How to clean washing machines?

Washing machines are one of the most crucial household appliances. However, people often forget to clean its residue and dirt, which leads to a decrease in its efficiency. Over time, washing machines accumulate a lot of grime, dirt and detergent. This not only affects its performance but also your clothes. Cleaning your washing machine regularly ensures the quality of your laundry cycles and maintains its longevity.

See also: How to clean a garbage disposal?

 

Steps to clean washing machines

If your washing machine entails a self-clean option, make sure you choose that cycle. Keep in mind the manufacturer’s instructions and follow them diligently. In case you don’t have that, here’s the guide for you.

Step 1: Use vinegar

 

While following this step, make sure to use white vinegar. Now, run a hot, empty cycle with two cups of white vinegar. Both hot water and vinegar would ensure bacteria prevention without harming your washing machine.

Step 2: Scrubbing

Take a bucket and mix 1/4 cup of vinegar with warm water. Now, with a toothbrush and sponge, clean inside the washing machine using the vinegar mixture. Make sure to clean spaces like soap dispensers, door openings, and the inside of the door. If you have a removable soap dispenser, then remove that out and soak it in the mixture before scrubbing.

Step 3: Clean exteriors

 

Wipe down your exteriors using vinegar and water mixture or a damp cloth.

Step 4: Run an empty cycle again

Run an empty cycle back again, but this time without vinegar or detergent. If need be, add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the drum. It will remove the remaining buildup from the previous cycle. Once done, wipe out everything inside the drum using a cloth.

 

Steps to clean a front-loading washing machine

Front-loading machines often face smelly laundry problems. While it is important to know that the reason behind this is usually the rubber seal or gasket, it is also necessary to know the steps to get rid of it. Soaps and moisture end up making a lot of space for moulds and, hence, vital to keep the washing machine clean.

 

 

Step 1: Clean around the door area

Spray around the door area with white vinegar in order to remove grime. Let it stay for a minute with the open door. Now, clean it with a microfiber cloth.

Step 2: Deep clean 

You can also use a diluted bleach solution to wipe the area for a better and deeper clean. To prevent mildew from growing, allow the moisture to dry with the door open for two to three hours.

 

Steps to clean a top-loading washing machine

Step 1: Vinegar soak

For top-loading washing machines, pause the machine during the initial cycle. Fill the tub and then agitate. Now, pause it to let the vinegar soak.

Step 2: Clean hard spots

Take a toothbrush or sponge to scrub hard spots under the rim and around the lid.

Step 3: Clean the exterior

Top-loading machines collect more dust and residue than the front-loading machines. Therefore, in order to eliminate dust splatters, make sure to wipe out the top of the machine. Do it using a microfibre cloth and white vinegar solution.

 

How to clean washing machine filter?

• Locate the filter, usually found in the centre agitator or the top lip of the drum. 
• If you can’t find it, check behind a trap door on the machine’s exterior, by the water pump, or at the end of the drainage hose. 
• Use a cleaning cloth to wipe down the filter and its housing. 
• If you notice any buildup on the filter, soak it in hot water with one tablespoon of laundry detergent for about 10 minutes. 
• Gently scrub it with a soft-bristle toothbrush. 
• Replace the filter and run a quick wash cycle. 
• Don’t forget to clean the filter whenever you notice a buildup of lint or dirt deposits on your clothes.

 

Tips to prevent a smelly washing machine

Apart from monthly cleaning, there are certain tips that can help you avoid smelly washing machines at all times.

• Take your clothes out once the cleaning is done. This prevents machines from smelling bad. 
• If you see any pet hair or dirt in the machine, make sure to clean it right away. You can also use a soft brush to clean it out. 
• Use a wet cloth to wipe out the handle, buttons, and other areas of the machine. It will stop growing mould and germs. 

 

When to seek professional help? 

Frequent smell

If you feel that your washing machine smells quite frequently, you should get it checked by a professional. A professional can help you with serious issues like clogging and sewage problems.

Leaks

If your washing machine has leaking issues, it is important to address it. Leaks can not only damage your floor but also walls and other areas of your home. Thus, calling a professional is recommended.

Warranty problems

If your washing machine is under warranty, then you should check your terms and conditions. You may need professional help in some cases while basic tasks don’t require such intervention. If you are unable to clean your washing machine yourself, it is better to call a professional so that they can inspect and ensure its efficiency. 

 

FAQs

Is it safe to use baking soda for cleaning the washing machine?

Baking soda or bleach is mostly safe for washing machines. However, loading clothes only after running a rinse cycle is recommended.

How often do I need to clean my washing machine?

You should clean your washing once a week to avoid smell. You should run a clean cycle with no clothes and detergent inside.

How to get rid of the washing machine smell?

Pour baking soda and water into the soap dispenser and add white vinegar into the empty machine. Now, run a hot cycle.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com