How to Wash a Laundry Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide
Why Washing Your Laundry Machine is Important
Even though it seems counterintuitive to clean a machine that handles soap and water regularly, your washing machine can accumulate residue and bacteria over time. Detergent residue, hard water minerals, and mold can create issues such as unpleasant odors, reduced efficiency, and even affect the freshness and cleanliness of your clothes. Learning how to wash a laundry machine can help you avoid these problems and extend the life of your appliance.
Essential Supplies Needed
Before diving into how to wash a laundry machine, gather the following supplies:
- White vinegar or a commercial washing machine cleaner (such as affresh® tablets)
- Baking soda
- Microfiber cloth or sponge
- Old toothbrush (optional)
- Liquid chlorine bleach (for some models)
- Damp cloth
- All-purpose cleaner (if needed)
- Mild soap or cleaner for exterior cleaning
Steps to Clean Your Laundry Machine
Step 1: Empty the Machine
To begin, ensure your laundry machine is completely empty. Remove any clothing, towels, or other items to prepare for cleaning.
Step 2: Run a Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar
Set your machine on the hottest water setting available. Add two cups of white vinegar directly into the drum and start a complete wash cycle. The vinegar will help break down dirt, soap scum, and mold buildup. If preferred, you can use a commercial cleaner specifically designed for washing machines, such as affresh® tablets, but ensure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 3: Scrub the Interior Components
While the vinegar wash cycle is running, dip a microfiber cloth or sponge into a mixture of vinegar and hot water. Use this to scrub the door seal, detergent dispenser, and any other components inside the machine. An old toothbrush is useful for reaching small or tricky areas. For front load washers, pay special attention to the rubber door seal, lifting the edge to clean the interior surfaces as well.
Step 4: Clean the Detergent Drawer and Filters
Remove the detergent drawer and clean it separately under running water using the vinegar solution. Additionally, consult your machine’s manual to locate and clean any filters. This step is crucial as these areas often harbor residue. Ensure to dry the dispenser thoroughly with a towel to prevent moisture buildup.
Step 5: Run a Rinse Cycle with Baking Soda
Once the vinegar cycle is complete, add half a cup of baking soda to the drum and run another hot water cycle. Baking soda helps neutralize any remaining odors and cleans the interior of the machine.
Step 6: Clean the Agitator (For Top-Load Washers)
If your top-load washing machine has an agitator, you can clean it as part of the deep cleaning process. If the agitator has a removable cap, gently remove it and manually clean the inside with a cloth or scrub brush. If the cap does not easily come off, do not force it; instead, check your owner’s manual for guidance.
Step 7: Clean the Outside of the Washer
Use a soft, damp cloth or sponge to wipe away any spills, dirt, and dust from the exterior of the washer. Be sure to use only mild soaps or cleaners when cleaning outside surfaces to avoid damaging the finish.
Additional Tips for Maintenance
Leave the Door Open
Leave your washer’s door or lid open between washes to allow it to air out and help prevent mold and mildew from growing. This is particularly important for front load washers due to their design.
Use Recommended Detergent Amounts
Using the recommended amount of detergent is crucial to avoid buildup. Too much detergent can cause problems and lead to residue accumulation inside the machine.
Clean Regularly
Clean your washing machine every 30 wash cycles or at least once a month. Some machines have specific cleaning cycles, so check your owner’s manual for instructions. Regular cleaning helps maintain the machine’s efficiency and prevents odors.
Use Warm or Hot Water Occasionally
Occasionally washing with warm or hot water can help slow down soil and detergent buildup. This is especially beneficial for maintaining the cleanliness of your washer and preventing mold growth.
Check and Clean Dispensers Frequently
Clean the detergent dispensers thoroughly every 30 days. You can scrub the dispensers with a toothbrush to ensure they are fully cleaned. For removable dispensers, soak them in warm vinegar to loosen any excess buildup.
By following these steps and tips, you can ensure your washing machine operates efficiently, keeps your clothes smelling fresh, and extends the life of your appliance. Regular maintenance is key to preventing unwanted odors and maintaining the overall hygiene of your laundry machine.
Q: How often should I clean my washing machine?
A: It is recommended to clean your washing machine every 30 to 60 days to prevent residue build-up and odors.
Q: What supplies do I need to clean my washing machine?
A: You will need white vinegar, baking soda, a microfiber cloth, and an old toothbrush for scrubbing.
Q: Can I use vinegar to clean my washing machine?
A: Yes, vinegar is an effective natural cleaner that can help remove odors and mineral deposits from your washing machine.
Q: How do I clean a front-loading washing machine?
A: Run a hot water cycle with 2 cups of vinegar, wipe the door seal with a vinegar solution, and then run another cycle with 1 cup of baking soda.
Q: How do I clean a top-loading washing machine?
A: Fill the drum with hot water, add 4 cups of vinegar, let it sit for an hour, then run a wash cycle and add 1 cup of baking soda for a second cycle.
Q: How do I clean the detergent tray?
A: Remove the detergent tray, soak it in warm soapy water, scrub with an old toothbrush, and rinse thoroughly before replacing it.
Q: What can I do to prevent mold and mildew in my washing machine?
A: Leave the washer door open between cycles, use high-efficiency detergent, and regularly clean the door seal and drum.
Q: How do I clean the washing machine filter?
A: Locate the filter (usually at the bottom front of the machine), remove it, rinse under running water, and clear any trapped debris.
Q: Is it necessary to clean the washing machine’s drum regularly?
A: Yes, regularly cleaning the drum helps prevent mold, mildew, and foul odors and ensures efficient washing performance.
Q: Can I use commercial washing machine cleaners?
A: Yes, commercial washing machine cleaners are designed for easy maintenance and can be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
| Recommendation | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| White vinegar or commercial cleaner | Effective at breaking down residue and odors | Vinegar may not be strong enough for heavy buildup |
| Baking soda | Neutralizes remaining odors | Requires an additional cycle to implement |
| Microfiber cloth or sponge | Safe for scrubbing without scratching | Needs regular washing/replacement |
| Old toothbrush (optional) | Helpful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas | Usage might be time-consuming |
| Liquid chlorine bleach (for some models) | Powerful disinfectant | Not suitable for all machine models |
| Damp cloth | Easy to wipe away spills and dust | Might not be effective on stubborn stains |
| All-purpose cleaner (if needed) | Versatile for various surfaces | Can contain strong chemicals; check compatibility |
| Mild soap or cleaner for exterior cleaning | Safe for touching surfaces | May not be effective against grease or heavy stains |
| Leave the door open | Prevents mold and mildew growth | Requires consistency and attention |
| Use recommended detergent amounts | Prevents detergent buildup | Requires careful measuring and compliance |
| Clean regularly | Maintains machine efficiency and hygiene | Additional time and effort needed |
| Use warm or hot water occasionally | Reduces soil and detergent buildup | May not be suitable for all fabrics |
| Check and clean dispensers frequently | Prevents residue accumulation | Requires regular maintenance effort |
