'Secret' button on washing machine can unlock door in emergencies

11 March 2024 , 18:04

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You don't have tp panic when you can't open the door in an emergency (Image: Getty Images/Westend61)

There's no worse feeling than putting a wash on and remembering there's something in the pocket of an item about to get washed - so what do you do?

It can be frustrating, not to mention worrying, especially if it's an electrical item or a piece of paper as the doors will usually lock until the end of the wash - but one cleaning fanatic revealed there is a "secret" button that will unlock the door for you.

TikToker Jeeves, who goes by the name Clean Freakz regularly shares cleaning tips and tricks, and in this latest video, Jeeves showed how to access the "secret latch" as reported by Nottingham Live.

In the video, Jeeves said: "You should know that there's a secret latch on your washing machine that will allow you to open the door in case of emergency or if your machine is malfunctioning and won’t release the door. For example, you lose power and do not want your clothing to get mouldy."

The cleaning guru added: "It is located right next to the filter that you should be cleaning out every few months." The latch is usually located at the bottom of the machine on either the left or right of the machine, and you may need to remove a small cover to get to it.

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When opened water may leak out so you should put a towel down beforehand. Jeeves instructed: "Grab something small and slide the latch to the left. This is quite literally a string that opens the door. This will immediately end the cycle and open the door." He also stressed: "I only recommend it as a last resort if your machine will not open."

It's recommended to clean your washing machine filter every month according to home appliance brand Beko. They stated: "We recommend cleaning your washing machine filter every month to ensure your machine continues to operate at maximum efficiency. If you have pets or frequently wash heavily soiled items, you may need to clean the filter more often."

People were quick to comment on the secret latch, as many had no idea it existed, and others shared alternatives. One TikToker penned: "Ours has a little ring to pull LIFE SAVER!" While another suggested: "Turn off the machine it will open after a few minutes."

Niamh Kirk