Your washing machine is designed to remove dirt and bacteria from your clothes. Through the use of dishwashing detergent working to clean clothes efficiently, it can start to build up dirt and scum. Washing machine cleaning helps to keep it working efficiently and saves you money on purchasing a machine all too soon.
Best Washing Machine Cleaning Methods
Cleaning the Outside
Remove any of the control knobs if they come off. Let them soak in warm water and gentle cleaning concentrates. Wipe down the exterior of the machine with a microfiber cloth and all-purpose cleaner. If possible, move the machine away from the wall and vacuum behind it. Check out the rubber water supply hoses to see if there is any wear or cracks. If there is, you will want to replace them to avoid any leaking water and damage to the floor.
Cleaning the Inside of Your Washing Machine
Any parts that are removable should be cleaned up. You can soak them in a gentle dish detergent and then rinse off and let dry. With a cloth, scrub any crevices that are inside the washing machine. Clean any small parts and fill the soap tray with vinegar.
If you have a front-loading washing machine with a rubber gasket, clean it with some vinegar and water. If your washing machine has a trap that catches debris, clean it with vinegar. If you’re not sure where it is, you can check out the owner’s manual. A front-loading unit may have a door that catches small debris. Not all washers have this but it will look like a little door or portal. Open it up and clean out any debris you see. This may involve pulling out chunks of dirt, coins, or hair.
Washing Machine Cleaning the Wash Drum
You’ll want to pour a quart of white vinegar into the wash drum with a cup of baking soda. With a nylon brush, scrub the inside of the wash drum. Run a washing cycle with the cleaning solution inside on the hottest temperature setting possible. If you have a heavy-duty setting available, use this. You can run the machine once again with laundry detergent to get rid of the smell of vinegar.
How to Keep Your Washing Machine Clean
You can make your life easier by maintaining your washing machine with a few easy steps. If you have a high-efficiency washing machine, you can use HE-approved laundry detergents. This illuminates an excessive amount of suds so there’s less soap scum build-up. Use a measuring cup and don’t use an excessive amount of detergent. It’s a waste and it can cause additional build-up. If you have a front-loading machine, keep the door open a little to prevent mould and mildew from building up. Lastly, clean the washer debris at least once a week.
Professional Washing Machine Cleaning Services
Usually, cleaning services don’t have washing machine cleaning as a general duty on their list. However, you can ask to have this done as an additional service on top of regular housekeeping. Custom house cleaning plans can potentially include this service if need be.
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