Are you dependent on your washing machine for your daily chores? Wondering how to get rid of stubborn stains that may still be clinging to your clothes even after a wash? Here are some steps to clean your washing machine at home without the need to call a technician:
Why is it important to clean your washing machine regularly?
A washing machine is an essential appliance in every household. If not properly cleaned, it can cause various issues such as ineffective cleaning of clothes, bacterial contamination, mold growth, unpleasant odors, and the accumulation of dirt and debris from clothes, which can affect the drainage system and the efficiency and lifespan of the machine.
Regular cleaning of your washing machine can help prevent these problems and provide several benefits:
1. Extends the lifespan of the machine and improves its performance.
2. Eliminates odors, bacteria, residue, and dirt from inside the machine.
3. Ensures effective cleaning of clothes.
4. Reduces the risk of machine breakdowns and damage.
A dirty washing machine can lead to various problems
Steps to clean your washing machine at home
Cleaning with baking soda
Many people only clean the exterior of their washing machines, but the wet drum is where bacteria and mold can easily accumulate and thrive. Baking soda contains natural cleaning agents that can eliminate bacteria. Using a damp cloth alone will not effectively clean the drum.
Start by pouring warm water into the washing machine along with 2-3 cups of vinegar and 250 grams of baking soda. Let it soak for about 30 minutes, allowing the baking soda to dissolve in the water. Start the longest wash cycle. After that, use a dry cloth to wipe the inside of the machine. This cleaning method can be applied to both top-loading and front-loading machines.
In addition, you can mix baking soda with a little water to create a paste, then dip a damp cloth into the mixture and scrub any stubborn stains on the surface of the machine.
Cleaning the drum with vinegar
You can clean the drum of your washing machine with lemon or vinegar – simple ingredients that are available in any kitchen. Vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that can effectively clean your washing machine.
For top-loading machines, first unplug the machine and empty the drum (without clothes). Choose a hot wash cycle for cleaning. Once the machine is filled with water, add 3-4 cups of white vinegar to the machine. For front-loading machines, pour the vinegar into the drum before starting the wash cycle.
Let the machine soak for about 30 minutes to 1 hour to remove all remaining dirt and debris. Start the machine with the longest wash time. After the machine has finished washing, use a clean cloth soaked in vinegar to wipe the machine once again. Open the door of the machine to allow the interior to dry completely.
Cleaning other parts of the washing machine
In addition to cleaning the exterior and drum of the machine, you should also clean other parts of the washing machine, such as:
– Detergent and fabric softener trays: Regularly clean and soak the trays in a detergent solution, rinse with hot water, and then air dry.
– Rubber seal in front-loading machines: This is an area where bacteria often accumulate. You can use a damp cloth soaked with salt or vinegar to clean this area.
– Drain hose and water filter: Make sure to regularly check these areas and replace the drain hose if it is old and dirty.
Important notes for cleaning your washing machine
Clean your washing machine every month.
After cleaning the machine, wait for about 1 hour before starting the machine with a normal wash cycle once again. This will help remove any remaining residue and dirt.
Leave the lid of the machine open to allow it to air dry naturally and prevent the buildup of bacteria and mold inside the machine after cleaning.
These are the steps to clean your washing machine at home without the need to call a technician. Start implementing them today!
According to VTC