how to clean a washing machine

Table Contents: show

How to Clean a Washing Machine: A Comprehensive Guide

Greetings, Asensio, and welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to clean a washing machine. A washing machine is an essential household appliance that we rely on daily to wash our clothes. However, if we neglect to maintain and clean it, we risk the machine malfunctioning, causing inconvenience and expense. This guide will walk you through the essential steps on how to clean your washing machine and ensure its longevity, saving you time and money in the long run.

Introduction

Before we dive in, it’s essential to understand why cleaning your washing machine is crucial. Over time, grime, dirt, and soap scum can accumulate in the machine, leading to foul odors, poor washing results, and even damage to your machine. Not only does a dirty washing machine impact the efficiency of the wash, but it can also be a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and mildew. Thus, cleaning your washing machine is vital for maintaining its performance and avoiding potential health hazards.

You may be asking yourself how often you should clean your washing machine. Experts recommend cleaning after every 30-40 loads or every three months, depending on the usage. However, if you notice any unusual smells, stains on your clothes, or poor washing results, it’s essential to clean your washing machine immediately, regardless of how frequent or infrequent you use it.

In the next section, we will discuss the required tools and materials for cleaning your washing machine.

Materials and Tools Required

The following materials and tools are necessary for cleaning your washing machine:

Materials Tools
Affresh washing machine cleaner Screwdriver
Baking soda Cleaning rag
Vinegar or bleach Toothbrush
Microfiber cloth Bucket
Hot water Gloves

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean a Washing Machine

Step 1: Clean the Exterior

Before starting the cleaning process, it’s essential to clean the exterior of the washing machine. Use a damp cloth and mild soap to clean the outside of the machine, including the control panel, dials, and door. Dry the exterior thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.

Step 2: Clean the Detergent Dispenser and Lint Filter

The detergent dispenser and lint filter are often overlooked in the cleaning process. Remove the detergent dispenser and lint filter and clean them thoroughly with hot water and soap. Use a toothbrush to clean any hard-to-reach areas. Dry the parts thoroughly before reinserting them into the washing machine.

Step 3: Clean the Drum

Now it’s time to clean the drum of the washing machine. You can either use bleach or vinegar for this step. If using bleach, add one cup of bleach to the dispenser and run an empty hot water cycle. If using vinegar, add two cups of vinegar to the dispenser and run an empty hot water cycle. This step will remove any built-up bacteria, mold, and mildew from the drum.

Step 4: Run an Affresh Cleaning Cycle

Affresh washing machine cleaner is a specially formulated cleaner designed to remove residue and odor-causing bacteria from the inside of your washing machine. Follow the instructions on the package for running a cleaning cycle. This step will ensure that your washing machine is thoroughly clean and free of bacteria and odor.

Step 5: Clean the Rubber Gasket

The rubber gasket around the washing machine door can accumulate dirt and grime. Use a toothbrush and hot soapy water to clean the gasket. Be sure to clean any hard-to-reach areas to prevent the build-up of bacteria and mold.

Step 6: Clean the Drain Pump Filter

The drain pump filter can become clogged with debris, leading to poor drainage and potential damage to your washing machine. Refer to your machine’s manual to locate the filter and remove any trapped debris. Clean the filter with hot water and soap before reinserting it back into the washing machine.

Step 7: Run a Final Cycle

Before returning to regular use, run a final cycle with hot water and no laundry to rinse any remaining residue or cleaning solution from the machine. This step will ensure that your washing machine is entirely clean and ready for use.

FAQs

Q1: Can I clean my washing machine with just vinegar?

Yes, vinegar is an excellent alternative to bleach and effectively removes any bacteria, mold, and mildew from the drum of the washing machine.

Q2: Can I use regular soap to clean my washing machine?

No, regular soap can damage the machine and leave residue, which can lead to poor washing results. Use a specially formulated washing machine cleaner or vinegar to clean your machine.

Q3: Can I use a toothbrush to clean the inside of the machine?

Yes, a toothbrush is an effective tool for cleaning hard-to-reach areas, such as the rubber gasket and drain pump filter.

Q4: How often should I clean my washing machine?

It’s recommended to clean your washing machine every 30-40 loads or every three months. However, if you notice any unusual smells or poor washing results, it’s essential to clean your washing machine immediately.

Q5: Can I use Affresh on any washing machine?

Affresh washing machine cleaner is formulated to be used on all washing machines, including front-loading and top-loading machines.

Q6: Can a dirty washing machine cause skin irritation?

Yes, a dirty washing machine can be a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and mildew. These can cause skin irritation and health hazards if the machine is not cleaned regularly.

Q7: Can I clean my washing machine with bleach?

Yes, bleach is an effective cleaning agent for removing bacteria, mold, and mildew from the drum of the washing machine. However, be sure to follow the instructions on the package and run an additional cycle to rinse any remaining bleach.

Conclusion

Cleaning your washing machine is vital for maintaining its performance and prolonging its lifespan. Follow the above steps to ensure your machine is thoroughly cleaned and free of bacteria and odor. Remember to clean your washing machine regularly and refer to your machine’s manual for any specific cleaning instructions. Doing so will save you time and money in the long run, prevent health hazards, and ensure your washing machine continues to provide clean and fresh laundry.

Disclaimer

The information in this guide is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning your washing machine and refer to your machine’s manual for any specific cleaning instructions. The author and publisher are not responsible for any damages or injuries resulting from the use or misuse of the information in this guide.