The inside of your washing machine is constantly being subjected to dirty water, mineral deposits, detergent deposits, and if you launder cloth diapers it is especially important to keep your machine clean and in tip-top condition. Much like dishwashers, sinks and bathtubs get dirty even though they are meant to clean things, your washing machine can become a mess in no time.
Though, most dirt and soil is washed out with the water, dirt, soap residue and other unidentifiable grungy objects can be left behind and you actually have to get rid of this dirt yourself. Every time you wash your clothes, hard water and detergents cause build up to accumulate also, inside the tub, pump and hoses. This build-up reduces the ability of your washing machine to perform and mineral build-up can be abrasive to your cloths and diapers you are washing, causing them to wear faster. Cleaning your washing machine eliminates these problems.
Your washing machine works tirelessly to keep your clothes clean and fresh, but it also needs some TLC to maintain peak performance. Over time, dirt, grime, and detergent residue can accumulate inside the machine, leading to unpleasant odors, mold growth, and reduced efficiency. Regular cleaning not only ensures hygienic laundry but also prolongs the lifespan of your appliance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the step-by-step process of cleaning your washing machine effectively.
1. Gather Your Supplies:
Before you begin cleaning your washing machine, gather the necessary supplies:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Microfiber cloth or sponge
- Toothbrush or soft-bristled brush
- Old toothbrush or small brush for crevices
- Hot water
- Distilled water (optional)
- Bleach (for top-loading machines, if desired)
2. Clean the Exterior
Start by wiping down the exterior of the washing machine with a damp microfiber cloth or sponge. Use a mild detergent or all-purpose cleaner to remove any stains or fingerprints. Pay special attention to control panels, knobs, and handles. Dry the exterior with a clean towel to prevent water spots.
3. Clean the Dispenser Drawers
Remove the detergent dispenser drawers from the washing machine, if applicable. Wash them in warm, soapy water to remove detergent residue and fabric softener buildup. Use a toothbrush or soft-bristled brush to scrub any stubborn residue. Rinse the drawers thoroughly and allow them to air dry before reinserting them into the machine.
4. Clean the Door Seal
Inspect the door seal or gasket for any visible signs of mold, mildew, or debris. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray the solution onto the door seal. Use a microfiber cloth or sponge to wipe away mold and mildew growth, paying attention to the folds and crevices. For stubborn buildup, scrub the area with a toothbrush dipped in vinegar solution. Wipe the door seal dry with a clean cloth.
5. Run a Cleaning Cycle
Most modern washing machines have a self-cleaning cycle that helps remove dirt and residue from the drum and internal components. If your machine has this feature, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for running a cleaning cycle. Alternatively, you can create your own cleaning cycle by following these steps:
For Front-Loading Machines:
Pour two cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser or directly into the drum. Add half a cup of baking soda to the drum. Run the machine on the hottest and longest cycle available, using the “sanitize” or “clean” setting if possible. This helps dissolve mineral deposits and remove odor-causing bacteria.
For Top-Loading Machines:
Fill the machine with hot water until the drum is about halfway full. Add four cups of white vinegar and one cup of baking soda directly into the drum. Close the lid and let the machine agitate for a few minutes to mix the ingredients. Pause the cycle and let the solution soak for at least an hour, or overnight for stubborn odors. After soaking, resume the cycle and let it complete. Optionally, add a capful of bleach to the water for extra disinfection, but be cautious not to mix bleach with vinegar as it can produce toxic fumes.
6. Clean the Drum and Agitator (Top-Loading Machines)
For top-loading machines with agitators, use a microfiber cloth or sponge soaked in vinegar solution to wipe down the interior surfaces of the drum and agitator. Pay attention to any areas with visible dirt or residue. Use an old toothbrush or small brush to scrub crevices and hard-to-reach areas. Rinse the drum thoroughly with hot water to remove any remaining vinegar residue.
7. Final Rinse
After running the cleaning cycle, run an additional rinse cycle to ensure all traces of vinegar and baking soda are flushed out of the machine. Use hot water for the rinse cycle to help dissolve any remaining residue.
8. Air Dry
Once the cleaning cycle and rinse cycle are complete, leave the washing machine door open to allow the interior to air dry completely. This helps prevent mold and mildew growth by promoting air circulation and evaporation of moisture.
