How to Clean Your Washing Machine

Your washing machine works hard to get your clothes clean. In the process, it accumulates grime, soap scum, and limescale. If you don’t clean it, your clothes will start smelling or won’t be quite clean.

The good news is that it is simple and quick to clean a washing machine. A clean washing machine runs more efficiently, lasts longer, and conserves energy. In this guidebook, here, we will walk you through step-by-step on how to clean your washing machine.

Why You Need to Clean Your Washing Machine

Many people think their washing machine cleans itself. Sadly, that’s not true. Soap, lint, and dirt build up inside the drum and pipes. Over time, this can cause smells, mould, and poor washing results.

Keeping your machine clean means it works more efficiently. You’ll use less detergent, save water, and avoid costly repairs. It also helps your clothes stay fresh and bright.

What You’ll Need

You do not require any exotic products to clean your washing machine. Everything can be found in your kitchen cabinet.

You will need:

• White vinegar or washing machine cleaner
• Bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
• A soft cloth or sponge
• An old toothbrush
• Warm water
• A small bowl

These basic items are enough to eliminate grime, kill bacteria, and eliminate unpleasant odours.

Step 1: Clean the Detergent Drawer

The detergent drawer is the dirtiest part of your machine. Soap residue and mould have an easy time accumulating in crevices.

1. Pull the drawer out as far as it will go.
2. Soak it for ten minutes in warm soapy water.
3. Scrape off any remaining mould or detergent with an old toothbrush.
4. Rinse and dry the drawer and replace it.

And, clean out the slot for the drawer. Any filth lodged there can be wiped with a damp cloth.

Step 2: Clean the Rubber Door Seal

The rubber door seal is susceptible to water, lint, and dirt buildup. These are stink bug breeding grounds.

1. Mix some vinegar with warm water in a bowl.
2. Soak a cloth in the mixture and wipe out the rubber seal.
3. Raise the folds in the rubber to expose out-of-view areas.
4. Dry the seal with a new towel.

If there is mildew or black marks, you may use some bicarbonate of soda paste. Brush it off lightly with a toothbrush and rinse away.

Step 3: Cleaning the Drum

Time to give the inside of the machine a clean. The drum may look clean, but grime will find its way behind the holes and pipes.

You have two simple solutions:

Option 1: Bicarbonate of Soda and Vinegar

1. Fill two cups of white vinegar in the detergent drawer.
2. Add half a cup of bicarbonate of soda directly into the drum.
3. Run a hot wash cycle (around 60°C) with nothing in it.
4. The vinegar breaks down soap scum and kills bacteria, and the bicarbonate deodorises.

Option 2: Washing Machine Cleaner

Alternatively, if you prefer, use a commercial cleaner. Read the instructions on the packet, usually a hot wash with the cleaner in the drum.

Leave the door open for a few hours at the end of the cycle. This dries the drum out and stops mould from growing.

Step 4: Cleaning the Filter

The filter traps fluff, coins, and other loose objects that come off your clothes. If it becomes clogged, your washing machine will drain slowly or not at all.

1. Locate the filter (usually at the front bottom of your machine).
2. Place a towel beneath and a bowl nearby for water.
3. Twist the filter open slowly.
4. Drain any fluff or debris and wash in warm water.
5. Wash the outside and reinstall the filter by screwing it in place.

Cleaning your filter every month will prevent clogs and maintain your machine in good condition.

Step 5: Wash the Exterior

The outside of your washing machine needs some maintenance too. Finger prints, soap splashes, and dust can build up on the surface.

Wash the door, sides, and top with mild soap and wet cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach since they will damage the finish.

A clean outside not only looks more appealing, but it will also prevent dirt from seeping into the drum or drawer.

Step 6: Fresh Between Washes

Some simple habits will make your washing machine fresher for longer:

• Leave door and detergent drawer open after each wash to provide them ventilation.
• Remove wet clothes quickly. This avoids musty smells.
• Use the right amount of detergent. Too much soap creates residue and mould.
• Do a hot wash every month, even if you do most of your washing on low heat.

These simple steps take a long way to maintaining your washing machine in proper working condition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

With the best of intentions, some cleaning methods can result in more harm than benefit. Avoid repeating these common mistakes:

• Using too much vinegar: It’s great for cleaning, but overuse can damage rubber seals.
• Skipping regular cleans: Waiting until there’s a problem makes cleaning harder.
• Forgetting the filter: This can lead to leaks or drainage issues.
• Using bleach too often: Bleach can harm parts inside your machine.
• Stick to gentle, natural cleaning methods whenever possible.

When to Call for Help

If your washing machine still smells after a wash, or water’s not draining, it could need professional assistance.

A specialist engineer will look for blockages inside or mechanical problems. Cleaning maintains this, but wear and tear will come eventually.

A clean washer runs better, lasts longer, and saves you money. Regular maintenance means your clothes smell fresh and your utility bills are low.