Washing machines are a familiar household appliance found in almost every home. Thanks to washing machines, people can save a lot of time and have more opportunities to rest. However, after a period of use, if the washing machine is not cleaned carefully, it can easily break down.
When this happens, the dirt accumulated in the washing tub can stick to clothes during the washing process, leaving them not as clean as desired. Moreover, the moist environment inside the machine creates favorable conditions for bacteria to grow, affecting the health of users.
Even though many people understand this, they still hesitate to clean their washing machines because they think it is complicated and time-consuming. However, there are simple and easy ways to clean a washing machine that anyone can apply.
Remove the filter core of the machine
Inside the washing machine is a filter core that traps lint and dirt. Over time, this filter core will become full and need to be cleaned out, or else the dirt will stick to the clothes during the wash cycle.
Therefore, you should periodically remove the filter core, get rid of any accumulated dirt inside, and use a brush to clean it if necessary. This ensures that your machine operates effectively.
Clean the detergent and fabric softener trays
The detergent and fabric softener trays also need regular cleaning as dirt and soap scum can build up, forming an annoying layer of residue. Remove these trays and use a brush to scrub away any remaining detergent or fabric softener residue.
Clean the exterior of the machine
After each use, unplug the machine and use a cloth to wipe down the external parts of the washing machine. Pay special attention to cleaning the lid and rubber gasket on the door, especially for front-loading machines. This area is prone to water and dirt buildup, which, if not cleaned regularly, can lead to the growth of mold and an unpleasant odor.
Clean the washing tub
The washing tub can be challenging to remove, and doing so incorrectly can cause damage. Instead, you can clean the washing tub without removing it by using vinegar or baking soda.
First, mix a box of baking soda with a bucket of warm water and pour this solution into the washing machine. If your machine has a warm-water washing mode, you can directly add baking soda powder and choose the rinse mode. Once the tub is filled with water, pause the cycle and let it sit for 30-60 minutes.
Then, select the normal wash cycle or the machine cleaning mode (if available) and let the machine run. While it’s operating, mix some baking soda with water to form a paste. When the machine has drained the water, use a soft cloth dipped in this paste to clean hard-to-reach areas.
If you don’t have baking soda, you can substitute it with vinegar, following a similar process. If you don’t have either vinegar or baking soda, you can use laundry detergent to clean the washing tub.