It’s easy to forget that a washing machine, the very appliance that cleans your clothes, also needs regular attention. But don’t worry — keeping a washing machine in its best condition is simpler than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to deodorizing and cleaning a washing machine using household items you already own.
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto
Why clean a washing machine?
Neglecting to clean your washing machine can lead to a buildup of detergent residue, dirt and even mold. This can affect the machine’s performance, resulting in unpleasant odors and less effective laundry cycles. Regular cleaning ensures that the washing machine runs efficiently and your clothes come out clean and smelling fresh every time.
What you will need
Before diving into the nitty-gritty, start by gathering your supplies:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- A measuring cup
- A microfiber cloth
- An old toothbrush
Step-by-step cleaning process
This cleaning method works perfectly well for both top-loaders and front-loaders, tackling common issues like buildup and odors. For optimal performance, aim to deep clean your washing machine using this method every three to five months. If you’re a family with young kids and you do multiple loads of heavily soiled clothes a week, you might want to do it more frequently.
Tackle the detergent drawer
The detergent drawer is a hotspot for buildup. Remove it entirely if possible, and soak it in warm, soapy water. Use a cloth or brush to scrub away any detergent residue, dry it and return to its place.
Clean the tub
Start by pouring 2 cups of baking soda directly into the drum. If your washing machine has the tub clean option, select it and run the cycle. If you have an older machine, run the normal cycle, selecting the hottest possible temperature. The baking soda will act as a mild abrasive and scrub the inner parts of the drum and the drum itself. It will also neutralize any lingering odors and leave the drum fresh and clean.
As a second step, measure two cups of white vinegar, open the detergent drawer and start pouring the vinegar into the detergent tray. After the detergent tray is full, pour the vinegar into the pre-wash and other trays. Like with the baking soda, either run a tub clean cycle or a normal cycle, selecting the hottest temperature. The vinegar will help dissolve soap scum and disinfect the interior removing odor-causing bacteria and gunk.
Clean the gasket
Next, give some attention to the gasket, which is the rubber seal around the door. Wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any debris, mildew, lint and hair. Use a toothbrush dipped in baking soda to scrub away any stubborn grime. This area is often overlooked but can harbor mold and unpleasant odors if not cleaned regularly.
Clean the filter
The filter is another area that can accumulate gunk over time. Depending on your machine, this might be located near the bottom front. Carefully remove the filter by turning it counterclockwise, keeping a cloth handy to catch any water. Rinse the filter under warm water, using a brush to dislodge any trapped debris. Once clean, reattach it securely by turning it clockwise.
“Cleaning your washing machine a few times a year makes a big difference. I’ve found that running a hot cycle with vinegar or baking soda helps eliminate odors, mildew and soap buildup. Keeping up with this routine not only extends the life of the machine but also ensures that my family’s laundry comes out fresher.”
— Jessica Haggard, Easy Homemade Life
Photo by RDNE Stock project
Maintenance tips
To keep your washing machine in top condition, it’s important to adopt a few regular maintenance habits. After each wash, leave the door open to allow the interior to air out, preventing moisture buildup and the growth of mold and mildew. Don’t skip this step, as keeping mold at bay contributes to a healthier home environment. Also, make a habit of wiping down the drum, door and gaskets with a dry cloth to remove any lingering moisture or detergent residue.
In addition to regular deep cleanings, consider running an empty hot water cycle with vinegar once a month. This helps break down any detergent buildup and keeps the machine smelling fresh. Also, remember to check and clean the filter periodically, as a clogged filter can reduce efficiency and lead to unpleasant odors. By incorporating these simple maintenance steps, you can extend the lifespan of your washing machine and ensure it continues to perform at its best.
One last thing
Regularly cleaning and maintaining your washing machine is essential for keeping it running efficiently and ensuring your laundry stays fresh. By following these simple steps, from thorough cleanings to routine maintenance, you can prevent buildup, reduce odors and extend the life of your machine. With just a little effort, your washing machine will continue to deliver the clean, fresh clothes you rely on every day. While you’re at it, you might want to deep clean your dishwasher as well.
Tamara Tsaturyan is the owner and writer of Thriving In Parenting, a website focused on providing simple tips for busy parents — easy and healthy recipes, home decor and organization ideas and all things parenting.
This article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.