Your washing machine is an essential piece of equipment that keeps your clothes clean and fresh. However, with time, it may gather filth, mold, and other contaminants that may impair its functionality and the cleanliness of your laundry. Deep cleaning your washing machine on a regular basis helps keep it clean, guarantees optimal performance, and reduces odors. In this blog, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step procedure for giving your washing machine a thorough cleaning that will leave it shining and smelling wonderful.

I. Gather Your Supplies

Make sure you have all the tools and resources needed for a comprehensive deep clean before starting the cleaning procedure. What you’ll need is as follows:

1. White vinegar: A powerful natural cleaner that aids in removing mineral deposits, odor, and bacteria.
2. Baking soda: a multipurpose cleaning substance that eliminates stains and neutralizes odors.
3. Microfiber cloth: Perfect for cleaning the machine’s exterior.
4. A toothbrush or small scrub brush: Useful for eliminating stubborn grime and cleaning difficult-to-reach spots.
5. Hot water: Essential for cleaning up dirt and grime.

II. Clean the Exterior

1. Unplug the machine: Security first! Make sure your washing machine is unplugged from the power source before beginning any cleaning tasks.
2. Wipe down the exterior: Use warm water to dampen a microfiber cloth and gently clean the machine’s exterior. Pay close attention to any buttons, control knobs, or other components that could accumulate dust and debris.

III. Deep Clean the Drum

1. Run a hot water cycle: Set the machine to the longest cycle, add hot water to the drum, and let it run. Any dirt or residue inside the drum is made easier to remove by hot water.
2. Add vinegar: Two cups of white vinegar should be added to the detergent dispenser or the drum once the drum has been filled with water. Natural disinfectants like vinegar can help get rid of odor-causing mineral deposits and other buildup.
3. Let the vinegar sit: Stop the washing machine and let the hot water and vinegar solution soak for about an hour. This will give the vinegar sufficient time to eliminate any tenacious buildup.
4. Resume the cycle: Restart the cycle and let it run for a further hour. The drum will be thoroughly cleaned with vinegar and hot water.

IV. Tackle the Detergent Dispenser and Filter

1. Remove the detergent dispenser: Detergent dispensers are typically detachable in washing machines. Remove it and thoroughly clean it with warm water and a light detergent. To get into the crevices, use a toothbrush or a small scrub brush.
2. Clean the filter: Locate the filter, which is typically found at the machine’s front bottom. Remove it and wash it in warm water to get rid of any lint or debris that may have gotten stuck. If the filter is seriously clogged, gently scrape it with a toothbrush.

V. Final Touches

1. Wipe down the rubber seal: A common spot for mold and mildew to grow is the rubber seal surrounding the door. To completely clean it, use a solution of water and vinegar in equal parts. Make a mixture out of baking soda and water, apply it to the moldy areas, and scrub delicately.
2. Run a rinse cycle: Finally, perform a second hot water rinse cycle to make sure all vinegar or cleaning solution is completely drained out.

Conclusion

Deep cleaning your washing machine is a crucial maintenance activity that needs to be carried out on a regular basis to keep it in the best possible condition and prevent odors. You can guarantee a spotless machine, fresher clothes, and an easier laundry routine by following the detailed step-by-step instructions above. For any unique cleaning suggestions or directions, don’t forget to check the machine’s manual. Your washing machine will continue to serve you well for years to come with a little effort.