Welcome to the guide on how to clean a washing machine! We all rely on our washing machines to keep our clothes fresh and clean, but did you know that they need a little TLC too?
The washing machine is most commonly used in every home. It is very significant to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in the home. Cleaning the washing machine is very necessary because the accumulation of dirt, germs, and detergent residues generates layers of bacteria and mold growth, said a washing machine repair specialist at FAJ Professional.
Regular cleaning will save your washing machine from breakdowns, prolong its lifespan, boost its performance, and save you from costly washing machine repairs.
In this blog article, we will explore the step-by-step process, expert tips, and best practices to clean your washing machine.
The Best Way to Clean a Washing Machine
To clean a washing machine, the following material and equipment is needed.
- Hot water
- Detergent
- Bleach
- Vinegar
- Flexible long rod brush
- Soft stain removal brush
- Cleaning tablets
- Hand safety gloves
Let’s move towards the process of washing machine cleaning!
Step 1 - Preparing for Cleaning
Unplug your washing machine and remove any visible thing placed inside the washing machine. Prepare a solution of equal parts using water and vinegar. This is the most powerful cleaning agent to clean and sanitize the interior!
Step 2 - Pour Hot Water
Pour hot water in your washing machine for 5 minutes to make the inner surface soft. This can help soften any buildup or residue on the inner surface of the washer.
Step 3 - Mix the Solution
Mix the water-vinegar solutions which you prepared in the hot water and run a cycle. It will kill the bacterias and reduce the bad smell.
Step 4 - Interior Cleaning
Now, add washing machine cleaning tablets in the hot water. Make sure the tablets are fully mixed in the hot water. Take a long flexible rod brush to break the hard surface of stains, or residue.
Step 5 - Exterior Cleaning
Make a solution of detergent and bleach to remove the stain from the outer surface. You can use a soft stain removal brush or a clean piece of cloth.
Step 6 - Run a Cycle
Lastly, run a cycle with hot water to clean all the inner areas of the washing machine.
How to Clean a Front Load Washing Machine
Follow these steps to clean a front load washing machine.
Step 1 - Run a Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar
Begin by pouring vinegar into the detergent dispenser drawer or directly into the drum. Run a hot water cycle without any clothes in the machine. The vinegar helps to remove any soap scum, residue, or mildew inside the washing machine.
Step 2 - Clean the Detergent Dispenser Drawer and Door Seal
Clean the detergent dispenser drawer by removing it and soaking into warm, soapy water. Use a clean cloth or sponge to clean the door seal to remove any dirt, mold, or debris accumulated on the door seal.
Step 3 - Clean the Filter and Drainage System
Locate the filter, usually found at the bottom front of the machine. Remove the filter and clean it under running water. Use a long flexible rod to clean the drainage system.
Step 4 - Clean the Outer Surface
Use a clean cloth or soft sustain removal brush to clean the outer surface, including control panel and buttons. For stubborn stains, you can use a mild detergent or a specialized cleaner recommended to washing machine care.
How to Clean a Top Load Washing Machine
Here is the step by step guide to clean your top load washing machine.
1 - Prepare the Machine
Empty the washing machine and remove any removable parts like the detergent dispenser.
2 - Clean the Drum
Fill the machine with hot water and add 2 cups of white vinegar. Run a long, hot cycle to clean the drum.
3 - Wipe Down Exterior
While the machine is running, wipe down the exterior with hot soapy water.
4 - Deodorize and Rinse
After the cycle, sprinkle baking soda in the drum and run a short cycle with hot water to deodorize and rinse.
5 - Dry and Reassemble
Leave the lid open to air dry, then reassemble any removable parts.
How to Clean a Smelly Washing Machine?
The smelly machine can be very painful while washing the clothes. But don’t worry, here is the perfect solution to get rid of it. Take one cup of vinegar into a spray bottle and add some drops of lemon juice. Run one cycle of hot water. Now, spray the lemon-vinegar mixture on the inner surface of the machine. Let it sit for 10 minutes. This mixture is super powerful and makes your washing machine smelling fresh and clean again.
How to Clean Residue and Stains from Washing Machine
For cleaning residue and stains from washing machines, start emptying them and preparing the cleaning solution of vinegar and water. Apply this cleaning solution to all parts of the machine and scrub it with soft brushes or cloth. Run a hot water cycle and finish it and dry it with a piece of cloth. Keeping the door open for some time for drying.
Tips to Maintain a Clean Washing Machine
Following are key tips to maintain a clean washing machine.
- Regular cleaning routine: Cleaning on a daily basis is helpful to maintain and little effort is required for the washing machine.
- Dispenser cleaning: Cleaning the dispenser eliminates the germ and smell of the interior of the washing machine.
- Wipe down the door seal: Wiping the door seal is helpful in cleaning
- Clean the filter: Cleaning the filter removes all the dust mold
- High-quality Cleaning ingredients: Always use high quality cleaning ingredients to prevent damage to the interior surface and it provides help in cleaning.