How to clean the washing machine
The washing machine is one of the most commonly used household appliances, but often gets overlooked when it comes to cleaning. However, regular cleaning of the washing machine not only helps keep it efficient and functioning for many years, but also prevents unpleasant odors and mold formation.
In this article, we will show you how to properly clean your washing machine easily and quickly. We will also provide some useful tips to prevent mold formation and keep your washing machine in perfect condition.
Cleaning the Washing Machine:
- Remove detergent residue: Before starting the cleaning process, make sure to remove all detergent residue from the detergent tray and drawer.
- Clean the inside of the washing machine: Use a specific washing machine cleaner or a solution of hot water and citric acid to clean the inside of the washing machine. Make sure to clean hard-to-reach parts such as the door seal and water filter.
- Clean the outside of the washing machine: Use a damp cloth with a mild cleaning solution to clean the outside of the washing machine. Avoid using abrasive products that could scratch the surface.
Preventing Mold Formation:
- Leave the door open: After each wash cycle, leave the washing machine door open to allow air circulation and prevent mold formation.
- Clean the detergent drawer regularly: Remove the detergent drawer and clean it regularly with hot water and a mild cleaning solution.
- Use automatic cleaning program: Many washing machines have an automatic cleaning program that you can use to keep your washing machine in perfect condition.
Materials Needed
Cleaning the washing machine doesn't require many tools, but it's important to have everything you need on hand to avoid interrupting the cleaning process. Here are the tools and materials you'll need:
- Washing machine cleaner: Choose a specific cleaner for the washing machine. Avoid using aggressive or bleaching chemicals.
- White vinegar: The acetic acid in white vinegar helps remove lime residue and accumulated dirt inside the washing machine.
- Baking soda: Baking soda has disinfectant properties and is useful for eliminating unpleasant odors from the washing machine.
- Soft-bristled brush: A brush with soft bristles is perfect for removing dirt from hard-to-reach parts of the washing machine, such as door seals or basket crevices.
- Microfiber cloth: Use a microfiber cloth to dry the inside of the washing machine after cleaning. Microfiber absorbs water well and leaves no lint or residue on the surface.
Remember to protect your hands with gloves during cleaning and unplug the washing machine before starting.
Cleaning the drum and dispenser
The washing machine drum is the part where clothes are inserted. Over time, dirt and detergent residues can accumulate, causing unpleasant odors and even staining fabrics during washing. Here's how to clean your washing machine drum:
- Run a hot water cycle without any laundry in the machine.
- Add half a liter of white vinegar to the detergent drawer or directly into the drum.
- Start the wash cycle and let the vinegar do its work for about an hour.
- After an hour, open the washing machine door and let the drum air dry.
As for the detergent dispenser, where liquid or powder detergent is inserted, product residues can also accumulate here, clogging pipes and causing problems for your washing machine. Cleaning the dispenser is very simple:
- Remove the dispenser from the washing machine following the instructions in the manual.
- Rinse each part of the dispenser thoroughly with hot running water.
- If there are stubborn residues, you can use an old toothbrush or brush to gently remove them.
- Replace the dispenser in its original position and run a hot water cycle without any laundry to eliminate any remaining residue.
With these simple steps, you can keep your washing machine clean and make it last longer. Remember to perform this operation at least once a month or whenever you notice unpleasant odors coming from your washing machine.
Cleaning the filter
The washing machine filter is a fundamental part of its operation. However, if it is not cleaned regularly, it can accumulate dirt and debris that can cause problems with the machine's functioning.
How to know when your washing machine filter needs to be cleaned
If you notice that your washing machine is making more noise than usual or that the water is not draining correctly, it may be necessary to clean the filter. Additionally, if you have noticed an unpleasant odor coming from the washing machine, this could be another sign that the filter needs to be cleaned.
How to clean your washing machine filter
Here are the steps to follow to properly clean your washing machine filter:
- Step 1: Turn off the washing machine and unplug it from the electrical outlet.
- Step 2: Locate the filter. It is usually located on the front or back of the machine. Consult the user manual if you are unsure where it is.
- Step 3: Prepare a bucket or basin under the filter to collect any residual water.
- Step 4: Unhook the filter and gently remove any debris or dirt.
Remember to clean your washing machine filter at least once every six months, or more often if you notice any problems with the machine's operation. Regularly cleaning the filter helps keep your washing machine in perfect working condition and prevents any future issues.
Empty wash program
The empty wash program is an excellent solution for deep cleaning your washing machine. This type of wash removes detergent residue, limescale, and dirt that accumulate inside the machine.
Here's how to run the empty wash program:
- Fill the detergent compartment with a solution made of hot water and citric acid or baking soda. The amount depends on the manufacturer's instructions, so be sure to read them carefully.
- Select the longest wash program available on your washing machine. Typically, this will be the "cotton" or "whites" program.
- Start the washing machine and wait for the cycle to finish.
- After completing the cycle, open the washing machine door and let the moisture evaporate naturally. Do not dry the inside of the machine with a cloth as it may damage internal parts.
Remember to regularly run the empty wash program to keep your washing machine in optimal condition. If you have trouble removing residues or notice a bad odor coming from your washing machine, try running the empty wash program multiple times or use a specific washing machine cleaning product.
Conclusion
Maintaining your washing machine clean and in good condition is essential to ensure perfect cleaning of your clothes. By following these simple steps, you can keep your washing machine in excellent condition and prolong its lifespan. Always remember to read the manufacturer's instructions before performing any maintenance or cleaning operations on your washing machine.
Michael Anderson - Software Engineer
My name is Michael Anderson, and I work as a computer engineer in Midland, Texas.
My passion is sharing my knowledge in various areas, and my purpose is to make education accessible to everyone. I believe it is essential to explain complex concepts in a simple and interesting way.
With GlobalHowTo, I aim to motivate and enrich the minds of those who want to learn.