Learn how to clean washing machine easily with our ultimate guide.
Find out the best way on how to clean washing machine and keep it running smoothly. Get ready for a fresher laundry experience.
Ever noticed that musty smell from your “clean” laundry? Or those mysterious dark spots inside your washing machine? Your trusted appliance might be harboring more dirt, mold, and bacteria than you think. how to clean washing machine.
While washing machines are designed to clean, they too need regular cleaning to maintain peak performance and ensure your clothes come out truly fresh.
Did you know that a dirty washing machine can actually make your clothes less clean with each wash? From soap scum buildup to mineral deposits, these hidden culprits can affect your machine’s efficiency and potentially damage your favorite garments.
how to clean washing machine. But don’t worry – keeping your washing machine spotless is simpler than you might think.
Let’s dive into a comprehensive guide that will walk you through everything from preparing for a deep clean to maintaining your machine’s pristine condition. We’ll cover the essential steps, problem areas to watch for, and smart maintenance tips that will extend your appliance’s life and keep your laundry genuinely clean.
Preparing for a Deep Clean
Gathering necessary cleaning supplies
Before starting the cleaning process, collect these essential items:
- White vinegar (1-2 cups)
- Baking soda
- Microfiber cloths
- Old toothbrush
- All-purpose cleaner
- Rubber gloves
- Bucket
- Hot water
Empty and inspect the washing machine
Perform these initial inspection steps:
- Remove any clothing or items from the drum
- Check the rubber seal for:
- Hidden objects
- Mold growth
- Debris accumulation
- Examine the detergent drawer for residue
Initial wipe down of visible areas
Start with a basic cleaning of accessible areas:
| Area | Cleaning Method | Tools Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Door | Damp wipe | Microfiber cloth |
| Seal | Gentle scrub | Toothbrush + cleaner |
| Dispenser | Remove and rinse | Hot water |
| Control panel | Light wipe | Damp cloth |
Focus on removing visible dirt, soap scum, and debris from these areas. Pay special attention to the rubber seal, as this is where most mold and mildew tend to accumulate. Use the old toothbrush to reach tight corners and crevices.
how to clean washing machine. Now that we have properly prepared the machine and gathered our supplies, let’s move on to thoroughly cleaning the drum, where most of the deep cleaning will take place.
Cleaning the Drum
Running an Empty Hot Water Cycle
Start the cleaning process by running your washing machine on the hottest water setting while empty. This initial cycle helps loosen buildup and prepares the drum for deeper cleaning. Add 2 cups of white vinegar to maximize the cleaning effect. how to clean washing machine.
Using Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets
Commercial cleaning tablets offer a powerful solution for maintaining your machine’s hygiene. Here’s how to use them effectively:
- Select appropriate tablet type
- Place tablet in empty drum
- Run longest hot water cycle
- Wipe drum after completion
Scrubbing Stubborn Stains
For persistent stains and residue, manual intervention is necessary:
- Use a soft microfiber cloth or sponge
- Create a paste with baking soda and water
- Focus on rubber seals and detergent drawer
- Avoid abrasive materials that might damage surfaces
Addressing Mold and Mildew Spots
Combat mold and mildew with this targeted approach:
| Treatment Method | Application | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Vinegar Solution | Spray directly | Monthly |
| Tea Tree Oil Mix | Apply with cloth | Bi-weekly |
| Bleach Solution | Use sparingly | Quarterly |
Leave the door open between washes to prevent moisture accumulation and future mold growth. Regular cleaning prevents odors and ensures optimal machine performance.
how to clean washing machine. With your drum now thoroughly cleaned, let’s look at how to maintain the external components of your washing machine.
Table of Contents
Maintaining External Components
Cleaning the Door Seal
The door seal (gasket) requires special attention as it’s prone to mold and mildew buildup. how to clean washing machine. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle, then:
- Gently pull back the rubber seal
- Spray the solution into all crevices
- Wipe with a microfiber cloth
- Dry thoroughly with a clean cloth to prevent mold growth
Wiping Down the Exterior
| Surface Type | Cleaning Solution | Tools Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic/Metal | Mild soap & water | Soft cloth |
| Control Panel | Damp cloth only | Microfiber cloth |
| Display Screen | Electronic cleaner | Special wipes |
how to clean washing machine. Keep your washing machine looking new by regularly wiping the exterior surfaces. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that could damage the finish.
