Maintaining the cleanliness of your washing machine is crucial for your laundry’s hygiene. While cleaning the exterior is essential, it’s not enough to ensure optimal sanitation. The most critical component of a washing machine is the wash drum, which has a dual-layer structure: the inner layer is the drum we typically clean, but the outer layer and water tank are more challenging to access.
Over time, these areas can accumulate dirt, rust, and mold. As a result, your clothes may emerge from the wash with black stains or invisible bacteria. In other words, the more you wash, the dirtier your clothes become.
So, how can we address this issue? There are two primary methods:
– Disassembling and cleaning the washing machine: While this method is effective, it can be complex and costly. Moreover, modern washing machines are often assembled tightly, and disassembling and reassembling them can reduce their lifespan.
– Utilizing the drum cleaning function: This solution is specifically designed to target hard-to-reach areas. Using this function correctly will ensure the interior of your washing machine remains hygienic.
Not only does the drum cleaning function effectively clean your clothes, but it also prolongs the lifespan of your washing machine.
The Principle Behind the Drum Cleaning Function
The fundamental principle of the drum cleaning function in washing machines is to use water for rinsing. However, the cleaning process varies between different types of washing machines at different price points.
For basic washing machines, the self-cleaning process is relatively simple: water is added to the wash drum, which then rotates and drains. During the drain cycle, the machine switches to a spin mode to dry the inner and outer surfaces of the drum.
To enhance cleaning effectiveness, more advanced washing machines are equipped with a water heating function. Hot water improves the cleaning performance, and this feature has become a standard for horizontal drum washing machines.
However, relying solely on hot water is not enough. Some washing machines also feature an internal spray nozzle. When water is pumped in, the nozzle creates high pressure, similar to a pressure washer, resulting in a more thorough cleaning of the drum.
Even with water and pressure, stubborn stains may persist. Therefore, high-end washing machines incorporate a drying function. After cleaning, the machine uses a fan to dry the drum, ensuring it is entirely moisture-free, thus preventing bacterial and mold growth. This method is the most advanced drum cleaning technique available today. Nonetheless, if the drum has particularly stubborn stains, drying alone may not be sufficient to eliminate them entirely.
Instructions for Using the Drum Cleaning Function
While the drum cleaning function is essential, its effectiveness can vary depending on the price of your washing machine. Higher-end models generally offer better drum cleaning capabilities, but even they cannot guarantee absolute cleanliness. So, how can we maintain the hygiene of our washing machines?
According to maintenance experts, there are three helpful tips that users should follow:
– Increase the frequency of using the drum cleaning function: It is recommended to activate this function after every 3-5 washes. Doing so prevents dirt from accumulating in the drum, keeping your machine clean.
– Use suitable detergents: You can add a small amount of specialized washing machine detergent or use low-foam laundry detergents. It’s important to choose a low-foam option to prevent foam from overflowing, especially when the water is heated.
– Keep the washing machine door open after use: After each wash, especially after using the drum cleaning function, leave the door open to allow the drum to air dry. Some machines have a drum drying function, which you can use to enhance the drying process.
Implementing these tips will help keep your washing machine clean and prolong its lifespan.
Areas to Focus on When Cleaning Your Washing Machine
According to experts, there are four critical areas to pay attention to when cleaning your washing machine, and the drum is the most challenging to clean, typically requiring the drum cleaning function. In addition to the drum, three other areas require manual cleaning:
– Water filter at the bottom right corner: Open the small lid at the bottom right corner of the washing machine, and you’ll find a rotating knob. Turning this knob will give you access to the filter. This filter should be cleaned at least once a month; otherwise, your clothes may become contaminated with hair and dirt.
– Detergent compartment: The detergent compartment can accumulate detergent residue and should be cleaned regularly to prevent buildup.
– Rubber gasket on the door: When you open the washing machine door, you’ll notice a rubber gasket. Inspect the inside of the gasket, as this area often traps water and dirt. If left uncleaned, it can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, contaminating your laundry.
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