A good washing machine will change your life. They’re time-efficient, simple to use, and perfect for large laundry loads. You simply can’t go wrong with investing in one — especially true if you’re stretched for time.
However, a moist washing machine is a breeding ground for mildew if the water is left to sit. Most manufacturers recommend that you deep clean your appliances every six months.
If you’ve noticed that your washing machine is looking a little grimy or that your fresh laundry is starting to smell a little funky, it might be time to wash the machines. Here are some easy DIY methods and steps on how to clean your washing machine.
Making a washing machine tub cleaner is daunting at first. You may be harboring a slight fear that using the wrong cleaning solution could ruin your clothes — but don’t worry. Most of the cleaning supplies you’ll need are fabric-friendly.
The tools you’ll need
To make your own washing machine drum cleaner, grab:
Some soft rags or a microfiber cloth.
An old toothbrush.
White vinegar.
Baking soda.
Hydrogen peroxide.
Dish soap.
Bleach.
It’s important to stress that you won’t be mixing all these household cleaning products. Some of the solutions should never be combined because they’ll create toxic fumes. Always read the labels and double-check what chemicals don’t mix.
Having all of these tools on hand allows you to pick and choose which method works best for a washing machine based on how dirty it currently is.
How to clean washing machines with vinegar and baking soda
Vinegar is an excellent, all-natural cleaner and must-have for any essential house cleaning checklist. It can remove almost anything because of the acidity in the solution. When you combine vinegar with baking soda, the resulting solution eliminates odors and is one of the best ways to clean a washing machine.
To make this solution:
Ensure your washing machine is dry and empty.
Turn the machine onto your hottest, largest wash cycle.
While the washing machine is filling up with water, add 3 cups of white vinegar. If it’s a top-loading washing machine, drop it in through the opening. For a front load washer, use the dispenser.
Once the machine is full, it’ll start to churn. Let it run for a few seconds. If you have a top-loading device, turn off the washing machine agitator (or the part of the machine that spins). You want the vinegar to mix fully with the water.
Next, add ½ cup of baking soda to the mix. Turn the washing machine back on.
Once the wash cycle is complete, let the mixture sit for an hour.
When the hour ends, finish the cleaning cycle to drain the water.
If you’re unsatisfied with the results, complete this process again.
Konstantin Yuganov - stock.adobe.com
How to clean a washing machine with bleach
Bleach is a heavy-duty cleaner that needs careful handling. Not only can it have a negative effect when mixed with other cleaning supplies, but it can damage your skin.
To make a laundry-safe solution:
Once again, begin your process with a dry, empty machine.
Turn your washing machine on a regular, warm wash rinse. Let it fill up with water.
In the detergent compartment, add one-half cup of bleach. If there’s a bleach chamber, fill it, too.
Run the wash through an entire warm rinse cycle.
You’ll find this method works wonders for destroying mold or mildew. It just needs some delicate handling, especially when working with other laundry room supplies.
Lana Langlois - stock.adobe.com
How to clean inside of a washing machine
Sometimes a simple wash with a cleaning solution isn’t enough to deal with the bacteria buildup; you’ll need to put a little elbow grease into it and wipe down the inside of the device by hand.
Grime can stick behind the lip of a front-loading washing machine door, hair can tangle at the bottom, or a filthy laundry load may leave debris or lint clinging to the sides.
To accomplish this task:
Make sure the washing machine is free of clothes or rinse water.
Grab your cleaning mix. If you’re doing a general scrub-down, simple water will do. If you have tougher water stains inside, try a blend of vinegar and water. It’s one of the best cleaners for washing machines.
Wet your rag with your solution. Use it to wipe down the sides of the machine drum and the door. You can also clean the fabric softener dispenser, the hoses, or the gaskets.
If you use a vinegar mix, follow it with a simple all-water wash to clean the surface.
Dry the areas afterward.
Once the wash cycle is complete, wash your hands with some hand soap, especially if they come into contact with the cleaning solution.
Other methods
Some other solutions that aren’t DIY include:
A washing machine’s self-cleaning cycle. Modern washing machines make cleaning easier by having a dedicated rinse cycle to walk you through the process.
Using premade tablets to clean your machine. Sometimes, DIY solutions aren’t the best option. If you’re short on time, buy some deep clean tablets from your local grocery store. Drop them in the detergent compartment and run a regular cycle.
jozzeppe777 - stock.adobe.com
How often do you need to clean washing machines?
Cleaning your washing machine every six months is ideal, but sometimes you’ll need to do it sooner. If you don’t take regular steps to air out your machine after each wash, you’ll need to clean your device more frequently, too. Mildew will grow.
Do you need some cleaning tablets or detergent for laundry day? Gopuff can deliver any cleaning solutions you need right to your front door.
