Doing laundry in your residence

Washing machines, payment and fault reporting differ between residences. Check the instructions in the laundry room first; this page covers the steps that are similar everywhere.

1. Read the operating and payment instructions on the specific machine.
2. Check care labels, pockets and the permitted load.
3. Select the programme and detergent to suit the fabric, soiling and machine instructions.
4. For app or card payments, keep the confirmation until the wash has started.

A quick programme mainly saves time and is not automatically the most energy-efficient option. Eco programmes often run for longer but use less energy. The care label and instructions for the specific machine remain decisive.

German Environment Agency: washing-machine guidance

1. Note the machine number, error code, time and payment transaction.
2. Check the notice in the laundry room. It gives the external contractor’s number or the local reporting route.
3. State precisely whether money was charged, the door is locked or water is leaking.
4. If you paid or were charged but the wash did not start, request a refund directly from the external contractor. Have proof of payment, the machine number and time ready.
5. Do not open or repair the machine yourself.

The external contractor handles both technical faults and refunds for failed payments. The telephone number or contact displayed in the laundry room is therefore more reliable than a central contact copied into the wiki.

If water is running or there is an electrical danger, use Damage or emergency to assess the situation.

• Remove your laundry promptly when the programme finishes.
• Do not place somebody else’s laundry on the floor.
• Clean the lint filter or visible residue only as described in the machine instructions.
• Observe local quiet hours and permitted times.