After washing loads of dirty laundry your washing machine definitely needs a good cleaning. Putting some soap in the washing machine and taking clean things out doesn’t mean your appliances can’t get stained. There are even odors appearing over time that can get transferred to your clothes. If you do not want that to happen, follow our simple cleaning steps to have your washing machine clean again.
If you have a front loader, it is important that you have a regular cleaning routine for your washer in order to keep your clothes coming out clean. The rubber gasket that lines the door to prevent leakage is more susceptible to mold and mildew. To get rid of that mold use bleach and do not forget to open the windows for ventilation. Put some gloves on and pull back the rubber gasket to clean inside. Use a clean rag soaked in bleach and warm water to wipe it down. When finished wipe down the rubber gasket with a clean dry cloth.
Some washing machines have self-cleaning cycles, so if this is the case with yours, use this setting. Otherwise, use the highest load size, hottest water setting, and longest wash.
Add a quart of white vinegar or bleach (choose one of the solutions and do not mix them) through the dispenser so that it mixes with hot water. Put in the rags you used for cleaning the gasket, as it’s recommended not to run an empty load. Turn the machine on and wait for it to finish the washing cycle.
Notes:
After each load of laundry, get in the habit of leaving the washing machine door open to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Try to remove wet clothes right away when possible.
It’s best to clean your washing machine once a month.