Introduction
Having a clean washing machine is essential for maintaining hygienic laundry practices. Unfortunately, many of us don’t take the time to regularly clean our machines—resulting in a buildup of dirt and grime that can cause odors and even damage the appliance. Regular cleaning will not only help keep your washer looking its best, but it will also help it work more efficiently and last longer.
In this article, we’ll explore how to clean your washing machine. We’ll cover steps for removing and cleaning the drum, using vinegar and detergent to clean, running a hot water cycle with detergent, regularly cleaning the detergent dispenser, cleaning the gasket and door of the washer, cleaning the exterior of the washing machine, and running an empty cycle with baking soda. By following these steps, you can ensure your washing machine is always clean and functioning properly.
Remove and Clean the Washer Drum
The first step in cleaning your washing machine is to remove and clean the drum. To do this, you’ll need to unplug the machine and turn off the water supply. Then, use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the drum in place. Once the screws are removed, lift the drum out of the machine and set it aside.
To clean the drum, use a soft cloth or sponge and a mild detergent. Scrub the drum thoroughly, paying special attention to any stubborn stains. Rinse the drum with warm water and let it air dry before putting it back into the machine.
Use Vinegar to Clean Your Washing Machine
Using vinegar to clean your washing machine is a great way to get rid of odors and build up. Start by filling the machine with hot water and adding two cups of white vinegar. Let the machine run on the highest setting for one full cycle. When the cycle is complete, turn off the machine and let the vinegar solution sit for an hour before draining the water.
The vinegar will help break down dirt, grime, and bacteria while eliminating odors. It’s also a natural disinfectant, so it will help keep the machine clean and fresh.
Run a Hot Water Cycle with Detergent
After using vinegar to clean your machine, it’s important to run a hot water cycle with detergent to remove any remaining residue. Fill the machine with hot water, add a scoop of detergent, and run the cycle on the highest setting. This will help ensure that all traces of the vinegar are gone and that the machine is clean and ready for use.
Running a hot water cycle with detergent will also help remove any built-up soap scum or residue from previous loads of laundry. This will help keep your clothes cleaner and fresher.
Regularly Clean the Detergent Dispenser
Another important step in keeping your washing machine clean is to regularly clean the detergent dispenser. Over time, the dispenser can become clogged with soap scum and residue, which can lead to poor performance and unpleasant odors. To clean the dispenser, simply unscrew it from the washer and rinse it with hot water. If necessary, use a small brush to scrub away any stubborn residue.
Regularly cleaning your detergent dispenser will help keep your machine running smoothly and reduce the risk of clogs and other issues.
Clean the Gasket and Door of the Washer
The gasket and door of your washing machine should also be cleaned regularly. Start by wiping down the gasket with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Then, spray the gasket and door with a disinfectant cleaner and wipe it down with a soft cloth. Finally, use a cotton swab to clean any hard-to-reach areas.
Cleaning the gasket and door of your washer will help prevent odors and mold growth, as well as keep the machine running at peak efficiency.
Clean the Exterior of the Washing Machine
The exterior of your washing machine should also be cleaned regularly. Start by wiping down the outside of the machine with a damp cloth. For tougher spots, use a mild detergent and a soft brush. Be sure to avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the finish of the machine.
Regularly cleaning the exterior of your washer will help keep it looking its best and help extend its life.
Run an Empty Cycle with Baking Soda
Once you’ve finished cleaning your washing machine, it’s a good idea to run an empty cycle with baking soda. This will help neutralize any lingering odors and leave your machine smelling fresh. To do this, fill the machine with hot water, add one cup of baking soda, and run the cycle on the highest setting. When the cycle is complete, turn off the machine and let the baking soda solution sit for an hour before draining the water.
Running an empty cycle with baking soda will help keep your machine smelling fresh and clean.
Conclusion
Cleaning your washing machine is essential for ensuring hygienic laundry practices and keeping your appliance in top condition. In this article, we explored how to clean your washing machine. We covered steps for removing and cleaning the drum, using vinegar and detergent to clean, running a hot water cycle with detergent, regularly cleaning the detergent dispenser, cleaning the gasket and door of the washer, cleaning the exterior of the washing machine, and running an empty cycle with baking soda. By following these steps, you can ensure your washing machine is always clean and functioning properly.
We hope this article has been helpful in teaching you how to clean your washing machine. With regular cleaning and maintenance, you can keep your machine looking and working its best for years to come.
