If you want your washing machine to look and smell like new, cleaning it once a month is recommended. Not only will this keep clothes smelling fresh, but it also prevents mould buildup.
Make the job of cleaning easier by mixing bleach with white vinegar. Bleach eliminates germs, while vinegar dissolves stains and hard mineral deposits.
Cleaning the interior
No matter if your washing machine is top loader or front loader, its interior needs to be regularly cleaned. Doing this helps keep the machine functioning optimally and prevent mildew buildup.
Additionally, using a damp microfiber cloth or specially-formulated cleaning wipes for washing machines helps remove lint and hair from door seals, gaskets, and dispensers can be beneficial. You can clean these parts with a damp microfiber cloth or cleaning wipes.
You can also use a combination of vinegar and baking soda to remove mildew from the drum of your machine. Perform a regular clean cycle using these solutions once every month in order to keep your washing machine in top condition.
Once you’re ready to begin, move your washer away from the wall and vacuum up any dirt that might be hiding behind it. Afterward, use a spray cleaner and microfibre cloth to clean the exterior of your washing machine.
Cleaning the exterior
One of the simplest and most efficient ways to keep your machine in top condition is regular cleaning. Doing this prevents lint and dust from entering, leading to unpleasant odors or mildew buildup.
To begin, take a multi-purpose cleaner and some soft cloth and wipe down the exterior, lid, and control panel of your machine.
Once you’ve finished, shut the door and allow your washing machine to finish its full cycle. This extra drying time helps prevent odor-causing bacteria from building up on the rubber gasket.
It’s also wise to remove the detergent dispenser panel and spray it with an all-purpose cleaning solution. Doing this ensures all fine details of the dispenser are functioning correctly. Furthermore, take some time to wipe down the outside of the machine with either a damp cloth or microfiber sponge; this removes dirt and lint from its body.
Cleaning the detergent drawer
The detergent drawer in your washing machine can get a bit grimy and could use some TLC from you. This space is home to germs, soap scum and mould so it’s best to give it a deep clean regularly.
To clean your washing machine drawer, begin by opening up the top and turning it upside down. Use a cloth or scrubbing sponge to thoroughly scrub all areas inside that are accessible.
Next, pour some white vinegar down the pipe and let it work its magic. The acid will break down any mould or odours that have built up inside of it, helping to flush them out of your washing machine.
After each wash, be sure to wipe the rubber seal of your detergent drawer with a cloth. Doing this prevents mould buildup and keeps unpleasant odours from returning.
Cleaning the rubber seal
If you don’t clean your washing machine regularly, soap scum, water deposits and fluff can build up on the rubber seal. Over time this may lead to mould growth which gives off an unpleasant odour in your clothing.
It’s easy to overlook the rubber seal on a washing machine, but keeping it clean is essential for maintaining its performance. After all, dirty seals attract lint, dirt and other particles which then get trapped inside the drum of your washer machine.
When cleaning the seal, be sure to use only the appropriate amount of detergent. Overusing detergent can create soap scum that will accumulate within its folds and promote mold growth.
To prevent this from occurring, make a homemade cleaner using hydrogen peroxide and lemon juice. Spraying this solution on the door seal will help dissolve grime and discourage mold growth.