To mitigate bad smells, consider not just cleaning your washing machine but also adjusting your detergent use. Overusing detergent generates excessive suds that your washer can't fully rinse away, leading to a buildup where mildew, bacteria, and mould can flourish.
How to clean your washing machine effectively？
Your washing machine, despite being designed for cleaning and regularly coming into contact with soap, doesn't have the ability to clean itself. Similar to your shower, bath, and sinks, you need to take matters into your own hands and clean it yourself. Fortunately, this task is surprisingly straightforward, simply adhere to these 7 easy steps:
Step 1: Examine your manual and verify the temperature settings
Before initiating any cleaning or maintenance, it's vital to consult your washing machine's manual for any products that the manufacturer prohibits for cleaning or descaling. There's usually a valid reason behind these warnings, and it's advisable to adhere to them to avoid safety hazards, warranty invalidation, or machine damage.
Moreover, it's wise to start by examining your machine's temperature settings. Specifically, identify the hottest setting and its cycle duration, as this information will help you determine the overall length of the cleaning process.
Step 2: It's important to keep the detergent drawer clean. Make sure to give it a thorough cleaning regularly
The detergent drawer can swiftly accumulate detergent and fabric softener residue, which can be stubborn to remove and quite unpleasant. Therefore, we advise taking out the drawer entirely and soaking it in hot, soapy water.
While the drawer is soaking, utilize this time to clean the compartment it sits in. Use a toothbrush and microfiber cloth to scrub away any soap scum and mold build-up. Once that's taken care of, proceed to finish cleaning the drawer with the same tools. Ensure both the compartment and drawer are thoroughly dried before reinstalling the drawer.
Step 3: Regularly drain and thoroughly clean the filter to ensure its proper function
Lint and debris are trapped in the filter, which can become quite disgusting if not cleaned regularly. To ensure you clean it properly, consult your washing machine's manual first, as every machine is unique and filters may vary in location and access method. Our cleaning advice is general and some steps may not apply to your specific machine.
Begin by placing a towel and bowl under the filter, then position the emergency drain tube into the bowl and release the cap to drain the water into the bowl. You may need to empty and replace the bowl if it fills up before all the water is drained.
Next, carefully take off the drain filter cover, being mindful of any trapped water. Remove lint and debris from the filter, and if there's significant build-up, soak it in hot, soapy water. Once the filter is clean, reinstall it.
Step 4: Run the hottest cycle suitable for your fabric to ensure thorough cleaning
To clean the drum and interior of your washing machine, the simplest and most effective method is to run the hottest cycle with a specialized cleaner. Opt for a manufacturer-recommended product or use a cup of white vinegar as an alternative.
Certain washing machine models, like those from AEG or Beko, offer a dedicated self-cleaning cycle. If your machine doesn't have one, refer to your manual to find the hottest cycle and run it.
Step 5: Keep the rubber seals clean
The rubber seal is prone to accumulating soap suds, lint, and water, making it an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew. Hence, frequent wiping is highly recommended. To clean it, dampen a microfiber cloth with vinegar and thoroughly wipe down the seal, lifting it to reach all crevices. For a deeper clean, scrub it with a toothbrush dipped in bicarbonate of soda. After cleaning, dry it with a clean, dry cloth.
Step 6: Clean the outside surface and window
After achieving a sparkling clean interior for your washing machine, conclude the cleaning process by wiping down the exterior. Simply dampen a microfiber cloth with hot, soapy water and wipe down all surfaces, including the knobs, dials, and sides of the machine, ensuring no area is missed.
Step 7: Optionally, sanitize your washing machine using bleach.
As a final optional step, consider disinfecting your washing machine with bleach. However, before proceeding, it's crucial to consult your user manual, as using bleach may void your warranty if not approved by the manufacturer.
Bleach is extremely hazardous if it comes into contact with skin, eyes, or if ingested. Therefore, always wear gloves and take necessary precautions when handling bleach products.
To disinfect, add half a cup of bleach to both the detergent drawer and the drum. Run the hottest cycle with an empty drum. If possible, pause the cycle once the drum is filled with water and let it sit for 45 minutes to an hour. Resume and complete the cycle, followed by an extra rinse cycle to remove all bleach residue. To further ensure no bleach remains, wipe down the inside of the door and seals with a damp cloth.
Is it possible for vinegar to cause harm to your washing machine?
Employing vinegar in your washing machine poses no risk of damage to either the machine or your clothing. A mixture of hot water and vinegar creates a powerful cleaning solution, effectively removing dirt and inhibiting bacterial growth within the drum and around the lid.
Concerns about laundry smelling like vinegar are common, but unnecessary. Vinegar acts as a natural deodorizer, helping to neutralize odors. Furthermore, the vinegar scent will dissipate during the rinse cycle. For those still uncertain, adding a few drops of essential oils to the vinegar can enhance its fragrance before use.
Beyond cleaning your washing machine, vinegar offers numerous benefits when included in your laundry cycle:
· Gently softens fabrics naturally
· Enhances brightness and whitens fabrics
· Minimizes lint and pet hair accumulation
· Cleans and maintains your washing machine
· Eliminates mildew odors
· Combats underarm odor effectively
· Fades away hem lines
· Preserves the darkness of dark clothing
Choose reliable washing machine controllers at elecontro®
With more than twenty years of expertise in home appliance control, elecontro® is a professional manufacturer of washing machine controls that perfectly meet your individual requirements and preferences. elecontro®'s dynamic team of visionary engineers and designers continue to push the boundaries of home appliance control technology, ensuring we remain at the forefront of innovation.
