Introduction
Cleaning your washing machine is an important part of regular laundry maintenance. If you don’t take care of your washer, it can lead to unpleasant odors and buildups of residue that can damage fabrics and cause your machine to run inefficiently. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of cleaning your washing machine so you can keep it in top shape.
Using a Cleaning Solution to Remove Buildup
The first step in cleaning your washing machine is to remove any buildup of residue and soap scum. You can do this by using a cleaning solution designed for washing machines. Some common cleaners include bleach, white vinegar, baking soda, and Affresh tablets.
What Kind of Cleaner to Use
Bleach is one of the most effective cleaning agents for removing buildup, but it can be harsh on fabrics. White vinegar is a natural cleaner that’s less harsh, but still effective. Baking soda is also a natural cleaner that’s gentle enough to use on fabrics. Finally, Affresh tablets are specifically designed for washing machines and can help break down tough residues.
How to Apply the Cleaner
Once you’ve chosen a cleaner, you’ll need to apply it to the inside of your washing machine. To do this, add the cleaner directly to the drum of the machine. If you’re using bleach or white vinegar, use 1 cup for every gallon of water. For baking soda, use ½ cup for every gallon of water. For Affresh tablets, follow the instructions on the package.
Rinsing off the Cleaner
Once you’ve applied the cleaner, you’ll need to rinse it off. To do this, fill the drum of the washing machine with hot water and let it run for a few minutes. This will help remove any residue left behind by the cleaner.
Using Vinegar and Baking Soda for Deep Cleaning
For a deeper clean, you can mix white vinegar and baking soda together to create a powerful cleaning solution. This mixture will help break down tough residue and eliminate odors.
Mixing the Solution
To make the cleaning solution, mix 1 cup of white vinegar with ½ cup of baking soda. Once you’ve mixed the ingredients, pour the solution into the drum of the washing machine.
Applying the Solution
Once you’ve poured the solution into the drum, run the washing machine on a hot cycle. This will help the solution penetrate deep into the drum and break down any residue.
Rinsing off the Solution
Once the cycle has finished, you’ll need to rinse off the solution. To do this, fill the drum with hot water and let it run for a few minutes. This will help remove any residue left behind by the solution.
Scrubbing Away Residue with a Soft Brush
If you find that there is still residue left behind after cleaning the inside of the drum, you can use a soft brush to scrub away any remaining buildup. This will help ensure that your washing machine is thoroughly cleaned.
Choosing the Right Brush
When choosing a brush, make sure it’s soft enough not to scratch or damage the inside of your washing machine. A toothbrush or a soft-bristled scrub brush should work just fine.
Brushing Away the Residue
Once you’ve chosen a brush, use it to gently scrub away any remaining residue. Make sure to move the brush in a circular motion to ensure that all areas are cleaned.
Cleaning the Brush Afterward
Once you’ve finished scrubbing, make sure to thoroughly rinse off the brush and let it dry before putting it away.
Cleaning the Inside of the Drum
After scrubbing the inside of the drum, you’ll need to clean it with a cleaning solution. This will help remove any remaining residue and odors.
Removing Loose Debris
Before applying the cleaner, it’s important to remove any loose debris that may be stuck in the drum. This can be done by using a vacuum or damp cloth to pick up any lint or other debris.
Using a Cleaning Solution
Once the debris has been removed, you can apply a cleaning solution to the inside of the drum. Use 1 cup of bleach or white vinegar for every gallon of water. For baking soda, use ½ cup for every gallon of water. For Affresh tablets, follow the instructions on the package.
Drying off the Drum
Once the cleaner has been applied, you’ll need to dry off the drum. To do this, fill the drum with hot water and let it run for a few minutes. This will help remove any residue left behind by the cleaner.
Running a Cleaning Cycle with Bleach or Affresh Tablet
The final step in cleaning your washing machine is to run a cleaning cycle with either bleach or an Affresh tablet. This will help remove any remaining residue and odors.
Preparing the Cleaning Cycle
Before running the cleaning cycle, make sure to remove any clothing or laundry from the washing machine. This will help ensure that the cleaning agent reaches all areas of the drum.
Adding the Bleach or Tablet
Once the washing machine is empty, add the bleach or Affresh tablet directly to the drum. Follow the instructions on the package for the correct amount to use.
Letting the Cycle Complete
Once the cleaner has been added, start the cleaning cycle. This will help remove any remaining residue and odors from the washing machine.
Conclusion
Cleaning your washing machine is an important part of regular laundry maintenance. By following these steps, you can keep your washing machine clean and running efficiently. Start by using a cleaning solution to remove buildup, then use vinegar and baking soda for a deeper clean. Scrub away any remaining residue with a soft brush, and finish by running a cleaning cycle with bleach or an Affresh tablet. Regular cleaning will help keep your washing machine in good condition.
