Washing machines are one of the most essential appliances in our homes. They save time, energy, and effort by handling our laundry chores efficiently. We often wash clothes and shoes in the washing machine.
As the frequency increases, washing machines can accumulate dirt, grime, soap scum, and bacteria, which can affect their performance and even cause unpleasant odors. Cleaning your washing machine regularly is crucial to ensure it runs smoothly, efficiently, and hygienically.
In this blog post, we'll explore step-by-step tips for cleaning and maintaining your washing machine to keep it as clean as new.
Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine is Important
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Protecting Your Investment
A washing machine is a significant investment for any household. Proper maintenance and regular cleaning ensure that the machine lasts longer, thus protecting your investment. -
Ensuring Optimal Performance
A clean washing machine performs better. Residue from detergents, fabric softeners, and minerals from hard water can build up inside the machine, affecting its ability to clean clothes effectively.
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Preventing Bad Odors and Bacteria Buildup
Over time, washing machines can develop unpleasant odors due to the buildup of mold, mildew, and bacteria.
Clothes washed in this state are likely to cause skin allergies or even skin diseases when worn. Regular cleaning helps prevent these smells and keeps your machine hygienic.
Which parts of the washing machine are prone to dirt and grime?
Before cleaning your washing machine, you need to know where dirt and bacteria are most likely to hide.
- Door Boot Seal
The door boot seal of a drum washing machine is prone to accumulating dirt and grime. After the washing machine has finished washing and draining the clothes, the grooves on the door ring will retain dirty water and impurities. If you don't clean it regularly, it will easily get moldy.
- Filter
The washing machine's filter is mainly used to filter the fibers of clothes, and residues easily accumulate inside.
- Drain Plumbing
There will be a small amount of water in the drain, and a lot of fiber impurities will accumulate. If you don't clean it, the clothes will get dirtier and dirtier.
- Stirrer Blades
For the pulsator washing machine, if the surface of the agitator blade is not cleaned for a long time, the visible dirt and invisible bacteria on it will contaminate the clothes.
- Washing machine drum
The inner and outer drums of the washing machine are connected. Even if the outer drum is not dirty, a lot of dirt is accumulated in the inner drum.
Signs That Your Washing Machine Needs Cleaning
- Unpleasant Smells
One of the most common signs that your washing machine needs cleaning is a musty or foul odor. This smell can transfer to your clothes, making them smell less than fresh after washing.
- Visible Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew can form on various parts of the washing machine, such as the door seal, detergent drawer, and inside the drum. If you notice black or green spots, it’s time for a thorough cleaning.
- Poor Washing Performance
If your clothes come out of the wash still dirty, stained, or with detergent residue, it’s a clear indication that your machine isn’t cleaning properly due to buildup inside the machine.
- Leaks and Clogs
Water leaks or drainage problems can be caused by clogs in the filter, drain pump, or hoses. Regular cleaning helps prevent these issues and keeps your machine running smoothly.
The most popular types of washing machines are top-load and front-load models. In this article, we'll mainly explore these two types of washing machine cleaning methods.
Cleaning a Top-Loading Washing Machine
Top-loading washing machines have a vertical drum, and the lid opens upward.
Tools and Supplies Needed for Cleaning
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Microfiber cloth or sponge
- Toothbrush
- Dish soap
- Bleach (optional)
Step 1: Clean the Drum
- Run a Hot Water Cycle
Start by setting your washing machine to the hottest water setting. If your machine has a cleaning cycle, use that. Add four cups of white vinegar directly into the drum. Vinegar is a natural cleaner that helps break down grime and neutralizes odors.
- Pause and Soak
Let the machine fill with water and vinegar, then pause the cycle to let the mixture soak for about an hour. This helps to dissolve any detergent residue and kill mold and bacteria.
- Add Baking Soda
After an hour, add one cup of baking soda to the water. Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive that helps scrub away any remaining dirt. Resume the cycle and let it complete.
- Run a Rinse Cycle
After the vinegar and baking soda cycle, run an additional rinse cycle with just water to flush out any remaining cleaning agents.
