Cleaning specialists interviewed by „NBC News“ recommend cleaning the washing machine regularly, and manufacturers such as „Bosch“ and „Whirlpool“ also emphasize the importance of not forgetting not only the drum but also the door seals, detergent drawer, and filter.
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1. Start with the detergent drawer
Remove the detergent and fabric softener drawer if it can be pulled out. Rinse it with warm water, and use a soft brush to remove more stubborn residues.
If the drawer cannot be removed, clean its corners and crevices with a damp cloth or a small brush. „Bosch“ also recommends regularly cleaning the detergent drawer as residues of cleaning agents can accumulate there.
2. Don’t forget the door rubber seal
This is especially important if you use a front-loading washing machine. Pull back the rubber seal around the door and clean its folds – hair, lint, dirt, and moisture can accumulate there.
The cleaning specialist interviewed by „NBC News“ points out that in front-loading machines, moisture can accumulate precisely in this area, making the seal a favorable place for mold and unpleasant odors. You can clean it with a damp microfiber cloth, and a small brush can help with more stubborn dirt.
„Bosch“ also recommends cleaning the rubber with warm water and a soft cloth, avoiding abrasive and aggressive cleaners that can damage the seal.
If you have a top-loading washing machine, there usually isn’t a rubber seal around the door. In that case, wipe the inside of the lid and its edges – dust, hair, and other dirt can also accumulate there.
3. Clean the filter
Another place that is easy to forget is the washing machine filter. Hair, lint, small objects, or other dirt can accumulate there.
Before cleaning the filter, unplug the washing machine from the power supply. Since there may be residual water in the filter area, place a towel or prepare a container before unscrewing it.
The location of the filter and the cleaning method depend on the specific model, so it is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Now – the drum
Once you have cleaned the places where dirt accumulates, you can move on to the drum. First, make sure the washing machine is completely empty.
If your machine has a special drum cleaning („Drum Clean“ or similar) program, use it. You can also choose a cleaner specifically designed for washing machines and follow its and your device’s instructions.
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Specialists interviewed by „NBC News“ suggest using cleaning tablets or powders designed for washing machines and running a regular cycle at the hottest allowed water temperature. After that, they recommend running another hot water cycle to remove any remaining dirt and residues of cleaning agents.
What about vinegar?
Vinegar is often mentioned as an inexpensive home cleaning agent, but caution is advised when using it with washing machines.
„NBC News“ specialists present vinegar as one of the possible drum cleaning options, but manufacturer recommendations may vary. For example, „Whirlpool“ does not recommend using vinegar as a regular washing machine cleaner because over time the acid can affect some rubber parts and hoses.
Therefore, it is safest to first check the instructions for your specific washing machine model and, if necessary, choose a cleaner specially designed for washing machines.
5. Clean the exterior as well
Once the inside is taken care of, don’t forget the outside. The control panel, door, lid, and washing machine surfaces can be wiped with a damp microfiber cloth.
The most important thing is not to pour water directly onto the control panel and not to use aggressive cleaners unless recommended by the manufacturer.
6. Leave the door open after washing
This is one of the simplest ways to prevent moisture from lingering inside the washing machine for a long time.
After finishing washing, leave the door open so the drum can dry. It is also worth leaving the detergent drawer door open. „Bosch“ advises doing exactly this to prevent moisture from accumulating inside.
How often should you clean the washing machine?
Specialists interviewed by „NBC News“ recommend cleaning the washing machine approximately every 1–4 months. Front-loading machines may require more frequent cleaning – about once a month, especially if washing is frequent.
„Whirlpool“ also recommends regular maintenance, and more frequent cleaning may be necessary if you live in an area with hard water.
So, to have a clean washing machine, it is not enough to occasionally run an empty drum cycle. You should clean the detergent drawer, door rubber seal, filter, drum, and ensure the inside of the machine dries after washing. This simple routine will help avoid unpleasant odors and accumulated dirt.
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