Buzz
Although washing machines regularly work with soap, this does not mean they clean themselves. If your washing machine starts to smell, that odor will transfer to your clothes when you wash them. Chemical-based cleaning solutions can damage your washing machine, but you can create your own cleaning solution using vinegar and baking soda. Whether you have a top-loading or front-loading machine, you can clean it thoroughly and keep it smelling fresh!
Steps
Cleaning a Top-Loading Washing Machine
Set the machine to the longest and hottest cycle. Turn the dial to the largest load setting to allow water to fill the drum. Use the 'heavy duty' cycle if you can't set a specific time. Adjust the temperature setting to the hottest wash setting, then press the start button to fill the drum with water, and leave the lid open.
- If your washing machine has a 'tub clean' cycle, select that mode.
Ashley Matuska
Owner, Dashing Maids
Owner, Dashing Maids
The frequency of washing machine cleaning depends on how often you use it. Ashley Matuska, the owner of Dashing Maids, says: 'Personally, I do about 10 loads a week, so I clean my washing machine once a month. If you use your washing machine less often, you can clean it every other month. When I clean the machine, I run it on the cleaning cycle, or for older models, I set it to the largest load or longest cycle with hot water.'
Pour 1 liter of white vinegar into the drum. You can use regular cooking white vinegar. Pour the vinegar into the drum as the water fills it.
- Purchase a separate bottle of vinegar specifically for cleaning the washing machine so you don't have to grab it from the kitchen each time you clean.
Measure 1 cup (220 g) of baking soda into the water. Add the baking soda while the water fills the drum to ensure it dissolves completely. Baking soda reacts with vinegar to break up residue and clean the inside of the machine.
- Keep a separate container of baking soda in the laundry room to avoid mixing it with the baking soda used for cooking. This makes the cleaning process more convenient.
Stir the water in the drum and let it soak for 1 hour. Close the lid for 1 minute to allow the machine to begin the cycle. This step ensures that the baking soda, vinegar, and water fully dissolve and the cleaning solution circulates evenly inside the drum. After a minute, open the lid to stop the machine.
- Some washing machines automatically lock the lid once the cycle starts. Press the stop or pause button to unlock it and open the lid.
Use a toothbrush or dish sponge to clean the bleach, detergent, and fabric softener compartments. Dip the toothbrush into the water in the drum and scrub all the compartments. Focus on areas where mold has formed. After scrubbing, use a clean cloth to wipe away the residue.
- If a toothbrush isn't effective, try using a stiff-bristled brush or a dish sponge with a rough side.
- Soak removable parts in water for 20 minutes before scrubbing.
- Check the rubber seal around the lid. If there is any buildup, use the toothbrush to clean it off.
Close the lid to allow the washing machine to continue running. Close the lid and press the start button if the machine doesn't resume automatically. Wait for the cycle to finish, and the drum to empty of water.
- While the machine is running, use a damp cloth to wipe down the sides and top of the machine to save time.
Wipe down the walls and bottom of the drum after the cycle is complete. Use a clean cloth to wipe off any remaining dirt inside the washing machine. If necessary, dip part of the cloth in a mixture of 3 parts warm water and 1 part vinegar to scrub away stubborn stains.
- If there are still stains, run another cycle with 1 liter of vinegar.
- Leave the lid open between uses to prevent mold buildup and allow the drum to dry.
- Clean the washing machine monthly to maintain cleanliness.
Cleaning a Front-Loading Washing Machine
Remove mold from the rubber seal using vinegar and a dish sponge. Soak the dish sponge in a bowl of vinegar and scrub underneath the rubber seal of the washing machine door. If the mold doesn't come off, soak the area in vinegar for 20 minutes before scrubbing again. Dry the seal with paper towels.
- For stubborn mold, use a stiff-bristled toothbrush on the affected areas.
Pour half a liter of white vinegar into the drum. Pour the vinegar directly into the bottom of the drum. Be sure to close the washing machine door before moving on to the next step.
- If you notice a lot of grime buildup, add an extra half cup (120 ml) of vinegar to help dissolve the dirt.
Chris Willatt
Owner, Alpine Maids
Owner, Alpine Maids
Leave the washing machine door open to prevent odors. Chris Willatt, the owner of Alpine Maids, says, "Vinegar helps eliminate mold in the washing machine. To prevent mold from forming, you should leave the door slightly ajar after use so the interior can dry."
Mix baking soda with warm water and pour it into the detergent compartment. In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup (60 ml) of water with ¼ cup (55 g) of baking soda. Once the baking soda dissolves, pour the solution directly into the compartments for detergent, fabric softener, and bleach. This will ensure that all the compartments are cleaned during the wash cycle.
- If you use powder detergent, measure ¼ cup (55 g) of baking soda and add it directly to the powder compartment.
Run the machine on a regular cycle with hot water. Set the water temperature to the highest setting allowed by your machine. Use the regular wash cycle you normally use, or a heavy-duty wash cycle to give the cleaning solution time to penetrate the drum.
- The combination of hot water, vinegar, and baking soda will help break down and eliminate mold and grime in the drum.
Wipe the washing machine drum with a clean cloth after the cycle ends. Use a cloth soaked in clean water to remove any remaining mildew or dirt. If mildew remains after the cycle, use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub it away.
- Clean the washing machine monthly to maintain its cleanliness.
Advice
- Clean the washing machine monthly to ensure it operates efficiently and remains odor-free.
- Add a few drops of essential oil to the drum while cleaning to infuse a pleasant scent inside the machine.
Warning
- Vinegar can irritate the skin if you're sensitive. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.
Essential Items You Need
- Vinegar
- Baking soda
- Cleaning cloth
- Toothbrush
- Rubber gloves (optional)
