The washing machine is one of the most used appliances in the home, but it is often forgotten to be cleaned and disinfected. This can lead to bad odors, stains on clothes, and breakdowns in the appliance. In this article, we will show you how to clean and disinfect your washing machine in 5 easy steps.
Why is it important to clean and disinfect the washing machine?
The washing machine is an ideal place for bacteria and fungi to grow and multiply. The humidity and warm temperature are ideal conditions for their growth. If not cleaned regularly, the washing machine can develop bad odors and stains on clothes. Additionally, the buildup of dirt and residue can cause breakdowns in the appliance.
How to disinfect and clean the washing machine?
To disinfect and clean the washing machine, you will need the following materials:
- White vinegar
- Bleach with chlorine
- An old toothbrush
- A clean cloth
- Hot water
How to do a washing machine cleaning?
Follow these 5 easy steps to clean and disinfect your washing machine:
Step 1: Clean the filter
The washing machine filter is one of the most important parts that you should clean regularly. If not cleaned, dirt and residue can accumulate, which can cause breakdowns in the appliance. To clean the filter, follow these steps:
- Turn off the washing machine and unplug it.
- Locate the filter at the bottom of the washing machine.
- Open the filter cover and remove any residue or dirt you find.
- Clean the filter with hot water and an old toothbrush.
- Replace the filter and close the cover.
Step 2: Clean the rubber seal
The rubber seal of the washing machine is another important part that you should clean regularly. If not cleaned, dirt and residue can accumulate, which can cause bad odors and stains on clothes. To clean the rubber seal, follow these steps:
- Mix one cup of white vinegar with one cup of hot water.
- Dampen a clean cloth with the vinegar and water mixture.
- Clean the rubber seal of the washing machine with the damp cloth.
- Use an old toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas.
- Rinse the rubber seal with clean water and dry with a clean cloth.
Step 3: Clean the drum
The drum of the washing machine is where clothes are placed for washing. If not cleaned regularly, dirt and residue can accumulate, which can cause bad odors and stains on clothes. To clean the drum, follow these steps:
- Mix one cup of bleach with chlorine with one cup of hot water.
- Pour the mixture into the drum of the washing machine.
- Run a full washing cycle in the washing machine with hot water.
- Once the washing cycle is complete, run another washing cycle with clean water to rinse the drum.
- Dry the drum with a clean cloth.
Step 4: Clean the detergent dispenser
The detergent dispenser is another important part that you should clean regularly. If not cleaned, dirt and residue can accumulate, which can cause bad odors and stains on clothes. To clean the detergent dispenser, follow these steps:
- Remove the detergent dispenser from the washing machine.
- Clean the dispenser with hot water and an old toothbrush.
- Rinse the dispenser with clean water and dry with a clean cloth.
- Replace the dispenser in its place.
Step 5: Maintain the washing machine in good condition
To maintain the washing machine in good condition, follow these additional tips:
- Leave the washing machine door open after each use to allow it to dry.
- Do not overload the washing machine, as this can cause breakdowns in the appliance.
- Clean the washing machine regularly to avoid the buildup of dirt and residue.
How to do a vinegar wash in the washing machine?
White vinegar is an excellent natural cleaner that you can use to clean and disinfect your washing machine. To do a vinegar wash in the washing machine, follow these steps:
- Pour two cups of white vinegar into the drum of the washing machine.
- Run a full washing cycle in the washing machine with hot water.
- Once the washing cycle is complete, run another washing cycle with clean water to rinse the drum.
- Dry the drum with a clean cloth.
How to wash the washing machine with vinegar?
To wash the washing machine with vinegar, follow these steps:
- Mix one cup of white vinegar with one cup of hot water.
- Dampen a clean cloth with the vinegar and water mixture.
- Clean the rubber seal of the washing machine with the damp cloth.
- Use an old toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas.
- Rinse the rubber seal with clean water and dry with a clean cloth.
Our advice
Keeping the washing machine clean and disinfected is essential to avoid bad odors, stains on clothes, and breakdowns in the appliance. Follow these 5 easy steps to clean and disinfect your washing machine regularly and prolong its lifespan. Additionally, follow the additional tips to maintain the washing machine in good condition and consider using appliance cleaning products for a deeper clean. Remember that the home insurance from Zurich Insurance can cover electrical problems that cause short circuits and damage to appliances.