Do washing machines actually live longer with Calgon?

Author: Dr. Broderick Monahan DDS  |  Last update: Saturday, July 12, 2025

While the element in the machine without Calgon had a thicker coating of limescale, it wasn't enough to affect the machine's performance or suggest future failure. Our expert said: 'I've never met any circumstances where Calgon would've been a good investment.

Do washing machines last longer with Calgon?

Although Which? found that using Calgon did reduce the build-up of limescale in the machine, the small layer that built up when it wasn't being used was insufficient to affect the running of the machine or suggest future failure.

Do I really need to use Calgon in my washing machine?

Calgon is primarily a water softener. It isn't particularly necessary, because detergents already contain water softening ingredients. As long as you are using the correct dosage for your water hardness, you're already set.

What lives longer with Calgon?

Help your Washing Machine live longer with Calgon

Calgon protects your washing machine from Limescale, Rust, Dirt Residue and bad odours. Used in every wash, our 4in1 range of products boost machine efficiency by preventing limescale build-up and helping your washing machine to live longer.

What do washing machines live longer with?

Descaling your machine regularly will help to stop limescale building up. Run a normal wash cycle without any laundry in the drum using a large cup of distilled white vinegar or lemon juice in place of laundry detergent. Alternatively, use a descaling product such as Dr. Beckmann Service-it Power Descaler.

Introducing Calgon 3 in 1 - Washing Machine Protection Against Limescale, Residue & Odour!

Does Calgon make a difference?

Calgon softens the water

It's advertised as a limescale preventer. Technically it is, though it doesn't do anything different to the softeners in detergent (which they do state clearly now on their website). It simply softens the water, the same as detergent does.

Why do older washing machines last longer?

The truth is that older appliances were often built with sturdier materials, like good ol' fashioned metal, instead of flimsy plastic. This means that they can withstand wear and tear much better than modern appliances.

Is Calgon just a water softener?

Calgon is a brand of water softener products owned by the Anglo-Dutch company Reckitt Benckiser. Calgon, Inc.

Will Calgon stop my washing machine smelling?

While you may find temporary solutions to prevent a smelly washing machine or musty-smelling clothes, the best measure would be a preventative one. Calgon prevents limescale build-up, preventing the accumulation of any soap scum, dirt, residue, and malodours.

What ever happened to Calgon?

The brand's operations became part of Ilex Consumer Products Group LLC. In 2013, private equity firm Yellow Wood acquired Ilex Consumer Products Group; Calgon is now part of their portfolio company, PDC Brands. Calgon Carbon Corporation, acquired by its management in a leveraged buyout in 1985 and taken public in 1987.

Can I use vinegar instead of Calgon?

Simmone Galler also uses a natural method to clean her machine. She said: “Cup of white vinegar in every wash, no need for Calgon.” Natalie Jane advised: “Monthly empty 90 wash with soda crystals and lemon juice in the drum, then fill up the softer compartment with some distilled white vinegar.

Do you put Calgon in the drawer or drum?

About washing machines and Calgon

You can use Calgon in every wash and at all temperatures for limescale prevention. Just put the recommended dose of Calgon in the main wash compartment of the dispensing drawer on top of the laundry detergent. Calgon goes to work immediately as soon as the water starts to flow.

Can soda crystals damage a washing machine front loader?

The brand Dri-Pak has explained that soda crystals can be used for both cleaning your washing machine and removing limescale. On its website, the experts write "Add Soda Crystals to every wash. "Use the soft water dose of your regular detergent and make up the difference in Soda Crystals.

What washing machine has the longest life?

Brand-by-Brand Lifespan Comparison
  1. Speed Queen (20-25 Years) Speed Queen is in a league of its own regarding longevity. ...
  2. Miele (15-20 Years) Miele sets the gold standard for premium washing machines. ...
  3. Bosch (12-15 Years) ...
  4. Maytag (10-12 Years) ...
  5. Whirlpool (10-12 Years) ...
  6. Kenmore (10-12 Years) ...
  7. LG (10 Years) ...
  8. Electrolux (10 Years)

Do you put Calgon in every wash?

Use Calgon in every wash to protect the washing machine from: limescale formation, corrosion encrustation, dirt deposition and malodours development. Add Calgon into the detergent drawer, then dose the detergent recommended for soft water. It is safe to use on all fabrics. 1 CAP (50ml) = 1 DOSE.

How can I prolong the life of my washing machine?

9 Ways You Can Prolong the Lifespan of Your Washing Machine
  1. Always Check Your Pockets. ...
  2. Clean Your Washing Machine. ...
  3. Check Lint Filters and Vents. ...
  4. Do Not Overindulge in Detergent. ...
  5. Know What You Can Put in. ...
  6. Quickly Remove Wet Clothes. ...
  7. Wash the Right Amount of Clothes. ...
  8. Keep the Appliance Level.

Is Calgon green or blue better?

The blue ones just soften the water and the green ones Calgon Hygiene Plus have anti bacterial to clean your washing machine and soften the water. Kind regards, your Calgon UK team.

Will vinegar stop my washing machine smelling?

Use Vinegar to Deodorize a Washing Machine

You can also use vinegar to get rid of washer smell. Simply add 2 cups of distilled white vinegar into your washer's detergent dispenser and run a cycle on your machine's hottest setting and longest cycle.

Does Calgon affect your clothes?

It will not affect the laundry except to make it feel softer and leave a faint odour, rather like a fabric conditioner. I use gel tablets rather than powder in my AEG washing machine, and add 1 and a half capfuls of the Calgon to the powder dispenser drawer. It works fine with no adverse effects. Hope this helps.

Does Calgon really work?

While the element in the machine without Calgon had a thicker coating of limescale, it wasn't enough to affect the machine's performance or suggest future failure. Our expert said: 'I've never met any circumstances where Calgon would've been a good investment.

Is Calgon the same as Borax?

Calgon and Borax. I've typically recommended that those with a water hardness under 250ppm use Borax, and those with water hardness over 250ppm use Calgon. This was simply because Calgon tends to be more effective than Borax when the water tests over 250ppm, but Borax is by no means ineffective over 250ppm.

What is the main ingredient in Calgon?

One of the complexing agents used in Calgon® is sodium citrate (sodium 2- hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate).

Can a washing machine last 20 years?

Washing manufacturer Indesit say that they expect their products to last 7-8 years. As Indesit also owns the Hotpoint brand, it is fair to say that this standard likely applies to these machines too. On the other end of the scale, Miele say that their machines are tested to last for 20 years.

Is it worth fixing a 7 year old washing machine?

Factors to Consider

If you spent $650 on your washer seven years ago and you're doing seven loads per week (a lot of wear and tear), a new washer purchase makes sense. But if the machine is 3 years old and you spent $1,000 for it, a repair may be the better financial choice.

What is the best washer to last 10 years?

Maytag® 4.7 Cu.

With a sturdy build and a 10-year motor warranty, this Maytag washer guarantees peace of mind and lasting performance, earning it the title of the most reliable brand of washing machine in its class. Its straightforward design and advanced features balance functionality and user convenience.

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