Your washing machine may be a champ at getting your clothes squeaky clean, but it also needs regular maintenance itself. Here are some of our best tips on how to clean your washing machine properly.
That fresh laundry feeling is wonderful—clean clothes and that unmistakable fresh linen smell. After a while, washing machines can stop being as effective, however. The best of us will have noticed that slightly “damp” smell lingering longer than it should, or bits of debris on your black sweater—we can help sort this out! First of all, let’s look at where the dirt actually comes from.
Due to low washing temperatures, grease and dirt accumulate in the washing machine over time. Using the right detergent can help prolong the cleanliness of your machine, but the rubber sealing ring on front loaders and the detergent compartment will get dirty eventually. This is, unfortunately, great for, and we‘ll show you how to clean your washing machine.
To clean the dispenser drawer of your washing machine, remove the drawer from your machine if it is removable (this should work without using force!). In modern machines, you can remove the drawer at the press of a button. Then you first clean the drawer with hot water, a sponge, and an old toothbrush for the corners. For more stubborn dirt, you can also soak the drawer in warm water.
While you’re soaking the drawer, you can clean the inside of your machine where your dispenser drawer normally sits. Diluted distilled vinegar is a good option here; it gets great results when used with a sponge and a toothbrush. It is important that you wipe the drawer clean and let the compartment dry before closing it again.
The sealing ring also requires regular care. They often contain tufts of hair and fluff. Therefore, when cleaning, it is essential to wipe out the sealing ring.
In case of a blockage, it’s necessary to clean the drain hose of your washing machine. To do this, first unscrew it from the drain pipe, take a large bucket and let the water pump out. Then you can remove it from the machine and clean it by hand.
So that you have less work when cleaning your washing machine, here’s a tip to help you find the best way to do laundry:
- Always leave the machine lid and the detergent compartment open if you can so that not only your laundry, but also your washing machine stays fresh.