Steps to clean washing machine

 

With the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic, the frequency of washing clothes has significantly risen. However, the cleanliness of the washing machine is rarely a priority. The warm and moist environment in the washing machines can also be a massive breeding ground for bacteria, resulting in odors and contamination of clothes. Moreover, inlet filters may also get clogged up, leading to insufficient water supply and inefficient performance. Calling a service provider might seem to be a simple solution, but the frequent necessity shall make it quite expensive and inconvenient.

Hence, here are some guidelines that can be followed easily at home to self-clean your washing machine, keeping the machine and clothes healthy and odor-free.

Step 1: Run a hot cycle

For front-loading machines, run a hot cycle within the empty machine to get rid of leftover detergent, and then wash using a 40-degree wash with a washing machine cleaner to get rid of odors. For a top-loader, run the same hot cycle followed by a second hot wash with a washing machine cleaner to get rid of the odor, let it swish around for 30 seconds, and leave it to stand for 30 minutes to an hour.

Step 2: Check the seal

Clutter, including lint, coins, notes, and paper clips, often get caught by the door seal. To get rid of unwanted material, swipe your dry hand around the seal and then wipe it down with a damp cloth. This will ensure a clean seal and prohibit dirt from making its way to the filter.

Step 3: Clean the detergent drawer and machine door

Remove the detergent drawer and soak it in a bowl or sink. If necessary, you can also add bleach to the hot water if it’s too dirty. Wipe inside the hole where the dispenser drawer was located. Use a toothbrush to remove any residues leftover in the drawer before replacing it in the machine. Lastly, give the interior a good wipe with a damp cloth for a final clean. You can even add anti-bacterial to kill any living bacteria.

Step 4: Clean the filter

Uncleaned dirt inside the seal often comes down to the filter, causing the washer to stop draining water from the tub. After locating the filter, take it out and soak it in water until it is clean. Then, wipe it around to catch any debris and leave it to dry completely. However, consult your manual for differences in the procedure according to the machine.

After the wash is done, always remember to take the clothes out as soon as possible to avoid a musty smell and leave the door open for the machine to dry out. Cleaning the machine on a regular basis with a damp cloth and mild detergent from time to time can do a great deal. A thorough cleaning once a month and a weekly hot wash shall keep the machine fresh. Many washing machines from top brands such as Samsung, Sharp, LG, and Whirlpool also come with a self-clean feature for a clean machine with the push of a button. However, it varies between machines, and it is best to take a look at the user manual to avoid mistakes.