Although your washing machine puts a lot of effort into keeping your clothes clean, how frequently do you clean the machine itself? Many homeowners neglect this crucial chore, which over time can result in mold growth, soap scum, persistent smells, and even performance problems.
In addition to ensuring that your laundry smells fresh, a clean washing machine increases washing efficiency and prolongs the appliance’s lifespan. Regardless of whether you have a front-loading, top-loading, or high-efficiency washing machine, we’ll walk you through the entire process of cleaning it in this comprehensive guide.
📌 Reasons to Clean Your Washing Machine Frequently
Let’s first examine why this is important before moving on to the detailed procedure:
Avoids odors, mold, and mildew
enhances the effectiveness of washing
eliminates mineral accumulation and detergent.
prolongs the life of your washer
maintains the freshness and hygiene of your laundry
Experts advise cleaning your washer at least once a month, particularly if you use it frequently or live in a humid area.
How to Clean a Washing Machine’s Interior
Over time, fabric softener, detergent residue, and dirt are accumulated inside your washer. Here’s how to give it a thorough cleaning:
🥤 Materials Required:
Distilled white vinegar
Baking soda
A gentle microfiber cloth
An outdated toothbrush
Warm water
Commercial washing machine cleaner tablets, such as Affresh or Tide Washing Machine Cleaner, are optional.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cleaning a Top-Load Washing Machine
Empty the washer.
Before starting, make sure the machine is empty.
Pour hot water into the drum.
Fill your machine with hot water and set it to the maximum load setting.
Add the baking soda and vinegar.
Fill the drum with four cups of white vinegar.
To mix, let it stir for one minute.
To the water, add one cup of baking soda.
After closing the lid, give the solution an hour to soak.
Clean the Internal Components
Wipe the agitator, lid, and area surrounding the drum with a cloth dipped in the vinegar-water mixture while it is soaking.
Execute the Longest Cycle
Use the washer’s hottest, longest cycle after the soak.
Dry off the drum.
Make use of a dry, clean microfiber
📌 A Comprehensive Guide to Cleaning a Front-Load Washing Machine
Empty the washer.
Take off the clothes and detergent pods.
Clean the rubber gasket.
Use a vinegar-dipped cloth to clean the rubber door seal.
To get rid of any mold, lint, or hair that has become lodged inside, use an old toothbrush.
Include the cleaning solution.
Fill the detergent dispenser with two cups of white vinegar.
Pour half a cup of baking soda straight into the drum.
Start a Hot Cycle
Run the machine empty and choose the longest, hottest wash cycle.
Clean the door and drum.
Clean the door and the inside of the drum after the cycle.
Empty the detergent drawer.
After removing the dispenser tray, give it a good soak in warm water and use a toothbrush to clean it.
🧹 Cleaning a Washing Machine’s Exterior
Maintaining a clean exterior keeps dirt, dust, and detergent spills from affecting the control panel and look of your washer.
📌 Exterior Cleaning (Step-by-Step
Unplug the device.
Always unplug the washer before cleaning for safety.
Dust and Clean
Wipe the top, sides, and control panel with a moist microfiber cloth.
Address Difficult Areas
Use a warm water and mild dish soap solution to remove stubborn detergent or dirt.
Dry the Surface
Wipe everything clean and streak-free with a dry microfiber cloth.
🛑 Cleaning the Filter in the Washing Machine
Lint, coins, and small objects are collected by the drain pump filter found in many washers, particularly front-loading models.
Advice: To find out the precise location of your machine’s filter, consult your user manual.
Cleaning the Filter (Step-by-Step)
Find the Filter
typically located behind a tiny panel on the machine’s front lower section.
Get Ready for Water Drainage
Since some water will leak out, place a towel and shallow tray underneath.
Take Out and Clean
To remove the filter, rotate it counterclockwise. If required, clean it with a toothbrush and rinse under running water.
Put the filter back in place.
Close the panel after firmly screwing the filter back in.
🌸 How to Keep Your Washing Machine Odor-Free
After every wash, leave the door open to allow the drum and gasket to air dry.
As soon as the cycles are finished, remove the wet laundry.
After every use, dry the gasket and drum.
To lessen soap residue, use high-efficiency (HE) detergent in HE machines.
Use vinegar or a commercial washer cleaner on a monthly basis.
🔧 Expert Advice on Maintaining a Clean Washing Machine for Longer
Avoid overloading your machine as this can cause stress on the motor and leave behind residue from the detergent.
Make sure to use the appropriate detergent type and quantity.
Always clean up spills of detergent right away.
Check hoses frequently for obstructions or leaks.
To avoid mineral accumulation in hard water areas, think about installing a water softener.
📅 How Frequently Should Your Washing Machine Be Cleaned?
Frequency of Cleaning Tasks: Inside drum cleaningEvery four weeks
Weekly exterior cleaning
Cleaning of detergent dispensersEvery two to four weeks
Cleaning the filter every one to two months
Check the door seal and gasket every week.
Concluding Remarks
Your washing machine is a household workhorse, but it requires routine maintenance to remain hygienic and effective. You can prolong the life of your washing machine, improve wash quality, prevent odors, and save money on repairs by following these easy steps to clean it from the inside out.
Following these tips will help you avoid future headaches and save money, regardless of whether your home in the USA has a front-loading, top-loading, or smart WiFi-enabled washer.