Washing machines are a household essential, quietly humming away in our laundry rooms, saving us countless hours and manual effort. We trust them with our clothes, linens, and the occasional muddy soccer jersey, yet how often do we think about cleaning the machine itself? It might sound counterintuitive—after all, it’s the machine that washes, right? Well, not quite. Over time, detergent residues, fabric softeners, and mineral buildup can accumulate inside the washer, creating an environment ripe for mold, bacteria, and unpleasant odors. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to effectively clean your washing machine to ensure it stays in optimal condition.
But before we dive into the details, let me tell you a quick story.
Storytelling Intro: The Forgotten Wash Cycle
Emily was preparing for her best friend’s wedding—a day she had anticipated for months. Her role as maid of honor demanded perfection, right down to her crisp, white dress. With only two days to go, she tossed the dress into her washing machine, trusting it to do what it had done countless times before. But this time was different. When Emily pulled her dress from the washer, it was covered in strange black spots, and an overpowering musty smell lingered in the fabric. Panicked, she inspected the machine, discovering a layer of grime and mold inside the rubber seals. Her trusty washing machine had been harboring filth all along.
Don’t let Emily’s experience happen to you. A dirty washing machine can wreak havoc on your clothes, leading to stains, smells, and bacteria being transferred during the wash. Proper maintenance ensures that your washing machine functions efficiently and hygienically.
Now, let’s get into how to clean it.
Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Is Important
How to clean a washing machine? A washing machine may seem self-cleaning, but that is a common misconception. The combination of warm water, detergent, and soiled fabrics creates an environment where dirt, bacteria, mold, and hard water minerals can build up over time.
Here are some compelling reasons why you should clean your washing machine regularly:
- Avoiding Bad Odors: A study by NSF International found that 60% of washing machines they tested had traces of mold and bacteria. These microorganisms can produce unpleasant smells that eventually transfer to your freshly washed clothes.
- Maintaining Performance: Built-up detergent and hard water scale can decrease your machine’s efficiency. According to the Energy Saving Trust, a cleaner washing machine can improve its overall performance, resulting in cleaner clothes and reduced energy consumption.
- Prolonging Lifespan: Regular maintenance can prolong the life of your appliance. According to HomeAdvisor, replacing a washing machine can cost between $400 and $2,500, depending on the model. Keeping it clean can delay costly repairs and replacements.
Now that you understand the “why,” let’s dive into the “how.”
How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?
Cleaning your washing machine isn’t something you should only do when there’s a noticeable problem. Experts recommend cleaning your washer every month or every 30 wash cycles, whichever comes first. This regular cleaning will prevent grime buildup and reduce the risk of mold and odors. Consumer Reports suggests that if you have hard water or wash clothes frequently in cold water, you might need to clean them more often.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Washing Machine
- Clean the Detergent Dispenser
The detergent drawer is a common area for mold and soap scum to collect. Follow these steps:
- Remove the drawer: Most washing machines have easily removable detergent compartments. If you’re not sure, check your manual.
- Soak in hot water: Let the drawer soak in a sink filled with hot, soapy water for 10-15 minutes.
- Scrub and rinse: Use a small brush (an old toothbrush works well) to clean all the nooks and crannies, then rinse thoroughly.
- Dry thoroughly: Wipe it dry before reinserting it into the machine.
- Clean the Door Seal (Rubber Gasket)
The rubber door seal, or gasket, is one of the most notorious places for collecting grime and mold, especially in front-loading washing machines.
- Wipe it down: Dampen a clean cloth with equal water and white vinegar.
- Focus on crevices: Pull back the rubber seal to reach into the folds where water and detergent tend to accumulate.
- Dry it completely: Mold thrives in moist environments, so after cleaning, leave the door open to let the gasket dry completely.
- Clean the Drum
Even though the drum may look clean, it’s essential to disinfect it to kill bacteria and remove lingering soap scum or mineral buildup.
- Pour 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum for a deep clean. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and disinfectant. Then, sprinkle half a cup of baking soda into the drum to neutralize any odors.
- Run a hot cycle: Run your washer on the most sizzling and extended cycles. This will help dissolve soap scum and kill any bacteria or mold inside.
- Wipe down afterward: After the cycle is complete, use a cloth to wipe down the drum to remove any remaining residue.
- Clean the Filter
Some washing machines, especially front-loaders, have a lint filter that can become clogged with hair, lint, and other debris over time.
- Locate the filter: Consult your user manual to find the filter, which is typically at the bottom of the machine.
- Remove debris: Take out the filter and clean it thoroughly under running water. Use a brush to remove any stubborn debris.
- Reinsert and secure: Once the filter is clean, reinsert it and ensure it’s properly secured.
- Clean the Exterior
The outside of your washing machine also collects dust, grime, and lint.
- Wipe it down: Use a cloth dampened with water and a mild cleaning solution or a mix of water and vinegar. Pay special attention to the control panel and the areas where detergent or fabric softener may have spilled.
- Polish: If your machine has a stainless steel surface, you can use a specialized stainless steel cleaner to make it shine.
Preventative Measures for Keeping Your Washing Machine Clean
Now that your washing machine is spotless, you’ll want to keep it that way. Here are some tips to maintain cleanliness:
- Leave the door open: After every wash, open the washing machine door to allow the inside to dry out. This will prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
- Use the right amount of detergent: Many people use too much, thinking it will result in cleaner clothes. However, excess detergent often leads to residue buildup inside the machine. Always follow the guidelines.
- Opt for high-efficiency (HE) detergent: If you have a washing machine, use HE detergent. Regular detergents can create excess suds, which lead to a buildup of soap scum and dirt.
- Use a washing machine cleaner: Consider running a washing machine cleaner once a month. These products are specifically designed to tackle limescale and detergent residues.
Conclusion
While your washing machine may not be at the forefront of your cleaning priorities, maintaining it can significantly impact the cleanliness of your clothes and the appliance’s lifespan. Regular upkeep will save you from costly repairs and keep your washer running smoothly. After all, if Emily had only taken a few simple steps to clean her washing machine regularly, she wouldn’t have faced a pre-wedding laundry disaster.
By following the cleaning steps outlined above, you’ll ensure that your washing machine continues to perform at its best—giving you fresh, clean clothes every time. So, when was the last time you cleaned your washing machine?
