Life Hacks:

Many daily appliances have dense manuals and myriad technical features, all of which can be pretty overwhelming to read and learn. But just a few minor, simple tweaks — like using a different setting on your washer or giving your vacuum cleaner some routine TLC — can help make your machine work its best and save you from a preventable, costly visit from a handyman.

Use rinse aid every time you run your dishwasher: 

Though it might seem superfluous, rinse aid — a liquid that can prevent those murky water spots on your glassware — can help you get the most out of your dishwasher. Your machine is designed to use it. And there's no evidence that rinse aid harms your gut.

Make cold water the default setting on your washing machine: 

If you’re not adjusting the settings on your washing machine’s control panel, you’re doing your laundry wrong. Our experts recommend using cold water for most loads. It does a pretty good job at busting stains, and it can keep your clothes looking better for longer.

If your vacuum seems weaker than it used to be, give it a 10-minute tune-up: 

Every vacuum needs some maintenance. Beyond emptying the dust bin when it’s full, you’ll need to wash or replace your filters, cut out any hair and threads that have gotten tangled in the spinning brush, and clear out any clogs — all of which can prevent your vacuum from breaking down after just a couple of years.

Clean your clothes dryer’s exhaust hose every year: 

You probably know to clean the lint filter after every cycle. But lint also builds up in the exhaust hose, which can be a tremendous fire hazard if left unchecked. A wire brush or a leaf blower can help you clear it out. And our appliance expert recommends picking one day each year to clean your vent — Labour Day, the first day of spring, the beginning or the end of daylight saving time, whatever works for you.