Over time, your washing machine’s interiors (and exteriors, of course) will start to get dirty and obtain stains. It’s inevitable. However, as you may not realize that your washing machine has gone rusty; your laundry will stop coming out clean!
A washing machine may have mold or mildew, slimy residues and dirt inside it which is contaminating your laundry. When it happens, it only suggests that it’s time to clean the washing machine! Apart from keeping your washer dirt-free and hygienic, cleaning also prevents rusting or corroding. It is damaging to your washing machine and may also stain your laundry in the process. So to avoid stress here are some useful washing machine maintenance tips:
How to Thoroughly Clean Your Washing Machine?
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Target Rubbers/Seals First
It’s a place where mold starts, the dirt particles trap, and muddy residues can stick. The reason why most of the ‘dirty’ action happens here is that the seals and rubbers don’t dry up quickly. Especially when you run a hot cycle, the humidity and dampness lead to a buildup for the machine if it does not air out or dry up altogether. Consequently, you should begin the cleaning using a tablespoon of soap or bleach mixed in one cup of clean water. Soak a clean cloth in this solvent and wipe around the rubbers and seals. Rinse the cloth out as and when needed and continue cleaning until no more sliminess and dirt is showing on the fabric.
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Keep Cleaning the Interior Walls
Depending on what type of washing machine you possess (from the top load, the front load, etc.), cleaning the interiors can be a challenge. Nonetheless, you can clean it by using a soft-bristled cleaning brush. Have a long handle to reach all the interior walls of your washing machine. Create a sudsy mixture of laundry detergent and tap water. You can dip the brush in and start scrubbing the interior walls as far as you can reach. Pay more attention to visible stains in the corners that the grime usually holds.
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Rinse Thoroughly the Empty Cycles
The rubbers, the seal’s especially interiors need a thorough rinsing. It should be done before you start cleaning the exterior part of your washing machine. Next, set your washer for a short, empty cycle and also take a breather till it’s finished. In case you find any residue of detergent or strong smells of both the solution, run extra empty cycle.
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Clean the Exterior Part
Also, you possibly need to thoroughly clean the exteriors as it has stains with detergent drops and dirt. The back portion of your washing machine (where the hose of the water is connected) may also have the mold that grows around it so be sure to clean there also. Keep doing this by using a wet fabric to wipe down your washing machine’s exterior thoroughly. Also, remove any dirt or mold that is left in the water hose. For proper machine cleaning maintenance, we advise you to clean the interiors every other month and exteriors (including the back) as and when needed.