Washing machines are an essential appliance in every household, but they can also be one of the most neglected appliances when it comes to cleaning. Over time, washing machines can accumulate dirt, grime, and mildew, which can lead to unpleasant odors and even affect the performance of the machine. In this article, we will guide you on how to clean the inside of your washing machine and keep it running efficiently.
1. Why Do You Need to Clean Your Washing Machine?
It is essential to clean your washing machine regularly to avoid the buildup of dirt, grime, and mold. Over time, the grime can build up in the drum, hoses, and other parts of the machine, leading to unpleasant odors and even affecting the performance of the machine. Cleaning your washing machine will also help to remove any detergent residue, which can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
2. What You Will Need to Clean Your Washing Machine
Before you start cleaning your washing machine, you will need the following items:
- Vinegar
- Baking soda
- Bleach (optional)
- A scrub brush
- A clean cloth
3. How to Clean the Inside of Your Washing Machine
Follow these steps to clean the inside of your washing machine:
- Fill the washing machine with hot water until it reaches the maximum capacity.
- Add two cups of vinegar to the water and run the machine on the hottest and longest cycle.
- Once the cycle is complete, add half a cup of baking soda to the drum and run the machine on the hottest and longest cycle again.
- If there are any stubborn stains, use a scrub brush to scrub the inside of the drum and hoses.
- Wipe the inside of the machine and the drum with a clean cloth to remove any residue.
- If you have a front-loading machine, clean the rubber seal around the door with a cloth and vinegar solution to remove any mold or mildew.
- Leave the door open for a few hours to allow the inside of the machine to dry completely.
4. How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?
You should clean your washing machine at least once every three months to keep it running efficiently and avoid the buildup of dirt, grime, and mold. However, if you have a large family or use your washing machine frequently, you may need to clean it more often.
5. Other Tips to Keep Your Washing Machine Clean
Here are some additional tips to keep your washing machine clean:
- Use the recommended amount of detergent and fabric softener to avoid the buildup of residue.
- Remove clothes from the washing machine as soon as the cycle is complete to avoid the buildup of moisture.
- Leave the door open after each use to allow the inside of the machine to dry completely.
- Clean the lint filter after each use to avoid the buildup of lint and debris.
- Run a hot cycle with bleach once a month to kill any bacteria and remove any stubborn stains.
Conclusion
Cleaning the inside of your washing machine is essential to keep it running efficiently and avoid the buildup of dirt, grime, and mold. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can keep your washing machine clean and running smoothly for years to come.