9. Monthly Maintenance
To maintain a clean washing machine, incorporate the following monthly maintenance tasks into your routine:
- Wipe down the door seal and detergent dispenser drawers with vinegar solution to prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Run a cleaning cycle using vinegar and baking soda to keep the drum and internal components free from residue and odor.
- Check for any signs of leaks or mechanical issues and address them promptly.
Tips for Preventing Buildup:
To minimize the buildup of dirt, grime, and odor-causing bacteria in your washing machine, follow these tips:
- Use the appropriate amount of detergent for each load, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Avoid overloading the machine, as this can prevent thorough cleaning and rinsing.
- Use liquid detergent instead of powdered detergent, as it tends to dissolve more easily and leave fewer residues.
- Leave the washing machine door open between cycles to allow air to circulate and prevent moisture buildup.
- Clean the lint filter regularly to prevent lint and debris from accumulating in the machine.
- Consider using a washing machine cleaner or descaler periodically to remove mineral deposits and limescale buildup.
By following these steps and incorporating regular maintenance into your laundry routine, you can keep your washing machine clean, fresh, and in optimal working condition for years to come. Remember that a clean washing machine not only ensures hygienic laundry but also contributes to energy efficiency and prolongs the lifespan of your appliance.
Stinky In There? Cut Down On The Unwanted Odors
To cut down on odors in your washing machine, consider implementing the following strategies:
Regular Cleaning
Performing routine cleaning of your washing machine is crucial for preventing odors. Follow the steps outlined in the previous guide to thoroughly clean the interior drum, door seal, detergent dispenser, and other components. Removing accumulated dirt, grime, and detergent residue helps eliminate odor-causing bacteria and mold growth.
Leave the Door Open
After completing a laundry cycle, leave the washing machine door ajar to allow air circulation and moisture to evaporate. Closing the door traps moisture inside the machine, creating an ideal environment for mold and mildew to thrive. By leaving the door open between uses, you can help prevent the buildup of odors and promote a fresher-smelling machine.
Use Hot Water
Running occasional hot water cycles can help dissolve detergent residues and kill odor-causing bacteria lurking inside the machine. Choose the hottest water temperature setting available and run an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar or washing machine cleaner. This helps sanitize the interior and eliminate stubborn odors.
Use Vinegar or Baking Soda
Incorporate white vinegar or baking soda into your regular laundry routine to help neutralize odors and maintain a fresh-smelling machine. Add one cup of white vinegar or baking soda to the detergent dispenser or directly into the drum before starting a hot water cycle. These natural ingredients work to break down odors and leave the interior of the machine smelling clean.
Avoid Overloading
Overloading the washing machine with too many clothes can prevent proper water circulation and detergent distribution, leading to ineffective cleaning and lingering odors. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for load capacity and avoid stuffing the drum beyond its recommended limit. Opt for smaller loads when necessary to ensure thorough cleaning and prevent odors.
Use High-Efficiency Detergent
Choose high-efficiency (HE) detergents specifically formulated for use in modern washing machines. These detergents are designed to produce fewer suds and rinse away more effectively, reducing the risk of detergent residue buildup and odors. Use the appropriate amount of detergent according to the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent excess residue from accumulating.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter
Periodically check and clean the drain pump filter to remove lint, debris, and other particles that can contribute to foul odors. Refer to your washing machine’s user manual for instructions on locating and accessing the drain pump filter. Remove any obstructions and rinse the filter thoroughly before reinstalling it.
Dry Wet Clothes Promptly
Avoid leaving wet clothes sitting in the washing machine for an extended period after the cycle has finished. Transfer damp laundry to the dryer promptly to prevent mildew growth and musty odors from developing. If you’re unable to dry the clothes immediately, consider running an additional rinse cycle to remove excess moisture.
By incorporating these odor-fighting strategies into your laundry routine, you can keep your washing machine smelling fresh and clean, ensuring hygienic laundry results with each wash. Consistent maintenance and preventive measures help minimize the risk of odors and prolong the lifespan of your appliance.
Stick To DIY or Call In The Pros?
Cleaning a washing machine is typically considered an easy DIY job that most homeowners can tackle themselves. With the right supplies and instructions, you can effectively clean your washing machine to maintain optimal performance and hygiene. Calling in a professional for washing machine cleaning is generally unnecessary unless you encounter significant mechanical issues or require repairs beyond basic maintenance.
