Effortless Methods to Eliminate Mould and Odours in Your Washing Machine
Mastering the art of cleaning a washing machine is crucial for both extending the longevity of your appliance and ensuring fresh, spotless laundry. Even though it's a cleaning device itself, it's shocking just how dirty your machine can get. Surely, you've wondered about that funky smell emanating from your washing machine at one point or another, and regular cleans can help remedy that.
According to cleaning gurus, taking care of your washing machine is like maintaining your dishwasher - they both require consistent love and attention. If you're keen on cleaning your kitchen or setting up a cleaning checklist, don't forget to toss your white goods into the mix, too.
Your machine needs to stay pristine to perform at its best. That means scrubbing all parts of the washing machine - drum, filter, and door seal included. Here's a quick three-step guide to give your washing machine a thorough, deep clean without using harsh chemicals.
Cleaning a Washing Machine the Natural Way in 3 Easy Steps
Depending on the specific household and washing machine, techniques and ingredients for cleaning might differ. With that in mind, we'll provide both a basic clean method and some tricks for a more intense clean-up.
1. Run an Empty Hot Cycle
To keep bacteria and mold at bay, get into the habit of doing a hot (60°C) cycle without any clothing inside once in a while. This high temperature helps eliminate lurking germs and mold.
You can use various cleaning products for this cycle, including bleach and vinegar (process below). If you prefer to use just detergent, remember to employ at least 50% less detergent than usual so you don't create an excess amount of suds from the lack of clothes to sop them up.
For a quick and eco-friendly clean, try a specialized product like Ecozone's Washing Machine & Dishwasher Cleaner. It not only sanitizes but also helps get rid of limescale, ensuring long-lasting performance from your machine. Clean your appliance every few months with this method, using free techniques more frequently.
Specialized Cleaner
RRP: £5.99 | This specialized cleaner is perfect for providing a thorough sanitization and descaling while being environmentally friendly.
2. Scrub the Outer Shell
Although the front of the washing machine is less likely to harbor bacteria and germs, it's the part that's visible, so keeping it clean and hygienic is essential, especially if you're aiming for a pristine kitchen.
"Always keep the outer shell of the washing machine sparkling clean," advises Ben Peach, Laundry Product Manager at Hoover. "Simply dust it off with a damp cloth, and the same applies to the glass on the door – clean it regularly with a damp cloth, and it will shine like new."
3. Wipe Down the Rubber Door Seal
Don't forget the door seal, as it's a prime location for hidden germs. Think about the excess moisture that brushes past the seal after every load, leaving potential for dampness and bacteria build-up. Skipping this step could lead to mold and odors.
"Clean around the inner rubber door seal," recommends Ben, "as this area will see a build-up of bacteria and bad odours." Use a damp, soapy cloth to gently clean the seal, making sure not to pull it away from the door, as this can damage the watertight seal.
Cleaning a Washing Machine with Vinegar and Baking Soda
In the spirit of going green, vinegar and baking soda are the go-to natural cleaners for many homemade household solutions. You can create an effective washing machine cleaning solution by blending white vinegar with baking soda.
What you'll need:
- 2 cups (500 ml) white distilled vinegar
- 1/4 cup (62.5 ml) bicarbonate of soda
- 1/4 cup (62.5 ml) water
- A sponge scourer
Directions:
- Mix the bicarbonate of soda and water in a small bowl. This mixture resembles detergent for washing machine cleaning. Pour the white vinegar into a measuring cup.
- Pour the bicarbonate of soda mixture into the detergent container of your machine and the vinegar into the machine's drum. Set your washer to a regular load at the hottest water setting, close the door, and start the machine. The baking soda and vinegar work together to dislodge mineral deposits and mold while refreshing your washing machine. The baking soda and water mixture acts as detergent during the cycle, removing residue from the rubber seal and agitator. Use a clean scouring sponge to scrub the rubber seal and other tricky spots after the cycle finishes.
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By employing these simple, natural methods for maintaining your washing machine, you'll keep your clothes smelling fresh and your machine working in top condition while reducing environmental impact.
Keeping your washing machine clean is an essential aspect of home health and wellness, contributing to the longevity of your appliance and producing fresh, spotless laundry. Just as with your dishwasher, gave your washing machine love and attention to keep it performing at its best. Scrub all parts of the washing machine, including the drum, filter, and door seal, using methods and ingredients suitable for your household.
For an eco-friendly clean, consider a specialized natural cleaner like Ecozone's Washing Machine & Dishwasher Cleaner, which sanitizes and gets rid of limescale. Regular cleaning every few months keeps your machine pristine and ensures long-lasting performance.
Don't neglect the outer shell of the washing machine, especially in a kitchen setting, as it's visible and can impact your overall lifestyle and home-and-garden aesthetic. Keep it clean and hygienic by dusting it off with a damp cloth.
To combat hidden germs, give the rubber door seal a thorough wipe-down with a damp, soapy cloth. Skipping this step may lead to mold and odors. By following this three-step guide, you'll find it easy to maintain your washing machine using natural and environmentally-friendly methods.
For those who prefer home-made solutions, vinegar and baking soda can be an effective combination for cleaning your washing machine. By mixing equal parts white distilled vinegar and water, along with a quarter cup of bicarbonate of soda, you can create an all-natural washing machine cleaner. Pour the vinegar into the machine's drum, the baking soda mixture into the detergent container, and run a hot cycle to let the vinegar and baking soda work together to dislodge mineral deposits and mold while refreshing your washing machine.
