How to Deep Clean A Washing Machine
How to Deep Clean A Washing Machine
Your washing machine is essential to keeping your clothes fresh and clean. However, even though it is cleaning your laundry, it can still accumulate dirt, grime, and even odour-causing bacteria. This complete guide will dive into the importance of maintaining a clean washing machine and provide step-by-step instructions on achieving an easy yet thorough clean using Dettol and other common household products.
By following this guide, you’ll say goodbye to stains and smells and hello to fresher laundry! Here’s how to deep clean a washing machine:
Why you need to deep clean a washing machine
Unfortunately, over time, MarthaStewert.com tells us that neglected washing machines can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria, dirt, and grime, leading to unpleasant effects such as:
Stained or discoloured clothes:
When dirt and grime accumulate in the drum or on the agitator, they can transfer onto your garments during the wash cycle, leaving unsightly marks that are difficult to remove.
Unpleasant odours:
A neglected washing machine can emit unpleasant odours that permeate your freshly laundered clothes. The build-up of dirt, detergent residue, and bacteria within the machine often causes lingering smells. This affects the cleanliness of your laundry and can leave your garments smelling damp.
A build-up of dirt and grime in your washing machine:
Frequent use, especially with larger loads or heavily soiled items, can contribute to the accumulation of dirt and detergent residue. Also, using liquid fabric softeners or low-quality detergents can leave a sticky residue inside the machine that attracts more dirt over time and decreases the washing machine's performance.
To prevent these problems from happening, or if your machine needs some extra love and attention, you’ll need to arm yourself with the right products to get the job done.
Products for deep cleaning your washing machine
Before you start deep cleaning the machine, you’ll need a combination of specialised cleaning products and everyday household items such as:
- Dettol 5-in-1 Antibacterial Washing Machine Cleaner: This specially formulated cleaner targets and helps to eliminates tough stains, grime, and bacteria that can accumulate in your washing machine, leaving your device fresh and clean.
- Dettol Mould and Mildew Remover Spray: This powerful spray effectively tackles mould and mildew growth, a common issue in washing machines. It helps to prevent bacteria buildup and ensures a hygienic cleaning process.
- Dettol Disinfectant Spray: This all-purpose disinfectant spray can be used to sanitise the exterior surfaces of your washing machine, which helps to kill germs and bacteria.
- Lemon juice or white vinegar: These everyday household items act as natural cleaners and deodorisers. The acidity of lemon or white vinegar helps to dissolve mineral deposits, remove soap scum, and eliminate odours from your washing machine.
- Microfiber cloth or sponge: Ideal for wiping down the exterior surfaces of your washing machine. They are soft and non-abrasive, so you won’t scratch or damage the machine’s finish.
- Old toothbrush: An old toothbrush is handy for scrubbing hard-to-reach areas and crevices, such as the detergent dispenser and filter. It allows you to agitate and dislodge dirt and grime.
- Warm water: Using warm water helps improve the cleaning products’ effectiveness and longevity by loosening and dissolving stubborn residue and stains.
Steps for deep cleaning your washing machine
Next, we'll go into the process of washing machine deep cleaning. By following these steps, you'll improve your machine's performance and ensure your next laundry load comes out fresher than ever.
- How to wash the washing machine:
Start by cleaning the exterior surfaces of your washing machine. Firstly, unplug the appliance, then use mild detergent and a damp cloth to wipe down the control panel, buttons, and other accessible parts. Pay attention to areas that may accumulate grime, such as the door handle and the top of the machine. Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. - How to clean the washing machine drum
Add Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner according to the product instructions to the drum, or use a mixture of lemon juice or white vinegar and water. Let the machine run a complete cycle at 60oC without any clothes. This will help remove detergent residue, mineral deposits, and lingering odours. Once the cycle is finished, wipe the drum with a clean cloth to remove any loosened debris. Leave the door open and allow the drum to air dry. - How to clean the washing machine filter
Remove the detergent dispenser and soak it in warm soapy water. Use an old toothbrush to scrub away any residue or buildup. Rinse the dispenser and allow it to dry before placing it back into the machine.
Next, locate the filter at the bottom front of the device. Check the machine's instruction manual on removing and cleaning the filter, as this may differ depending on if you have a top or front-load washing machine. Use a non-abrasive brush or an old toothbrush to remove any debris or lint. Rinse the filter and reinstall it securely. - Addressing lingering odours:
If your washing machine emits a damp smell, you can quickly reduce it using Dettol Mould and Mildew Remover Spray or a mixture of white vinegar and water. Spray or apply the solution to the rubber seal, drum, and other affected areas.
Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the solution to reduce the odours. Scrub the areas gently with a soft brush or cloth, paying extra attention to any visible mould or mildew. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Regularly deep cleaning your washing machine will help maintain its performance, extend its lifespan, and keep your laundry fresh and clean.
Regular Washing Machine Maintenance Tips
Properly maintaining your washing machine will keep it running efficiently and prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. Here's how to easily factor it into your routine:
Regular cleaning: Make it a habit to clean your washing machine every 2 months to prevent the accumulation of dirt, detergent residue, and mould. Regular cleaning with Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner will help maintain the machine's performance and keep your laundry smelling fresh.
Adopt Good Practices: Adopt good laundry practices to prevent excessive dirt and residue buildup in your washing machine. These include:
- Avoiding overloading the machine with clothes, which can strain the motor and prevent proper cleaning.
- Sorting your laundry by colour and fabric type to prevent colour bleeding and damage.
- Using the right amount of detergent for each load. While it may be tempting to use more than necessary to get a cleaner wash, too much detergent can actually leave behind a sticky residue that attracts more dirt.
Preventing Future Buildup: Taking preventive measures can help minimise the buildup of dirt and grime in your washing machine. Using Dettol Disinfectant Spray regularly to sanitise the machine's surfaces, including the drum and rubber seals, will kill bacteria and lingering odours. Additionally, periodically using Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner inside the drum can help maintain a clean and fresh-smelling machine.
By prioritising regular deep cleaning and using Dettol's range of disinfectants and cleaning sprays, you can enjoy a refreshing laundry experience, improve the longevity of your machine and promote better hygiene for you and your household. Before trying new laundry products and cleaning techniques on your washing machine, always refer to our expert advice hub, where we show you how to clean your washing machine seal and other parts and offer guidance on cleaning your laundry correctly!
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