktivo Glass & Ceramic Cooktop Cleaner. The finely milled abrasive is specially formulated to dissolve and remove stains. If you have a gas stove burner, check out our easy cleaning guide. Best for Stainless Steel Shine Remove finger prints instantly with Aktivo Stainless Steel Polish. This light oil polish will leave a light film on the surface that repels dirt, kids sticky finger marks and adds long lasing shine. Best for Cleaning your Coffee Machine Fresh brewed and better tasting coffee starts with a clean coffee machine. Remove coffee residue, and hard water deposits that build up over time with Aktivo Espresso Machine Cleaner. To remove milk residue and build up on steam wands, valves and tubes, try the Aktivo Milk Frother Cleaner + Sanitiser. It effectively kills salmonella, e coli and listeria. Best Eco-Friendly Bathroom Cleaner Tackle the bathroom with the power of enzymes. Enzyme based cleaning products are designed to reduce cleaning time, with safe and effective solutions that are non-toxic, biodegradable and safe around humans and animals. Enzyme Wizard Bathroom/Toilet Cleaner removes mineral build-up like calcium and lime, eliminates odours and removes soap scum and grime. Can be safely used on all bathroom surfaces, toilet, shower screens and bath tub. Best for Streak-free Glass & Windows Give your mirrors (and glass) a streak free finish with Aktivo Glass & Window Clean. This ammonia free cleaner will get your glass and mirrors looking shiny and clear. Just spray and wipe clean with a paper towel or microfibre cloth. Best for Floors Save time with Enzyme Wizard No Rinse Floor Cleaner. The soap-free multi-enzyme formula lifts grease and grime from floors and grout lines. Safe for tiles, lino, concreate and wooden floors, just mop and go. Best Pet-Safe Option Remove pet (and human!) urine stains and odours with Enzyme Wizard Urine Stain & Odour Remover. Biodegradable, environmentally friendly and safe, just spray the surface and let stand for 5-10 minutes. Wipe down the area with a microfibre cloth to remove excess product and stains. Best for Carpets Combat tough carpet stains with Bissell Pretreat for Carpet & Upholstery. Have it on hand and use for those unexpected spots and spills like coffee, wine and make-up. Electrolux cleans up as the best stick vacuum in Australia and the Ergorapido Allergy 2 in 1 Cordless vacuum cleaner will not disappoint. Easy to manoeuvre and use, we love that it captures up to 99.99% of micro dust and has a long run time. The detachable handheld unit makes cleaning up mess, dust and dirt fast and easy. Now that you have the right products for a great clean, check out our cleaning tips and hacks. We’ve compiled our top 35 time saving savvy tips to clean every room in your home. Shop our range of cleaning products at Statewide Appliance Spares with fast Australia wide delivery. We offer an extensive range of cleaning products from leading brands including Aktivo, Enzyme Wizard, Unilux, Bissel and more.

Deep cleaning your house can often be time consuming and hard work. Our 35 savvy, time-saving cleaning hacks can make the job a little easier, so that you can get back to doing the things you enjoy. Kitchen cleaning tips 1. Cut up a lemon into small slices and put through the garbage disposal to add a fresh scent to your sink. 2. Clean a wooden chopping board by sprinkling with bicarbonate soda or salt. Then, run the cut side of a lemon over the chopping board. Rinse and air dry. 3. Make your dull stainless-steel sink sparkle again. First, sprinkle bi-carb soda onto the sink, then scrub with a damp soft bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly. 4. Want to remove built up film and restore cloudy glasses and stemware? Soak in white wine vinegar for a few minutes. Rinse and dry with a soft microfibre cloth. Natural clean 5. Add 3-4 tablespoons of lemon juice to 1 cup of water in a microwave safe bowl. Place in microwave on high setting for 5 mins. The steam will break down grease and grime. Wipe with soft cloth. 6. Place your mesh rangehood filters in the dishwasher on a hot cycle. The steam will loosen particles and the water spray will get into the nooks. If your rangehood needs extra TLC read about more handy hints on our blog. 7. Ever dropped a plate or glass and need to pick up all the tiny shards of glass? Press pieces of bread onto the surface. The spongy surface will easily lift tiny glass particles. 8. Get your windows sparkling again with your own DIY solution – Just mix ½ cup vinegar, ¼ cup rubbing alcohol and 2 cups water into a spray bottle. Spray and wipe clean with a soft microfibre cloth. 