1Causes of Dirty Washing Machines
Dirty or Damaged Fabric Lint Bag
The fabric lint bag is designed to prevent lint and fabric fibers from entering the water pipes, which can cause blockages. It also helps clean dirt and dust from clothes during washing.
If the bag is damaged or dirty, it cannot effectively filter out dirt and fabric fibers. As a result, they will stick to the clothes and the inner tub of the washing machine.
Lack of Cleaning of the Washing Machine
If you do not clean your washing machine regularly after prolonged use, bacteria and residual dirt from clothes can accumulate in the inner tub.
Subsequently, during subsequent washes, bacteria and dirt from the washing machine can stick back onto the clothes. This not only prevents the clothes from being cleaned but also makes them dirtier.
Residues from Clothing
Users often have the habit of putting objects in their pockets, such as tissues or receipts, and forget to remove them before washing. Once the machine is running, these residues can be crushed and broken into small pieces.
This is also one of the causes of a dirty washing machine, as these residues can stick to the inner tub and drain pipe and get stuck on the clothes when they are washed.
2How to Fix a Dirty Washing Machine
Cleaning the Inner Tub
Using Vinegar to Clean the Inner Tub
- Step 1: Remove all remaining clothes from the washing machine and drain the maximum amount of water. Then, pour about 300ml of vinegar into the machine and let it soak for 1 – 2 hours.
- Step 2: Use a to scrub the interior parts (water drain holes, inner tub, etc.).
- Step 3: Drain all the water in the machine, pour a small amount of into the drum, and wait for 1 – 2 hours more.
- Step 4: Run the machine normally following the standard washing procedure.
Using Specialized Detergent to Clean the Inner Tub
- Step 1: Drain hot water on the highest setting.
- Step 2: Add specialized detergent to the washing machine and let it soak for about 2 hours.
- Step 3: Run the washing machine following the standard washing procedure to ensure a thorough cleaning.
Using Baking Soda and Lemon to Clean the Inner Tub
- Step 1: Dissolve lemon juice and baking soda in water to create a mixture.
- Step 2: Use a to gently scrub the inner tub with the mixture. Leave it on for about 30 minutes.
- Step 3: Then, turn on the highest water draining mode to completely remove the stuck dirt.
Cleaning the Detergent and Softener Dispenser
The detergent and softener dispenser can easily accumulate dirt. If you do not regularly clean them, the washing machine can become dirty and prevent the clothes from being cleaned properly. It is best to clean them twice a week.
The simple cleaning steps are as follows:
- Step 1: Remove all clothes from the washing machine.
- Step 2: Drain water on the highest setting to clean any dirt inside, then use a soft cloth to dry it.
3Some Tips to Prevent Dirt Buildup
In order to keep your washing machine from accumulating dirt, in addition to regular cleaning, users should pay attention to the following:
Choose Suitable Laundry Detergent and Fabric Softener
Choosing unsuitable laundry detergent and fabric softener can easily lead to the clothes being covered in soap residue. If the soap you use clumps together or forms lumps, it may not dissolve properly. Therefore, it is best to use laundry detergent and fabric softener specifically designed for washing machines.
Use the Right Amount of Laundry Detergent, Fabric Softener, and Clothes According to the Manufacturer’s Instructions
When using laundry detergent or fabric softener, you need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and adjust them according to the amount of clothes. Using too much detergent can cause the water drain holes of the washing machine to get clogged. On average, you should use 1 – 2 caps of fabric softener for 8 – 10 pieces of clothes soaked for 15 minutes.
The amount of fabric softener can be increased or decreased depending on the fabric material. For thick fabric materials such as jeans, wool, coats, etc., you should use a larger amount, while for thin fabric materials, baby clothes, etc., you should use 1 cap is enough.
Check the Clothes Before Putting Them in the Washing Machine
To minimize the presence of debris, especially paper documents or receipts, in the pockets that can cause the washing machine to become dirty after each wash, you should check the clothes before putting them in the machine.
If not careful, there may still be pieces of paper left, and when put in, they will cause the shredded paper to stick all over the inner tub.
