Despite being one of your home’s hardest working appliances, how often do you clean your washing machine?
Detergent, mold, and bacteria will build up on the inside of the appliance if it is not cleaned, and this can cause the appliance to work less efficiently and even make your clothes smell.
It is, therefore, essential to service your appliance to make it last long and serve you well.
Why You Need to Clean Your Washing Machine
A dirty washing machine can cause several problems, including dirty clothes having a musty odor, not cleaning your clothes properly, and even encouraging mold growth.
Soap residue and hard water staining can also lead to the clogging of different parts of the machine, thus making it less effective.
These problems can be prevented through routine cleaning of the washing machine to make the laundry fresh and healthy.
How to Clean Any Type of Washing Machine
How to Clean a Top-Load Washing Machine
1. Clean the Drum
First, you should fill the machine with hot water and put two cups of white vinegar into the machine.
This helps to break up soap scum, mineral deposits, and bacteria.
When the cycle is done, select another cycle with baking soda to get rid of any remaining odor or dirt buildup.
2. Scrub the Agitator and Drum Interior
You can use an old toothbrush or a soft bristle brush to clean the machine’s agitator and inner drum.
This is because there are some parts of the machine where dirt and detergent can easily stick.
3. Wipe Down the Lid and Exterior
To make the solution that will be used to wipe the lid, control panel, and exterior of the machine, put vinegar and water in equal proportions and wipe the areas to be cleaned with a microfiber cloth.
4. Clean the Detergent Dispenser
Fill the detergent and fabric softener dispensers with warm, soapy water and leave them to soak.
Scrub them to remove any residue, and then replace them in the machine.
5. Rinse with a Final Cycle
When all the parts are cleaned, you should run one more hot water cycle to wash out any other particles or cleaning solution still left in the machine.
How to Clean a Front-Load Washing Machine
1. Clean the Drum with Vinegar and Baking Soda
Place two cups of white vinegar in the detergent compartment and select the hot cycle.
After the cycle is done, put one cup of baking soda in the drum and select the hot cycle again.
This will help eliminate any bad odor and dissolve any debris that may be stuck.
2. Scrub the Rubber Gasket
Front-load machines have a seal made of rubber around the door, which seals in moisture, leading to the growth of mold and mildew.
Use a vinegar and water-soaked cloth to wipe it, then dry it thoroughly to stop future growth.
3. Clean the Detergent Drawer
Remove the detergent drawer and put it in a basin of warm, soapy water.
Use a toothbrush to remove the soap scum and the mold, then rinse the drawer and place it back in the machine.
4. Wipe Down the Door and Exterior
You should wipe the door and the control panel of the machine with a damp microfiber cloth.
If there are stubborn stains, vinegar and water will do the trick.
5. Run a Final Rinse Cycle
To make sure that all the cleaning products are gone, run a cycle with water only.
This helps to get rid of any odor or residue that may be left behind.
How to Prevent Future Buildup
Leave the Door Open After Each Use
Not allowing moisture to build up and form a breeding ground for mold and mildew is very important.
This is especially important for front-load machines as they have a door that can be left open after each cycle to allow the machine to dry.
Use the Right Detergent
HE (High Efficiency) detergents should be used in HE machines because they generate less suds and do not leave residues.
Proper dosage also reduces the formation of suds that may lead to buildup.
Clean the Machine Monthly
This means that you should clean your washing machine every month to make sure it is in the best condition and does not have a bad smell.
Remove Wet Clothes Promptly
Leaving wet clothes in the washer encourages mold and bacteria.
Removing the clothes from the machine and putting them in the dryer after washing them is advisable.
Check for Clogs in the Drain Hose
Stagnant water and bad smell can be caused by a blocked drain hose.
It is recommended to check and clean it from time to time to ensure that it does not block up.
Conclusion
It is very important to keep your washing machine clean to maintain its performance and prevent unpleasant odors.
By following these tips, you will be able to make sure that your appliance will last for many years.
If you are searching for a house cleaning service, consider NW Maids.
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