‘Machine Care’ is a new item on the calendar. A quick 5-minute session each month for your dishwasher and washing machine can extend their lifespan by up to 5 years on average. A cleaning programme removes soap scum, grease and other built-up grime. This helps avoid costly repairs and ensures these indispensable appliances last 5 years longer.
A moment with the machine
On the fifth of the month (or at another convenient time), these are the steps to follow:
A quick guide to using the washing machine in 3 steps
- Empty the washing machine drum.
- Run a ‘drum clean’ cycle or an intensive programme at a high temperature (60 degrees or above).
- Once you’ve finished, clean the rubber seals on the door with a cloth and leave the door open.
The ‘Machine Moment’ for the dishwasher in 3 steps
- Make sure the dishwasher is empty.
- Run a maintenance programme or an intensive high-temperature programme.
- After use, rinse the filter under the tap or in the dishwasher. Food residues often remain in the filter.
Make a note of the 5th of the month in your diary!
Here’s a tip to make sure you don’t forget your ‘Machine Moment’: set a reminder straight away in your (digital) diary. On the 5th of every month, for 5 minutes. That way, your dishwasher and washing machine will last 5 years longer. And that feels great!
A Moment with Machines in Europe
‘Machinemomentje’ is an initiative formed as part of the European project E6. The Municipality of Apeldoorn is one of the partners in this project.
Every year, more electrical and electronic appliances are thrown away. Through the E6 project, we aim to reduce the mountain of e-waste. That is why we are focusing on extending the lifespan of these appliances and encouraging people to opt for maintenance, reuse, repair and refurbishment.
We work together with universities, research institutes, waste collection companies and other local authorities to develop and test tools. Our partners are based in the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, France and Ireland. This enables the exchange of knowledge at European level.
Cooperation with the central government
The ‘Machinemomentje’ campaign is a collaboration with the central government.
Residents of the Zuidbroek neighbourhood in Apeldoorn took part in a survey carried out by the Behaviour Change Group for this campaign in the summer of 2026. The campaign focuses on behavioural change and shows that with just a little effort (5 minutes a month), you can achieve a great result: extending the lifespan of your dishwasher and washing machine by 5 years. That’s not only good for your wallet, but also for the planet.
In early October 2026, some residents of Zuidbroek received a parcel in their letterboxes as part of this campaign. This forms part of the behavioural research, and the results will be used to further develop this campaign.
The rest of Apeldoorn is being introduced to ‘Machinemomentje’ via social media, adverts and (digital) outdoor advertising.