Step By Step Guide To Washing Machine Cleaning Tips

Step By Step Guide To Cleaning Any Washing Machine

Washing Machines are really lifesavers in our daily life. We get our clothes all washed, clean, and even dried in a few simple steps. But, how long has it been since you last cleaned your washing machine? For most people, the answer will be a long time. Washing Machines are one household appliance that people often forget to clean. You might wipe the outside to keep the dust off it but do not clean the inside. Cleaning any washing is a simple task that you can do yourself if you have enough time. But, in terms of effort, it is time-consuming. You can get help from a professional cleaning service if you are not sure about it.

When should you clean your washing machine? People tend to think that since washing machines are cleaning clothes, it is clean inside the washing machines. So, they cannot find the reason why their clothes are smelling bad after a wash. It is one major sign that you need to clean your washing machine immediately. The residues of detergent or fabric softeners can build up, the inlet water pipe can be clogged or the lint filter is full. Cleaning any washing machine is easy and you can do it yourself with the help of some items in your house.

All The Cleaning Supplies You Need For Cleaning Any Washing Machine

• Bleaching Powder – We all know that bleach is a strong cleaning agent. You can use the power of bleach to get your washing machine squeaky clean. It is best to use non-chlorinated bleach to keep it natural.
• White Vinegar – This is a magical liquid that can be used to remove stains and build up scum, clean windows, and literally everywhere in your house. This is an all-natural solution to clean your washing machine.
• Cleaning Cloth – Take the all-purpose microfiber cleaning cloth. This is a must-have in every house. Grab one from the closet. Take a white cleaning cloth with it.
• A Tooth Brush – Use an old one or a spare that you keep.
• A washing machine cleaner – You can buy a washing machine cleaner from the store if you don’t want to use vinegar or bleach. This is optional and is an alternative.
• A spray bottle: This helps you to keep vinegar solution and spray clean stains or scum that are stuck.

A Word of Caution: Do not use vinegar and bleaching powder together. It won’t give you a double cleaning effect.

Cleaning A Top Loader Washing Machine

Top loaders have been around for a long time and are the most popular washing machine around. It is relatively easier to clean than front loaders.

• Step 1: Fill your machine with water to the brim and add two or three spoons of bleaching powder.
• Step 2: Start a warm cycle for 30 seconds to mix it all up and stop. Let it sit for 15 minutes so that the solution takes effect.
• Step 3: Start the machine cycle again and let the water drain.
• Step 4: When the machine draws in the water again, add ¾ cup of white vinegar into the water and let it run a complete cycle.
• Step 5: Keep the lid open for some time to allow air circulation after the wash. This will give a pleasant smell to the washing machine.
• Step 6: Dip the microfiber cloth in a diluted solution of white vinegar in water and wipe the surface of the washing machine.

Cleaning A Front Loader Washing Machine

Front loader washing machines are relatively new and are known for their power and efficiency. But, these can leave a damp smell on your clothes if they are not kept clean. Here are some easy steps to make cleaning any washing machine that is a front loader.

• Step 1: Remove the detergent dispensing panel, lint filter, and gasket. Use a dash of vinegar and a brush to scrub the detergent residue.
• Step 2: Clean the door. Mold and mildew can grow on the front loader. Remove the rubber seal from the door and clean it thoroughly.
• Step 3: Spray the white vinegar solution on the door and inside the machine, on the drum, and leave it for a while.
• Step 4: Pour some white vinegar solution through the detergent dispenser. ¾ a cup will be enough. You can use non-chlorinated bleach instead if you want to skip step 3. Fill the machine with water.
• Step 5: Start a wash cycle and set the temperature to the hottest wash you have. Use ‘white clothes cleaning’ or ‘stain removing’ cycle with extra rinse option if possible.
• Step 6: Stop or pause the wash in between and let it sit for 10 minutes. Start the wash cycle again and this time let it complete the wash.
• Step 7: Once the wash is done, keep the door slightly open for some time.
• Step 8: Wipe the surface of the washing machine with a microfiber cloth dipped in the vinegar solution and wrung.

Tips To Keep Your Washing Machine Clean

There is no secret to keeping a washing machine clean. But, you can follow these tips to keep it fresh and clean.

• Clean your washing machine once a month.
• Use good quality detergents and fabric fresheners so that it doesn’t damage your washing machine.
• Take your clothes immediately after the wash cycle is complete.
• Leave the door of the washing machine slightly open for a while after every wash.
• Do not let the inlet water pipe get clogged. Make sure that you unclog and clean it immediately if it gets clogged.
• Make sure that there are no small items like pins or paper clips stuck in the gasket if you use a front loader.

Conclusion

It is easy to clean a washing machine but it is a time-consuming job. Make sure that you use a glove when cleaning and take precautions when cleaning electronic devices. You can hire a professional house cleaner who knows the perfect way for cleaning any washing machine efficiently.