How to clean washing machine: A Deep Dive

A washing machine is a basic home appliance that is used to clean and dry the clothes. It saves your laundry time and performs the job effectively. As it is a regularly used appliance, it may get damaged sometime or may malfunction. So, you have to perform regular maintenance of your washing machine. Cleaning your washing machine regularly with appropriate methods and products helps eliminate these harmful contaminants and ensures a hygienic laundry experience.

Maintaining a clean washing machine is essential and also crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, a clean washing machine ensures the cleanliness of your clothes. Over time, dirt, grime, and detergent residues can accumulate inside the machine, leading to unpleasant odors and stains on your garments. To avoid these issues you have to regularly clean your washing machine. Secondly, a clean washing machine helps prolong its lifespan and prevents potential breakdowns. When first debris builds up the machine, it can clog the filters, pipes, and other components, affecting the machine’s performance and efficiency. Lastly, maintaining a clean washing machine contributes to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. When the machine is clean and functioning optimally, it requires less energy and water to operate effectively. A clean washing machine improves its efficiency by enhancing performance, preventing blockages, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing wear and tear. By investing a little time in regular cleaning and maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of your washing machine and enjoy its optimal performance for years to come.

Signs that your Washing Machine needs cleaning

Your washing machine needs regular cleaning, but if you are confused about when to clean your machine, here we have mentioned some signs that indicate your washing machine needs cleaning:

• Unpleasant odors: If your washing machine emits unpleasant odors, even after washing your clothes, it's a clear sign that it needs cleaning. Lingering odors often result from the buildup of detergent residues, dirt, and moisture, creating an environment conducive to bacterial and mold growth. 
• Stained or Dingy clothes: If your clothes come out of the washing machine with stains or appear dingy even after a wash cycle, it could be due to accumulated grime in the machine. Over time, dirt and detergent residues can cling to the drum, dispenser, or other components, affecting the cleanliness of your clothes.
• Slow water drainage: If you notice that water drains slowly or the drum retains water even after the cycle is complete, it may indicate a clogged drain pump or drainage system. Accumulated lint, debris, or soap scum can obstruct the water flow and impede proper drainage. 
• Excessive noise or vibration: A dirty washing machine may produce more noise or vibrations during operation. Dirt and debris in the drum or other moving parts can cause friction, leading to increased noise levels and potential damage to the machine. 
• Reduced efficiency: If you observe that your washing machine takes longer to complete a cycle or requires multiple cycles to get clothes clean, it could be a sign of decreased efficiency. The accumulation of dirt and residue hampers the machine's ability to effectively clean your clothes, resulting in longer wash times or unsatisfactory results. 
• Rubber seal around the door contains stains: If you notice black or greenish mold or mildew growth on the rubber seal of your washing door, it's an indication that your machine needs cleaning. Mold thrives in moist environments, and the rubber seal provides a suitable breeding ground if not properly maintained. 
• Detergent buildup: Check the detergent dispenser drawer or tray for any residue buildup. If you notice a sticky or crusty residue, it means that detergent or fabric softener has accumulated over time. This can affect the proper distribution of detergent during the wash cycle. 

These are some of the common signs that your washing machine needs to be cleaned. If you observe any of these signs, it's essential to clean your washing machine promptly. Regular maintenance and cleaning will help eliminate these issues, ensuring that your machine functions optimally and provides clean and fresh laundry results.

Know more about How to Install a washing machine. 

How to clean a Washing Machine?

Washing machine cleaning is a simple process and needs to perform regularly to maintain the efficiency of the appliance. Here we have mentioned the best way to clean washing machine. 

• Clean the detergent dispenser: Every washing contains a detergent dispenser drawer or tray, remove it and clean it with a sponge or toothbrush. It can contain any residue or buildup, so soak it in warm water and rinse thoroughly. 
• Run a cycle using vinegar: Add two cups of vinegar into the detergent dispenser and run an empty cycle by setting the water temperature to hot. It helps to remove mineral deposits, residue, and any odors from the washing machine. 
• Scrub or clean the machine: Clean your washing machine neatly after the hot water and vinegar combo cycle is completed. 
• Run a cycle again using baking soda: Run a second cycle with hot water, but this time uses a cup or half cup of baking soda instead of vinegar. This will clear any leftover residues from the first cycle. 
• Clean the machine inside and outside: Clean the washing machine's interior and exterior with a damp cloth or sponge neatly. Pay attention to control panels, buttons, and any other surfaces that may have collected dirt or spills. 

By following these steps to clean a washing machine, you can ensure its efficiency and can improve its lifespan. 

Using a washing machine cleaner will effectively remove any dirt or residues present. They are specially made to clean and improve the efficiency of the appliance. There are many brands present in the market that are providing cleaners. One of the best cleaners is the Affresh washing machine cleaner. Cleaners are used as a substitute for vinegar and baking soda. 

How often to clean a Washing Machine?

You should clean your washing machine regularly but the cleaning frequency may vary based on the usage. However, as per the general guidelines by the top manufacturers, you should clean your washing every 2-3 months. 

This regular cleaning schedule helps prevent the buildup of dirt, detergent residues, mineral deposits, and mold or mildew, ensuring optimal performance and cleanliness. If you notice any signs of a dirty washing machine, such as foul odors, stained clothes, slow water drainage, or reduced efficiency, it's advisable to clean the machine sooner rather than later. Additionally, if you live in an area with particularly hard water or frequently wash heavily soiled items, more frequent cleaning may be necessary. Performing routine cleaning and maintenance schedules can ensure that your washing machine performs optimally, provides clean and fresh laundry results, and enjoys a prolonged lifespan. If you find any damaged part while cleaning your machine, get genuine Washing Machine replacement parts and fix it. 

