Overview
- Consumer reports warn that keeping the door permanently open can deform hinges and dry out rubber seals, leading to leaks and costly repairs.
- ÖKO-TEST advises leaving the door open for at least 30 minutes after a cycle so the drum and door can dry fully.
- Merkur.de recommends roughly one hour of airing to let residual moisture evaporate without placing sustained stress on components.
- One appliance expert, Yasushi Anzō, suggests three to four hours of ventilation and says a constantly open door may be acceptable with daily use.
- Alternatives include leaving the door only slightly ajar or opening the detergent drawer, alongside routine care such as wiping seals, running occasional hot cycles, and using machine cleaners.