How to Clean a Washing Machine
Monthly maintenance will help to eliminate the buildup of residue in washing machine tanks and hoses.
A washing machine can perform wonders on even the dirtiest of clothes. Food stains, mud, grease, and grime will all vanish. Most of it is flushed out, but some may remain in the drum. In addition, without regular cleaning, a washing machine can develop hard water stains, mildew, and mold.
Ensure a home’s washing machine stays clean to keep clothes and linens as spotless and fresh as possible. Monthly maintenance will help to eliminate the buildup of residue in washing machine tanks and hoses. In addition, some have a self-cleaning function. For models without this feature, it can be done manually.
Step one: Hot cycle with vinegar
Instead of detergent, add 2 cups of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser. Then, run a regular cycle without clothes using the hot setting. Mixing hot water and vinegar will help remove and prevent bacteria growth. In addition, vinegar is an effective treatment for mildew.
Step two: Clean inside and out
Physically cleaning the interior and exterior will help remove any hard water stains, residue, and buildup of detergent that hasn’t been flushed during regular washing cycles. Add ¼ cup of vinegar to a quart of warm water in a bucket. Using a sponge, scrub all interior surfaces and pay special attention to any dispensers. Wipe down the inside of the door and its edges carefully. For hard-to-reach areas, use an old toothbrush to ensure all areas have been thoroughly cleaned. Finally, wipe down the exterior of the washing machine to keep it looking new.
For models with a removable soap dispenser, allow it to soak in the vinegar and warm water mixture to remove any detergent buildup.
Step three: Hot cycle again
Run another empty hot cycle without clothes. Instead of adding vinegar to the detergent dispenser, add ½ cup of baking soda to the drum this time. This will ensure that any loosened residue from the first cleaning cycle will be cleared and flushed. Once the cycle is done, use a microfiber cloth to wipe the drum to remove any residue.
Considerations for top-loading machines
During the first hot cycle of cleaning with vinegar, pause the machine. Once the tub is full, pause the cycle and let the vinegar and water mixture sit for an hour before resuming the cycle.
Considerations for front-loading machines
The panel on the lower-front part of the machine allows access to the drain hose. First, unplug the machine and then place towels under the panel. Pop it open and unscrew the dial. Allow the excess water to drain, and inspect for any debris left inside. Replace the dial and close the panel.
Perform regular washing machine maintenance
With monthly cleaning, a washing machine will remain fresh and mildew-free. Contact a home appliance professional for information about deep cleaning or other washing machine issues.
Freedom Appliance of Tampa Bay has 13 years of experience in professional repair and installation of all laundry and kitchen appliances and dryer duct cleaning. Call 813-302-7672 today!