Introduction
Your washing machine is an essential appliance that you use on a regular basis to keep your clothes clean and fresh. But over time, dirt, grime, and other buildups can accumulate in the washing machine’s drum, leading to unpleasant odors or even stains. To ensure your washing machine continues to operate efficiently, it’s important to regularly clean the drum.
This article will provide an overview of how to clean a washing machine drum, including what solutions to use and the steps involved. By following these steps, you’ll be able to keep your washing machine in top condition and extend its lifespan.
Use a Cleaning Solution to Remove Odors and Stains
The first step in cleaning your washing machine drum is to remove any odors or stains. The best way to do this is to use a cleaning solution. There are a variety of solutions available, but some of the most effective ones include white vinegar, baking soda, laundry detergent, and store-bought washing machine cleaners.
To use a cleaning solution, start by filling the washing machine with hot water. Then add one cup of your chosen cleaning solution and let the machine run for a few minutes. Once the cycle has finished, drain the water and wipe down the drum with a damp cloth.
Scrub the Drum with a Nylon Brush
Once you’ve used a cleaning solution, the next step is to scrub the drum with a nylon brush. This will help remove any stubborn stains or buildup that the cleaning solution wasn’t able to remove. Nylon brushes are ideal because they won’t damage the drum, unlike metal brushes which could scratch or dent the surface.
To scrub the drum, start by dampening the nylon brush with warm water. Then use circular motions to scrub away any dirt or buildup. Pay particular attention to the edges of the drum and any other areas where dirt may have accumulated. When you’re done, wipe down the drum with a damp cloth to remove any excess dirt.
Run a Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar or Baking Soda
After scrubbing the drum, the next step is to run a hot water cycle with either vinegar or baking soda. Both of these substances are great for removing odors and leaving your washing machine smelling fresh. For best results, use one cup of either vinegar or baking soda and let the machine run on a hot water cycle.
Once the cycle has finished, open the lid and wipe down the drum with a damp cloth. This will help remove any remaining odors or residue. And if you’d like an extra boost of freshness, you can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the hot water before running the cycle.
Use a Washing Machine Cleaner
Washing machine cleaners are specially formulated to remove odors and buildup from the drum. They usually come in liquid or tablet form and are designed to be added to the wash cycle. To use a washing machine cleaner, simply follow the instructions on the package. Most cleaners will require you to run a hot water cycle and then leave the lid open for a few hours after the cycle has finished.
Once the cycle has finished, wipe down the drum with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue. You can also run another hot water cycle with just water to rinse away any leftover cleaner.
Sanitize the Drum with Bleach
If you want to give your washing machine drum an extra deep clean, you can use a diluted solution of bleach. This will not only help remove any odors or stains, but it will also help sanitize the drum and kill any bacteria or germs that may be present. To use bleach, mix one cup of bleach with one gallon of water and pour it into the washing machine. Then run a hot water cycle and leave the lid open for a few hours after the cycle has finished.
Once the cycle has finished, wipe down the drum with a damp cloth and then run another hot water cycle with just water to rinse away any remaining bleach.
Remove Excess Lint from the Drum Regularly
Finally, it’s important to regularly remove excess lint from the drum. Over time, lint can accumulate in the drum and cause clogs or blockages. To prevent this, take a damp cloth and wipe down the drum every few weeks to remove any excess lint. This will help ensure your washing machine continues to operate efficiently.
Conclusion
Cleaning your washing machine drum is an important part of maintaining your appliance. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure your washing machine stays in top condition and continues to operate efficiently. Start by using a cleaning solution to remove odors and stains, scrub the drum with a nylon brush, run a hot water cycle with vinegar or baking soda, use a washing machine cleaner, and sanitize the drum with bleach. Additionally, make sure to remove excess lint from the drum regularly.
By taking the time to clean your washing machine drum, you can extend the life of your appliance and make sure it continues to perform at its best.
