A clean washing machine means fresh-smelling laundry. The best way to clean a washing machine is to run it on a full cycle with vinegar, bleach, or a commercial cleaner to keep your clothes smelling fresh. A smelly washing machine hints towards a neglected washer with accumulated grime, detergent residue, and dirt. The gasket in front-load washers traps moisture, which can lead to mould and mildew growth. Dirty washing machine filters harbour bacteria and foul smells, and reduce the cleaning effectiveness of your laundry. Cleaning the washing machine correctly and frequently is vital for a pleasant-smelling laundry and a fresh home.
Easy Steps to Clean Your Washing Machine for Fresh Laundry
Are you feeling unsatisfied with your laundry results? Your washed clothes don’t seem as fresh and crisp as before? Cleaning the washing machine may not cross your mind until you feel your laundry efforts don’t yield the desired results. It is essential to clean the washing machine every three months to remove bacteria and mould. ensuring bright, clean clothes. Increase the frequency to at least once a month for heavily soiled clothes.
Following the simple tips and steps mentioned below, you can clean your washing machines effectively and hassle-free.
Gather your supplies
It may seem time-consuming, but the benefits of cleaning a washing machine outweigh the inconvenience you might face later. Gather your supplies like the baking soda, vinegar, bleach (whichever you want to use), a commercial washing machine cleaner, a measuring cup, a soft brush, a soft cloth, gloves, and an old toothbrush.
Run an empty hot wash cycle
To get rid of foul washing machine smells, first, run an empty hot wash cycle. Optionally, you can add a half cup of bleach in the detergent compartment. Run a complete wash and rinse cycle and drain before you move on to the next step of cleaning a smelly washing machine. Follow the instructions on the bottle about the usage quantity if you’re using a commercial cleaner. Soak your dispenser drawer with the washing machine cleaner of your choice to loosen any buildup.
Interesting fact: Reducing the temperature on our washing machines by just 10 degrees dramatically reduces greenhouse gas emissions. |
Scrub the interior of your front loader
Prepare a mixture of equal parts baking soda and vinegar and apply this paste to the interior of your washing machine using a soft brush. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Start scrubbing all over the interior, including the gasket in the front-loading washers. Scrub the drum and clean in and around the door in case of front-loaders. Don’t forget to clean the detergent drawer. Your washing machine and the dispenser drawer need to be cleaned every thirty days, especially in case of heavy loads, to get rid of any lingering washing machine smells.
Clean the filter
Cleaning the filter and the agitator with the washing machine cleaner is essential for effective, deep cleaning. Lift out the agitator if it's possible and soak it in hot, soapy water. Remove any lint or accumulated grime from the filter mesh using an old soft toothbrush. Wash it under running water and use a cleaning solution to remove any bacteria. Inspecting and cleaning the washing machine filter regularly ensures your laundry stays fresh after each wash. Air dry before reassembling them.
Wipe clean the interior and exterior
Using a soft cloth, gently wipe clean the interior and the exterior of your washing machine. The best way to clean a washing machine is to clean the gasket seal after every wash to prevent it from becoming a breeding ground for mould and bacteria. Using a mild cleaner and a soft sponge, wipe away any dirt and dust on the outside of your washing machine.
Did you know? The biggest expenditure of energy in the laundry process is due to the water temperature we select on our washing machines, and the modern detergents are effective in colder water. |
Run a second hot cycle
After thoroughly scrubbing the interior and cleaning all the hard-to-reach areas, run another hot cycle with a commercial cleaner or baking soda solution to rinse away all the dirt and neutralise the odours. Inspect the clean washing machine to determine if it requires another quick rinse cycle or not in case of any left behind residues. Leave the door open to air dry.
Tips to Achieve Fresh Laundry Each Time
To make your laundry smell good, here are some quick tips on how to care for your fabrics and the washing machine.
Washing clothes on shorter, cooler cycles reduces microfiber shedding by up to 30 %.
Never use vinegar and bleach together.
Clean the door gasket after every wash.
Regularly clean the detergent trays and the filter, and wipe the exterior every week.
The combination of baking soda and vinegar effectively addresses any mould issues and foul smells.
Leave your washer door open between washes to dry out the insides and prevent mould buildup.
Remove damp clothes immediately after the cycle is over to prevent odours and colour transfer.
Never use vinegar directly on gaskets, and dilute it with water before pouring.
Do smaller loads of laundry every time.
Fast fact: The first top-load washing machine was commercialised immediately after the Second World War. |
Conclusion
Bacteria, mould, and rotting debris can make your washing machine smell awful. Regularly and properly cleaning the washing machine once every three months makes a big difference in your laundry results. By following the simple method mentioned above, you can increase the effectiveness of your laundry and extend the lifespan of your washing machine.
FAQs
- How to know if my washing machine needs to be cleaned?If your laundry doesn’t smell fresh and has residues on it, it's time to clean your washing machine.
- What is the disadvantage of using vinegar?Its strong odour and the ability to harm the surface are vinegar’s big disadvantages.
- How can I quickly make my washing machine smell fresh?Deodorise with baking soda for a fresh-smelling washing machine.
- How often should I clean my washing machine?In case of excessive use, clean it every three months, sooner if possible.
- Can I use dishwasher tablets to clean my washing machine?Manufacturers warn against it as the chemicals in it may not be safe for your machine.
About Author : Eagan Taylor
Hey! I'm Eagan Taylor, I'm a versatile writer with a passion for crafting engaging and thought-provoking content. With a broad range of interests and expertise in various subjects, I can write on multiple topics about local businesses.
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