How to clean a Top-Load Washing Machine?

Follow these basic steps for how to clean a top-loading washing machine:

• Fill the washing machine drum with hot water and add 2 cups of distilled white vinegar. 
• Allow the mixture of water and vinegar to sit in the drum for about an hour. 
• While the drum is soaking, clean the exterior surfaces of the machine by wiping it with a damp cloth or sponge. 
• If your machine has an agitator, use an old toothbrush or sponge soaked in the vinegar-water solution to scrub it thoroughly. 
• Close the lid and start a wash cycle 
• Clean the detergent dispenser with a soft fabric 
• After the wash cycle is completed, run an additional cycle with only water. 
• Wipe the drum and underside of the lid to ensure that no dirt or residue is left. 
• Leave the lid open for some time and allow the machine to dry. 

How to clean Front-Load Washing Machine?

Steps for the process of, how to clean the front load washing machine:

• By using a soft damp cloth clean the inside of the door and its gasket. 
• Front-load washing machines will have a detergent dispenser, remove it and clean it properly. 
• Run a hot water cycle by adding vinegar or you can also use a washing machine cleaner made for front-load machines. 
• Repeat the cycle again with baking soda instead of vinegar 
• Front-load washing machines will have a filter. Clean any debris or lint and rinse in water. 
• Clean the interior and exterior neatly with a sponge of fabric. 

The process for cleaning front load washing machine and the top load washing machine is similar. You just have to be careful with the parts and accessories where their placements will be different for both machines. 

How to clean Washing Machine Drum / How to clean Washing Machine Tub?

A washing machine tub is the outermost part of the drum. In some models, the washing machine tub and washing machine drum refer to the same. The washing machine drum is an essential component to perform the operation. Cleaning the drum is a simple process and is the same for both front and top-load machines. 

Here are the basic steps for How to clean the washing machine drum:

• Empty the drum first and clean the visible residues inside the drum with a cloth. 
• Make a solution of water and vinegar, instead, you can use a cleaner. 
• Spray the cleaner or the solution mixed by you onto the drum’s interior. Wait for some time and let it loosen the dirt. 
• Scrub the drum neatly to remove the stains 
• Clean the gasket to remove any buildup. 
• Run an empty cycle with the hot water to ensure the cleanliness 
• Leave the drum door open to let it dry completely. 

Know more about How to clean Washing machine filter. 

How to clean Washing Machine with Vinegar and Baking Soda?

Instead of washing machine cleaners, you can use vinegar and baking soda to clean your washing machine. It is a simple DIY that can be made easily by everyone.  Most of them use a cleaner to clean your machine as they are widely available in the market these days. If you don’t have any cleaners in your home, get vinegar and baking soda to clean your washing machine. 

Follow these steps to clean washing machine with vinegar and baking soda:

• Add two cups of vinegar into the washing machine drum and fill it with hot water. 
• Run the wash cycle.
• This mixture of hot water and vinegar will clean your drum by removing the debris and lint. 
• After the cycle completes then add the ½ cup of baking soda this time into the hot water and start the cycle again. 
• Wipe the complete machine after the cycle is done and keep the door open for some time. 

These steps will clean your washing machine without a specific cleaner. 

How much vinegar do you need to clean Washing Machine?

You can clean your washing machine by using vinegar solution as a replacement for the cleaner. You just need 2 cups of vinegar to clean your washing machine. Add this vinegar into the washing machine drum or washing machine tub filled with hot water and run the cycle. 

FAQ’s

Why does my Washing Machine Smell So Bad?

The common cause for washing machines smelling bad is due to the buildup of bacteria, mold, and mildew in the damp and dark environment of the machine. This can happen if you frequently wash at low temperatures or if you leave wet clothes in the machine for an extended period. Some other reasons for this issue include blockage of the drainage system and using too much or the wrong type of detergent.  Regularly clean your machine to avoid such problems. 

How much does a Washing Machine Weight?

Washing machines are available in various sizes, features, and capacities and the weight of them vary accordingly.  The top-load washing machine weighs between 150 to 200 pounds (68 to 91 kgs) whereas Front-loading washing machines tend to be heavier, with weights ranging from 170 to 250 pounds (77 to 113 kilograms). These numbers may vary according to the manufacturer's design and model of the washing machine. 

How much water does a High Efficiency Washing Machine use?

High-efficiency washing machines are Introduced and made to use less water compared to traditional top-loading machines. On average, a high-efficiency washing machine uses around 15 to 30 gallons (56 to 113 liters) of water per load.

Is Bleach or Vinegar better to clean Washing Machine?

Bleach and vinegar both are very effective in the process of cleaning a washing machine. Bleach is a strong disinfectant and can help kill bacteria, viruses, and mold in the washing machine. It is particularly useful if you're dealing with a machine that has a strong odor or visible mold growth. 

vinegar is a natural and mild cleaner that can help remove residue, mineral deposits, and odors from the washing machine. It is especially useful for combating hard water buildup. Based on your needs choose bleach or vinegar to solve your concerns. You can choose bleach if you're looking for a strong disinfectant. If you prefer a gentler and more natural cleaner, vinegar can be effective.  You can use washing machine cleaners that are popular to clean your machine. 

DIY Washing Machine Cleaner

You can make your own washing machine cleaner with a simple DIY. 

Ingredients required:

• 1 cup of white vinegar

• 1/2 cup of baking soda 

Steps to use:

• Mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 1/2 cup of baking soda. 

• Pour the mixture into the detergent dispenser

• Run a hot water cycle

• Wipe away any residue afterward.