Essential Cleaning for Your Washing Machine
Many household appliances require occasional cleaning, even those specifically designed for cleanliness, like your washing machine and dishwasher. It’s easy to overlook these machines until you notice mold creeping into your washer or stubborn lime scale building up in your dishwasher. This realization often hits hard, as neglecting these issues could lead to costly replacements.
Let me share a personal story: I was genuinely alarmed when I discovered the state of my top-loading washing machine. The rubber gasket was filled with unsightly black mold spores, and an unpleasant odor was emanating from it. It became clear where that funky smell was originating!
Additionally, the detergent compartment was not much better; it was coated in a brownish residue with remnants of laundry detergent clinging stubbornly to it. From my experience, I urge you not to procrastinate when it comes to cleaning your washer. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent potential damage. Aim to apply the following cleaning remedy at least once every two weeks to keep mold at bay and combat hard water buildup.
You Will Need:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
Cleaning Tools:
- Toothbrush
- Microfiber cloth
Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions:
- Begin by filling the washing machine to the highest load size setting, using the hottest water available, and selecting the longest wash cycle.
- Once the tub starts to fill, open the lid and pour in a quart of white vinegar.
- Close the lid, allowing the machine to run for about a minute to mix the vinegar with the water.
- After a minute, open the lid again and let the vinegar-water solution soak in the tub for one hour.
- During this soaking period, remove any detachable components and soak them in vinegar while cleaning the hard-to-reach areas beneath the lid.
- Next, scrub the removable parts, such as the bleach and fabric softener compartments, thoroughly. Make sure to dry these parts completely before reinserting them. Use your toothbrush to clean the upper section of the agitator and other hard-to-access spots around the rim of the tub. This is also a great time to wipe down the front and sides of the washing machine, but keep the lid open for now!
- After the hour has passed, close the lid and let the wash cycle finish.
- As your machine is washing, take the opportunity to clean the top of the machine, including the dials and control panel, using a vinegar solution.
- To eliminate any lingering vinegar smell, run another hot water cycle, adding 1 cup of baking soda during this process. This step will help remove any remaining residues.
- Finally, after the cycle concludes, it’s advisable to leave the washer’s lid open to allow air circulation and prevent mildew formation.