Step 2: Clean the Dispensers
Detergent and Fabric Softener Dispensers
Remove these parts if possible and soak them in warm, soapy water. Use a toothbrush to scrub away any gunk or buildup.
Rinse thoroughly and dry before placing them back in the machine.
Step 3: Clean the Exterior
Wipe Down the Machine
Use a microfiber cloth or sponge dipped in a solution of warm water and mild dish soap to wipe down the exterior of the machine, including the control panel, lid, and knobs.
Step 4: Deep Clean the Agitator and Filter
- Agitator
If your top loader has an agitator, it's essential to clean it periodically. Lift the agitator (if possible) and soak it in a mixture of hot water and dish soap. Scrub thoroughly with a brush.
- Lint Filter
Some top-loading machines have a lint filter that should be cleaned regularly. Remove the filter, rinse it under running water, and scrub away any trapped debris with a soft brush.
Cleaning a Front-Loading Washing Machine
Front-loading washing machines are known for their efficiency and water-saving capabilities, but they are also more prone to mold and mildew due to their design.
Tools and Supplies Needed for Cleaning
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Microfiber cloth or sponge
- Toothbrush
- Dish soap
- Bleach (optional)
Step 1: Clean the Drum
- Run a Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar
Set your washer to the hottest water setting and the longest cycle. Add two cups of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser. Vinegar will help dissolve soap scum, mold, and mildew inside the drum.
- Add Baking Soda
After the vinegar cycle is complete, sprinkle half a cup of baking soda directly into the drum. Run another hot water cycle. This helps to deodorize and remove any remaining residues.
- Run a Rinse Cycle
Run an additional rinse cycle to ensure all cleaning agents are thoroughly flushed out.
Step 2: Clean the Rubber Gasket
- Inspect the Gasket
The rubber gasket around the door of a front-loading washer can trap water, soap scum, hair, and other debris. Gently pull back the gasket to inspect for mold, mildew, or trapped items.
- Clean the Gasket
Use a cloth or sponge dipped in vinegar or a mild bleach solution to wipe down the gasket thoroughly. Pay extra attention to folds where mold and debris are likely to accumulate. Use a toothbrush for stubborn spots.
Step 3: Clean the Dispensers
Detergent and Fabric Softener Dispensers
Remove and soak them in warm, soapy water. Scrub with a toothbrush to remove any residue or buildup. Rinse well and allow them to dry before reinstalling.
Step 4: Clean the Exterior and Door
- Wipe Down the Exterior
Use a microfiber cloth or sponge with a mild dish soap solution to clean the outside of the machine, including the control panel and door.
- Clean the Door
Pay special attention to the door and its seal, as they can harbor mold and mildew. Use vinegar or bleach solution and a sponge to clean these areas.
Step 5: Clean the Filter
Locate and Clean the Filter
Most front-loaders have a drain pump filter to catch lint and small items. This filter should be cleaned every few months to prevent clogs.
Check your machine’s manual for the location, then remove and clean the filter under running water, using a brush if needed.
Deep Cleaning and Descaling Your Washing Machine
When to Perform a Deep Clean
Deep cleaning your washing machine is necessary if:
- You haven’t cleaned your machine in over six months.
- You notice significant mold or mildew growth.
- There are persistent odors or stains.
Using Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets
- Purchase Cleaner Tablets: These are specially formulated tablets designed to clean and descale washing machines.
- Follow Instructions: Place a tablet in the drum and run a hot water cycle according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Descaling with Citric Acid
- Mix Citric Acid Solution: Mix one cup of citric acid with one quart of hot water.
- Run a Hot Water Cycle: Pour the solution into the drum and run a hot water cycle. This helps dissolve mineral deposits and descale the machine.
How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?
Cleaning frequency: once every three months.
Generally speaking, a newly bought washing machine should be cleaned after using it for half a year.
The washing machine should be cleaned every 2-3 months, especially in the summer, when the washing machine is used more frequently and more dirt accumulates inside.