9. Use an eraser pad block (such as Magic Eraser) to clean light grease and grime on your oven glass. 10. Clean out crumbs in and around your toaster with a paint brush (making sure the toaster is cool and unplugged first). 11. Enjoy your morning smoothie without the big clean up. Half fill your empty blender with water, add a drop of dishwashing detergent and switch on for 30 seconds. Rinse and dry thoroughly. 12. Use left-over ground coffee beans to gently scrub pots and pans. 13. Buff your stainless steel fridge with olive oil. Just add a few drops to a soft cloth and rub in circular motions to gently clean and shine. Laundry tips 14. Put your machine through a vinegar and bicarb soda cycle. For top load washing machine, set your machine at its hottest and longest setting. When it has filled up with water, add 2 cups vinegar and 1/2 cup baking soda. Let it run for a complete cycle. For front load washing machine, add 2 tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda into the detergent drawer and ½ cup white vinegar into the drum. Let it run for a complete cycle on the hottest setting. 15. Remove oil or grease stains from clothing by rubbing white chalk into the stain. Wash as normal. 16. Make your whites brighter by adding a cupful of vinegar after the detergent. 17. Give each family member a mesh bag for their dirty socks. Pop the mesh bags into the wash on laundry day. Never lose a sock again! 18. Hate ironing? Iron clothes while they’re damp - it will save you time and the moisture helps release wrinkles. For more washing machine and dryer cleaning hacks check out our blog post Bedroom cleaning tips 19. Vacuum your mattress to remove dead skin sells that attract dust mites. 20. To freshen up carpets, sprinkle some baking soda and let set for a few minutes. Vacuum thoroughly. Kids room organising tips 21. Place kids’ plastic toys through the dishwasher and run through a warm wash for a thorough clean. 22. Creative time is fun, but not when there are texta marks on your wooden furniture! Erase marker stains with toothpaste. 23. Crayon marks on walls can gently be wiped way with a credit card, then lightly dabbed with methylated spirits. Bathroom cleaning tips 24. Unclog your shower head by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water. Pour into a plastic bag and tie around the shower head to fully immerse in the solution. Tie with a twist tie and leave overnight. Remove and wipe away any debris. 25. Remove stubborn stains, toothpaste splatters and soap scum from your bathroom counters by mixing equal parts of water and vinegar. Using a soft bristled brush, gently scrub the counter tops in circular motion. 26. Get your mirror sparkly clean with shaving cream! Take a soft cloth and apply a little shaving cream to it. Buff your mirror in circular motions. 27. Make your own DIY toilet cleaner. Add 10 drops tea tree essential oil with 10 drops lemon essential oil to 1 cup baking soda. Then, let the mixture sit in the bowl for an hour and scrub with toilet brush before flushing. Living room tips 28. Buff out scuffs on timber floors with a clean tennis ball. 29. Fresh wine spills on your carpet can be cleaned with salt! Pour a generous amount of salt over the area and once dry, vacuum the excess. 30. Dust window blinds with old socks. Make a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar, then add a few drops to a clean old sock. Wipe over each section of your blinds. 31. Clean your couch with baking soda. Simply brush the couch to remove any dirt or debris. Sprinkle baking soda and let sit for 30 minutes. Vacuum any residue. 32. Give your air conditioner filter a clean. Remove excess dust, grime and debris with a vacuum cleaner. Next wash the filters in warm soapy water. Allow to dry completely before replacing. Read our full guide to cleaning your air conditioning filter on our Statewide blog. Other handy tips 33. Your phone is a breeding ground for bacteria! Remove your phone from your case and switch off power. Use an alcoholic wipe to gently clean your screen. Avoid ports. Lastly, let air dry for 5 minutes and then wipe with a clean soft cloth. 34. Freshen up smelly sneakers by sprinkling bicarb soda inside to deodorise. Just be sure to tap away excess before wearing them again! 35. Use a lint roller to clean your screen doors. It’s a great way to get rid of cobwebs, pet hair and debris. If you are after premium cleaning products that deliver outstanding results check out the range from Aktivo. Australian made and eco-friendly, their active formulas get the job done. Available on the Statewide website. Shop now, with fast, Australia wide delivery.