Sanitizing the Detergent Drawer
The detergent drawer often accumulates soap residue and becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Follow these steps:
- Remove the drawer completely (consult manual if needed)
- Soak in hot water with mild detergent
- Scrub all compartments with an old toothbrush
- Pay special attention to corners and edges
- Rinse thoroughly and dry completely
- Spray with vinegar solution for extra sanitization
Now that the external components are pristine, let’s examine some common problem areas that require attention.
Addressing Problem Areas
Unclogging the Drain Filter
Locate the drain filter access panel (usually at the bottom front of your machine) and place a shallow container underneath. how to clean washing machine. Slowly unscrew the filter to catch any water, then remove debris like coins, buttons, or hair that may be trapped.
Cleaning the Water Inlet Filters
- Disconnect power and water supply
- Unscrew inlet hoses from the back
- Remove mesh filters using needle-nose pliers
- Rinse under running water to remove sediment
- Reinstall carefully to prevent cross-threading
Removing Limescale Buildup
Run an empty hot cycle with specialized descaling products or natural alternatives:
| Solution | Amount | Cycle Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| White Vinegar | 2 cups | Hot (60°C) |
| Citric Acid | 100g | Warm (40°C) |
| Commercial Descaler | As directed | As directed |
Dealing with Unpleasant Odors
Combat musty smells by:
- Leaving the door open between washes
- Running monthly maintenance washes at high temperature
- Cleaning the door seal and gasket regularly
- Using washing machine cleaner tablets quarterly
Fixing Drainage Issues
Check for these common drainage problems:
- Kinked or blocked drain hose
- Incorrect drain hose height
- Clogged pump filter
- Blocked main drain pipe
Now that we’ve addressed common problem areas, let’s look at some regular maintenance tips to prevent these issues from recurring.
Regular Maintenance Tips
Weekly Cleaning Habits
- Leave the door open after each wash to prevent mold growth
- Wipe down door seal and glass with microfiber cloth
- Remove lint from filter trap
- Empty pockets before washing to prevent debris buildup
Monthly Deep Cleaning Schedule
| Task | Purpose | Materials Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Empty drum clean cycle | Remove detergent residue | Hot water, vinegar |
| Clean detergent drawer | Prevent mold growth | Warm soapy water |
| Sanitize door seal | Eliminate bacteria | Cleaning solution |
| Check hoses | Prevent leaks | Visual inspection |
Preventing Future Buildup
- Use appropriate amount of detergent (excessive soap creates residue)
- Run hot water cycle monthly to dissolve mineral deposits
- Remove wet clothes promptly after cycle completion
- Consider using washing machine cleaner tablets quarterly
- Install water softener if you live in hard water area
Following these maintenance practices will significantly extend your washing machine’s lifespan and ensure optimal performance. Using the correct amount of detergent is particularly crucial – most people use too much, which leads to residue buildup.
Hard water areas may require more frequent cleaning cycles due to mineral deposits. Remember to periodically check and clean the drain pump filter, usually located behind a small panel at the bottom of the machine. These simple habits will help prevent costly repairs and ensure your clothes come out clean every time.
Now, let’s explore some common problem areas you might encounter and how to address them effectively.
Keeping your washing machine clean is essential for both its longevity and the cleanliness of your clothes. From deep cleaning the drum to maintaining external components and addressing common problem areas, a thorough cleaning routine ensures optimal performance and prevents unwanted odors and buildup.
how to clean washing machine. Make it a habit to perform basic maintenance tasks like wiping down seals, leaving the door open between washes, and running empty cycles with cleaning solutions monthly. By following these simple cleaning steps and preventive measures, you’ll extend your machine’s life and continue enjoying fresh, clean laundry for years to come.