Here are a few reasons why cleaning your washing machine is typically a DIY job:
1. Simple Process:
The process of cleaning a washing machine typically involves basic steps such as running cleaning cycles with vinegar or baking soda, wiping down the interior surfaces, and removing and cleaning components like the detergent dispenser and door seal. These tasks can be easily performed by following step-by-step instructions.
2. Cost Savings:
Performing washing machine cleaning yourself can save you money compared to hiring a professional service. DIY cleaning requires minimal supplies, such as vinegar, baking soda, and cleaning brushes, which are inexpensive and readily available. By investing a small amount of time and effort, you can maintain your washing machine’s cleanliness and functionality without incurring additional costs.
3. Convenience:
DIY washing machine cleaning allows you to schedule the task at your convenience, without having to wait for a professional service appointment. You can perform maintenance whenever it fits into your schedule, ensuring that your washing machine remains clean and odor-free without delay.
While DIY cleaning is generally straightforward and cost-effective, there may be instances where calling in a professional is warranted. If you encounter mechanical issues such as leaks, unusual noises, or malfunctioning components during the cleaning process, it’s advisable to seek assistance from a qualified appliance repair technician. Additionally, if you’re unsure about how to access or clean certain parts of your washing machine, consulting a professional for guidance may be helpful.
The average cost of hiring a professional for washing machine cleaning can vary depending on factors such as the technician’s hourly rate, the extent of the cleaning required, and any additional repairs or services performed. Professional cleaning services typically range from $100 to $200 or more, depending on the complexity of the job. However, it’s important to weigh the cost of professional cleaning against the potential cost savings and convenience of DIY maintenance.
In summary, cleaning a washing machine is generally considered an easy DIY job that homeowners can handle themselves. By following simple instructions and using basic supplies, you can effectively clean your washing machine to maintain performance and hygiene. While professional cleaning services are available, they are typically unnecessary for routine maintenance and may be reserved for addressing significant mechanical issues or repairs.
View Comments
Wow that's something I hadn't thought of before
Thanks for the reminder! I try and do this every few months. BTW I'm a Diaper Jungle regular.
You forgot to mention to clean inside the fabric softener tube. Once you take off the part you put the liquid in take a look down the middle of your washer. I never used liquid fabric softener and yet I see mold growing down there. It is difficult to find a brush to clean it out. I was able to get one through work, but keep looking. I pour bleach down it and then scrub.
That's a great tip. Thanks for sharing.
everytime I wash in my machine I get lint on everything. I have sorted the clothes properly and it makes no difference. How do I solve this problem it has ruined so many of my pants and polo shirts fuzz everywhere.
HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Leonie
Most often, lint problems are related to your dryer. If there is lint on your clothing after the wash, it should come off in the dryer. Dryer Balls are a natural alternative to dryer sheets, and are very effective at removing lint from clothing. You may also want to try a dryer brush set. These will allow you to clean your dryer of residual lint that is deposited out of sight. Once removed, you will find less on your clothing once the load has finished.
This is a great tip on how to clean the washing machine. Thanks!
I pour bleach into a spray bottle and spray it around the washing machine then use a sponge to wipe all around. After that I the extra rinse cycle to ensure all the bleach is gone before washing my clothes again. Don't want to ruin any clothes because you didn’t rinse out all the bleach.
I can't get the liquid fabric softener dispenser to stay on now that I have taken it off! Anyone else have this problem?
Oh no! Most times these pop on the same way that they come off, but specific models will have slightly different designs. The best place to check might be your user manual. Anyone else have this experience? What is the model of your washer?
The bin itself is usually quite easy to remove through twisting and lifting it out. While the suggestions of running an empty load through the wash of hot and bleach (or some other disinfectant) are good, sometimes the mold and muck that is causing the smell has accumulated beyond the reach of the water running through the wash. Removing the bin will allow you to access those areas and wipe them clean. Then use the hot water/disinfectant empty load method once a month to prevent it from getting that bad again.
Good points. If mold and mildew begin to grow on parts that are hidden, it can be a real problem. It is certainly not impossible for moisture to get beyond the bin, so taking it out periodically, would ensure ultimate cleanliness. It is probably more hardcore than most people can handle, but bacteria and mold can be harmful, so thoroughly cleaning the unit once every year or so might be a good idea for everyone that can.