Revitalize Your Washing Machine with These Simple Cleaning Tips

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Deep Cleaning Your Washing Machine

Enhance the effectiveness of your clothes washing by deep cleaning your washing machine. After all, while the washer uses detergent on each run, it doesn't clean itself. A thorough cleanse is necessary to ensure your machine is in top condition.

Depending on your washing machine type and whether you prefer a DIY or pre-made cleaner, there are several options for a deep clean. The good news is that none of these methods are labor-intensive. Continue reading to find out which one is the perfect fit for you.

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DIY Washing Machine Cleaners

If you prefer a DIY approach, there are several cleaning methods available for you to consider. However, not all of these items are compatible with one another, so choose one technique and stick to it. You can use peroxide, bleach, baking soda, vinegar, or borax - we provide detailed instructions for each method below.

Alternatively, you could choose a commercial cleaning tablet sold specifically for washing machines. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions if you decide to use a pre-made cleaner.

Safety Tip: Never mix vinegar and bleach.

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Cleaning a Front Load Washer

It is important to clean your front load washing machine regularly. Due to the way they are constructed, they are more likely to retain bad smells than top load washers - stagnant water in tight spaces can lead to the growth of mildew or mold. A thorough cleaning session can help flush away any unwanted odor and growth. Here is an overview of how to clean your front or side-load washing machine:

Soak and clean the washing machine tub, as well as all removable parts like detergent trays and drawers. Wipe down the exterior of the washer. Once the soaking cycle is done, scrub the door gasket with an old toothbrush. Wipe it down with either vinegar or bleach, but never both. Clean the filter, finish cleaning any detergent trays and parts that were soaking, and wipe the inside of the tub and door with a microfiber cloth. Use the same cloth to give the whole washer another once-over. If possible, leave the door open to allow for thorough drying.

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Cleaning a Top Load Washer

Cleaning a top load washing machine is typically simpler than cleaning a side or front load one. It is easier to let the cleaning solution soak in this type of washer. Here are the basic steps for cleaning a top load washing machine:

• Cleaning Your Washing Machine: A Comprehensive Guide

• Maintaining a clean washing machine is essential for its longevity and effectiveness. Here's what you need to do:
• Step 1: Clean the Wash Tub
  

Begin by wiping the interior of the wash tub with a microfiber cloth. In case your washer has a designated cleaning cycle, use it to clean the machine. Otherwise, use the following steps.

Step 2: Cleaning with Bleach

Empty the washer and set it to normal settings with warm water. Fill the bleach compartment with 1/2 cup of bleach. Run the washer.

Step 3: Cleaning with Peroxide

Fill the empty washer with 2 cups of hydrogen peroxide and run the washer on the cleaning or hottest setting.

Step 4: Cleaning with Vinegar and Baking Soda

Set your washer to the cleaning setting or the hottest/largest setting it has. As the washer fills with water, add 3 or 4 cups of white vinegar. Let it agitate, then let it soak for up to an hour. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda and agitate again. Soak for at least half an hour and then run the washer until it finishes.

Step 5: Cleaning with Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets

Drop one tablet of washing machine cleaner into the washer tub and run a normal cycle on the hottest water setting.

Step 6: Cleaning with Oxygen Bleach or Borax and Washing Soda

Put 2 tablespoons of oxygen bleach or borax and 2 tablespoons of washing soda in the tub for a front-load washer, and 1/2 cup for a top-loading machine. Run the biggest cycle at the hottest temperature or use the "clean tub" setting. Add vinegar to the dispenser tray or wash tub. Run another hot water cycle. Wipe the inside of the machine with a microfiber cloth once the last cycle is complete.

Step 7: Clean Other Removable Parts

Clean and soak your detergent trays, drawers, and removable parts. Wipe them down once they're soaked. Clean the remaining parts underneath the tub surround and the filter and agitator.

Step 8: Wipe Down the Outside and Prop Open

Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the exterior of the washing machine. Prop open the lid to ensure everything dries thoroughly.

By following these steps, you can keep your washing machine spotless and working optimally for years to come.

Clean Your Washing Machine's Door or Lid

Front load washing machines are notorious for their dirty doors. The rubber gasket around the door tends to attract lint, hair, and other debris. But don't think top load washers are immune – lint and hair can get stuck in the indentations around the top of the wash tub, and the lid can also get grimy.

Thankfully, cleaning the door or lid is a breeze. Simply dampen a clean cloth and wipe down the front, sides, top, and underside of the lid. Don't forget to clean under the inside lip of the lid, where old soap and lint can accumulate. Concerned about mold or mildew? Use a mixture of bleach and water, or opt for vinegar and water instead. Scrub well with a microfiber cloth or paper towel, then rinse with water and wipe it dry.

Clean Your Detergent Trays, Washer Parts, and Surfaces

If your washing machine has removable parts, it's important to give them a thorough cleaning to ensure that your machine stays in tip-top shape. Over time, powder or liquid detergent can build up and cause problems, and lint and debris can accumulate as well.

Remove any soap, fabric softener, or bleach dispensers from the machine and soak them in hot water. Use a microfiber cloth, old toothbrush, or small cleaning brushes to scrub away any grime. Rinse well, dry them thoroughly, and replace the parts. Don't forget to wipe down the outside of the machine too – lint, dust, and dirt can cling to any surface. A quick wipe down with a microfiber cloth will make your washer shine.

Clean Your Filter and Agitator

For a deep clean, it's important to clean your washing machine's filter and agitator. The process will vary depending on your machine, but generally, front load washers lack agitators. Unplug the machine before attempting to remove any parts.

Consult your owner's manual to learn how to remove the washing machine filter. For agitator models, you can use a socket wrench to remove the bolt holding the agitator in place. Once the bolt is out, lift the agitator from the machine and place it and the filter into a bucket of hot, soapy water. Alternatively, you can make a DIY cleaning solution by mixing 2 cups of vinegar, 1/4 cup of baking soda, and 1/4 cup of water. Use a soft bristle scrub brush to clean the parts thoroughly. Rinse and dry them with a microfiber cloth, and then replace the filter and agitator in the machine.

Now that you know how to clean your washing machine thoroughly, it's easier than ever to keep it in pristine condition. Order washing machine cleaner, bleach, and cleaning supplies and have them delivered straight to your door. We offer convenient online ordering and shipping options.