Introduction
When it comes to washing machines, there’s no better option than a Maytag washer. These machines are built to last and have a reputation for being some of the most reliable on the market. But even the best machines need regular maintenance and cleaning in order to keep them running their best. In this article, we’ll explore how to properly clean a Maytag washer so that you can keep your machine running like new.
Start with a Basic Cleaning: Run an Empty Cycle with Hot Water and Vinegar
The first step in cleaning your Maytag washer is to run an empty cycle with hot water and vinegar. This will help remove any buildup of soap or detergent residue, which can cause odors and reduce the efficiency of your machine. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer, and it’s also great at breaking down residues that can accumulate in your washer over time.
Benefits of Vinegar
Vinegar is a natural cleaner that is safe to use on all types of surfaces. It can help break down soap scum, grease, and other residues that can build up in your washer. It is also a natural deodorizer, so it can help remove any unwanted odors from your machine.
Steps for Running an Empty Cycle
To run an empty cycle with vinegar and hot water, you’ll need to fill the washer with hot water. Once the washer is filled, add 1 cup of white vinegar and let it sit for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, start the washer and let it run until the cycle is complete. Once the cycle is finished, you can proceed to the next step of cleaning your Maytag washer.
Deep Clean the Washer Drum: Use Baking Soda and Hot Water
The next step in cleaning your Maytag washer is to deep clean the washer drum. This is important because dirt, grime, and mildew can build up inside the drum over time and affect the efficiency of your machine. To deep clean the washer drum, you’ll need to use baking soda and hot water.
Benefits of Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural cleaner and deodorizer that is safe to use on all types of surfaces. It helps break down residues that can accumulate in your washer over time, and it can also help remove odors.
Steps for Cleaning the Washer Drum
To deep clean the washer drum, you’ll need to fill the washer with hot water. Once the washer is filled, add 1 cup of baking soda and let it sit for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, start the washer and let it run until the cycle is complete. Once the cycle is finished, you can proceed to the next step of cleaning your Maytag washer.
Use a Specialized Cleaner for Tougher Stains
If you’re dealing with tougher stains, you may want to consider using a specialized cleaner. There are many cleaners on the market specifically designed for washing machines, and they can be very effective at removing stubborn stains.
What to Look for in a Specialized Cleaner
When shopping for a specialized cleaner, look for one that is specifically designed for washing machines. You should also make sure that the cleaner is safe to use on your specific type of washer.
Steps for Using a Specialized Cleaner
To use a specialized cleaner, you’ll need to follow the instructions on the package. Generally, you’ll need to fill the washer with hot water, add the cleaner, and let it sit for 10 minutes before starting the washer. Once the cycle is complete, you can proceed to the next step of cleaning your Maytag washer.
Remove Odors with Bleach and White Vinegar
If your washer has developed an unpleasant odor, you can use bleach and white vinegar to help remove it. Bleach is a powerful disinfectant and deodorizer, and white vinegar is a natural deodorizer that can help neutralize odors.
Benefits of Bleach and White Vinegar
Bleach is a powerful disinfectant and deodorizer, and white vinegar is a natural deodorizer that can help neutralize odors. Both are safe to use on all types of surfaces, so you don’t have to worry about damaging your washer.
Steps for Removing Odors
To remove odors with bleach and white vinegar, you’ll need to fill the washer with hot water. Once the washer is filled, add 1/2 cup of bleach and 1/2 cup of white vinegar and let it sit for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, start the washer and let it run until the cycle is complete. Once the cycle is finished, you can proceed to the next step of cleaning your Maytag washer.
Clean the Dispenser Trays and Lint Filter
The next step in cleaning your Maytag washer is to clean the dispenser trays and lint filter. This is important because dirt, grime, and lint can accumulate in these areas over time and affect the efficiency of your machine.
Benefits of Cleaning the Dispenser Trays and Lint Filter
Cleaning the dispenser trays and lint filter will ensure that your washer is running efficiently. It will also help prevent any clogs or blockages that could cause your washer to malfunction.
Steps for Cleaning the Dispenser Trays and Lint Filter
To clean the dispenser trays and lint filter, you’ll need to remove them from the washer. Once they are removed, you can use a soft cloth and warm, soapy water to wipe them down. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, as this will help remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated over time. Once the trays and filter are clean, you can reinsert them into the washer and proceed to the next step of cleaning your Maytag washer.
Clean the Exterior of the Washer
The final step in cleaning your Maytag washer is to clean the exterior of the washer. This is important because dirt and dust can accumulate on the outside of the machine over time and affect its appearance.
Benefits of Cleaning the Exterior of the Washer
Cleaning the exterior of the washer will help keep it looking its best. It will also help prevent the buildup of dirt and dust, which can affect the efficiency of your machine.
Steps for Cleaning the Exterior of the Washer
To clean the exterior of the washer, you’ll need to unplug the machine and wipe it down with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, as this will help remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated over time. Once the exterior is clean, you can plug the washer back in and proceed to the next step of cleaning your Maytag washer.
Maintain Regular Cleanings to Keep Your Washer Working Its Best
Now that you know how to properly clean your Maytag washer, it’s important to maintain regular cleanings in order to keep your machine running its best. Regular cleanings will help prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and lint, which can affect the efficiency of your machine.
Benefits of Regular Cleanings
Regular cleanings will help keep your washer running efficiently and extend its life. It will also help prevent the buildup of dirt and grime, which can cause odors and reduce the efficiency of your machine.
Steps for Regular Cleaning
To maintain regular cleanings, you should run an empty cycle with hot water and vinegar every month. You should also deep clean the washer drum with baking soda and hot water every three to six months. Additionally, you should clean the dispenser trays and lint filter every three to six months, and clean the exterior of the washer every six months.
Conclusion
In conclusion, keeping your Maytag washer clean is essential for keeping it running its best. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily maintain your machine and keep it running like new. Regularly running an empty cycle with hot water and vinegar, deep cleaning the washer drum with baking soda and hot water, and using a specialized cleaner for tougher stains are all key steps in keeping your Maytag washer clean and efficient.
Summary of the Article
This article explored how to properly clean a Maytag washer. We discussed running an empty cycle with hot water and vinegar, deep cleaning the washer drum with baking soda and hot water, using a specialized cleaner for tougher stains, removing odors with bleach and white vinegar, cleaning the dispenser trays and lint filter, and cleaning the exterior of the washer. We also discussed the importance of maintaining regular cleanings in order to keep your washer running its best.
Final Thoughts
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily maintain your Maytag washer and keep it running like new. Regular cleanings are essential for keeping your washer running its best, and by taking the time to properly clean your washer, you can extend its life and save money in the long run.
