How To Clean Washing Machine

How To / By / June 25, 2024

How to Clean Your Washing Machine: A Comprehensive Guide

Cleaning your washing machine is an essential task that can improve its performance, hygiene, and overall lifespan. Just like any other appliance, a dirty washing machine can harbor mold, mildew, and bacterai growth which may affect the quality of your clothes. In this article, we will explore the importance of cleaning your washing machine and provide step-by-step instructions on how to do it effectively.

Why Clean Your Washing Machine?

Before diving into the steps on how to clean your washing machine, let’s take a look at why you should be doing so in the first place.

  1. Remove Build-Up: A dirty washing machine can accumulate detergent residue, fabric softener sheets, and other debris which can reduce its effectiveness over time.
  2. Improve Hygiene: Bacteria growth on your washing machine can transfer to your clothes when you do laundry, causing unpleasant odors and potential skin irritation.
  3. Extend Lifespan: Cleaning the gaskets and seals regularly prevents them from drying out or becoming worn out, reducing the risk of leaks or breakages.

Materials Needed:

  1. One cup white vinegar
  2. One tablespoon baking soda
  3. Hot water (at least 90°F/32°C)
  4. A clean cloth towel

Cleaning Your Washing Machine: Steps and Tips

Step 1: Remove Lint and Debris (Every Month)

Start by removing any loose lint, debris, or coins from the washing machine’s interior.

  • Leave the top lid open to access the inside of the washer.
  • Use a soft brush or cloth to sweep away any visible dirt, hair clippings, or fabric scraps.
  • Check for and remove any coins that may have fallen into the drum. It’s not uncommon for lost change to end up in your washing machine!

Step 2: Run Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar (Every Month)

To dissolve mineral deposits and tackle mold growth:

  1. Pour one cup of white vinegar into the washing machine’s detergent dispenser.
  2. Set the washer to hot water cycle (90°F/32°C).
  3. Start a normal wash without adding any clothes or soap.

The acidity in the vinegar will relieve break down grease, remove odors, and mineral deposits.

Step 3: Run Hot Water Cycle with Baking Soda (Every 1-2 Months)

To further eliminate mold growth:

  1. Pour one tablespoon of baking soda into the washing machine’s detergent dispenser.
  2. Set the washer to hot water cycle (90°F/32°C).
  3. Start a normal wash without adding any clothes or soap.

The alkalinity in the baking soda will help neutralize acidity, remove grease residue and mineral buildup.

Step 4: Wipe Down Exteriors

  1. Use a clean cloth towel soaked with hot water to wipe down all surfaces of the washing machine.
  2. Start from top to bottom, making sure not to spread any dirt or debris around the washer.
  3. Pay particular attention to areas that can easily become dirty such as door seals and gaskets.

Tips for Effective Cleaning

  • Always check your washing machine’s user manual before cleaning it for specific instructions.
  • Run an extra hot water cycle with either vinegar or baking soda every 2-4 months to maintain its cleanliness and performance.
  • Check the detergent dispenser regularly, emptying any buildup that may cause clogs in your washer. Clean the dispenser by filling it with white vinegar, letting it sit overnight, then rinsing thoroughly.

Conclusion

In this comprehensive guide on how to clean your washing machine, you learned not only why cleaning is essential but also steps and tips for an effective job done every time! From removing lint and debris to running hot water cycles with vinegar and baking soda, following these procedures can ensure a fresh, clean smell from the first use after cleaning.

Remember: Regular maintenance of your washing machine will prolong its life while keeping it free from mold growth, unpleasant odors, or clogs. Take the initiative today and start giving your laundry equipment the care it deserves!

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