how to clean washing machine
Washing machines, despite their purpose, can accumulate dirt, grime, detergent residue, mould, and mildew over time, leading to unpleasant odours and less effective cleaning of your clothes. Regular cleaning is essential to keep your machine in good working order and your laundry fresh.
Here's a comprehensive guide on how to clean your washing machine:
How Often to Clean Your Washing Machine:
Monthly: It's generally recommended to clean your washing machine once a month, especially if you use it frequently or wash at lower temperatures.
Every 2-3 months: For less frequent use, every two to three months might suffice.
As needed: If you notice unpleasant odours, visible mould, excessive lint on clothes, or a decline in washing performance, clean it immediately.
After every few washes: Wipe down the door seals to prevent mould and bacteria buildup.
What You'll Need:
White vinegar (distilled white vinegar is preferred)
Baking soda (bicarbonate of soda)
Microfiber cloths or sponges
Old toothbrush or small brush
Warm water
Optional: Commercial washing machine cleaner, mild detergent, rubber gloves
Steps to Clean Your Washing Machine:
1. Prepare the Machine:
Empty the machine: Remove any clothes, detergent, or fabric softener from the drum and dispenser drawer.
Unplug (for some steps): While not always necessary for running cycles, unplugging is advised when cleaning components like the filter or exterior.
2. Clean the Detergent Drawer:
Remove the drawer: Most detergent drawers have a release button at the back that allows you to remove them.
Soak and scrub: Soak the drawer in warm, soapy water or a mixture of warm water and vinegar. Use an old toothbrush or small brush to scrub away any residue, mould, or gunk, paying special attention to the fabric softener compartment where buildup is common.
Rinse and dry: Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let it air dry completely before reinserting.
3. Clean the Drum (Interior):
Option 1: Vinegar and Baking Soda Method (Natural Clean):
Hot water cycle with vinegar: Pour 2 cups of white vinegar (or 4 cups for non-HE machines) directly into the detergent dispenser or drum. Select the hottest water setting and the longest cycle available. Allow the cycle to run completely. This helps break down mineral deposits, soap scum, and eliminate odours.
Hot water cycle with baking soda: After the vinegar cycle is complete, add 1/2 cup of baking soda directly into the drum. Run another hot water cycle. Baking soda helps to scour away stuck-on dirt and further deodorize the machine. For a deeper clean, you can pause this cycle after a few minutes of agitation and let the mixture soak for 30 minutes before resuming.
Option 2: Commercial Washing Machine Cleaner:
Follow the instructions on your chosen commercial cleaner (e.g., OxiClean, Affresh, Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner). These often involve adding the cleaner to the drum or dispenser and running a hot cycle.
Option 3: Bleach (Front-loaders):
For front-loading machines, some manufacturers recommend using liquid chlorine bleach. Pour bleach into the detergent compartment (not the bleach compartment, as it might sit there). Run the "self-clean" function if your washer has one, or the hottest and longest setting. Do not leave bleach sitting in your washer.
Wipe down after cycle: After the cycles are complete, wipe down the inside of the drum with a clean microfiber cloth to remove any loosened debris or residue.
4. Clean the Door Seal (Gasket - Front-loaders):
Inspect and wipe: The rubber seal around the door is a common spot for mould, mildew, and grime due to trapped moisture and detergent residue. Gently pull back the rubber flaps and use a cloth with warm soapy water, a vinegar spray (1:1 distilled white vinegar and water), or a diluted bleach solution to wipe down the entire seal.
Stubborn mould: For stubborn mould, soak a paper towel or rag in white vinegar or diluted bleach and stuff it into the seal crease, letting it sit for 20-30 minutes before wiping clean.
Dry thoroughly: Ensure the seal is completely dry after cleaning to prevent future mould growth.
5. Clean the Filter:
Locate the filter: The filter (or lint trap) is usually located at the bottom front of front-loading machines, behind a small access door. For top-loaders, it might be along the top rim of the tub, inside the center agitator, or at the end of the drainage hose. Consult your machine's manual if you can't find it.
Prepare for water: Have a shallow bowl and towels ready to catch any residual water when you open the filter.
Remove and clean: Carefully remove the filter. Dislodge any accumulated debris, lint, coins, or other small objects. You can use a small brush for crevices.
Soak and rinse: Soak the filter in hot water with a little dish soap or vinegar for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly under running water.
Clean the housing: Use a brush or cloth to clean the area where the filter was attached.
Reinstall: Reinstall the filter securely.
6. Clean the Exterior:
Wipe down: Use a damp cloth with mild detergent or a vinegar water solution to wipe down the control panel, buttons, door handle, and the top and sides of the machine.
Dry: Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that can damage the finish.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Washing Machine Clean:
Leave the door open: After each wash, leave the washing machine door (and dispenser drawer) slightly ajar for a few hours to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mould and musty smells.
Remove clothes promptly: Don't leave damp clothes in the drum after a cycle, as this encourages bacterial growth and can make both the clothes and the machine smell.
Use the right amount of detergent: Overdosing on detergent can lead to excessive residue buildup in the machine, contributing to mould and odours. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Use hot washes periodically: While cold washes save energy, occasionally running a hot wash (especially for towels or heavily soiled items) can help keep the machine cleaner and prevent bacteria buildup.
Check hoses and drum: Periodically inspect hoses for damage and the drum for any signs of corrosion.
Consider a water softener: In hard water areas, a water softener can help prevent limescale buildup in your machine.
By following these steps and tips, you can keep your washing machine clean, fresh, and functioning efficiently for years to come.
