How to Clean Washing Machine?

Is your washing machine starting to smell a little off? Are your clothes not coming out fresh and clean? It may be time to give your overworked laundry appliances a thorough cleaning. Even though washing machines are designed to clean clothes, they still require some regular maintenance and occasional TLC. Detergent residue, grime accumulation, hard-water minerals, and even mold and mildew can all form inside the machine over time, causing odors and discolored clothes. But don't worry; a few simple actions and basic home items will have your washer looking and smelling like new and working at its best for you again. Here is how to clean a washer effectively:

Step 1: Run an Empty Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar

First, set your washer to the hottest, longest cycle, and add 2-4 cups of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser or directly in the main drum. The acetic acid in vinegar is a natural disinfectant that will help dissolve residue and kill bacteria and mold spores.

Step 2: Add Baking Soda for Extra Deodorizing Power

For an extra boost of cleaning and deodorizing power, add ½ cup of baking soda to your washer drum before you begin your hot vinegar cycle. The baking soda will react with the vinegar to further break up residues that are hard to clean off while, at the same time, helping to neutralize odors. Allow the cycle to complete.

Step 3: Wipe Down the Washer Tub and Door Gasket

After the cycle is over, wipe off the interior of the washing tub with a microfiber cloth or sponge soaked in a mix of warm water and dish soap. The rubber door gasket tends to accumulate the most moisture, hair, and grime. Mix baking soda with water until it forms a paste, then apply it directly to tough stains or mildew spots. Scrub gently with an old toothbrush, and rinse with a moist cloth.

Step 4: Clean the Detergent and Fabric Softener Dispensers

If feasible, remove the detergent and fabric softener dispensers and immerse them in hot, soapy water to dislodge any clogged residue. Scrub any difficult regions with an old toothbrush, then rinse with clean water, dry, and replace. Otherwise, if your dispensers are removable, simply clean them as thoroughly as you can with a damp microfiber cloth.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Washer Exterior and Control Panel

Finally, thoroughly clean the outside of your washing machine, giving special attention to the control panel, knobs, and the area surrounding the door opening. Spray half white vinegar and half water—it's ideal for dusting since vinegar removes dust and filth while cleaning and deodorizing. Wipe with a microfiber cloth and buff to a streak-free sheen.

Step 6: Keep Your Clean Washer Fresh with Regular Maintenance

Keep your freshly cleaned washing machine smelling fresh by leaving the door open after each cycle for good air circulation to kill mold growth and to wipe away any extra moisture with a cloth. Then, once a month, add 2 cups of vinegar to a hot water-only wash to make your clothes smell fresh.

If cleaning your washing machine seems too daunting, consider using a truly green cleaning service like Seattle Green Maids, which will hire a professional with trained technicians to safely and effectively clean and maintain all makes and models of washing machines using eco-friendly and non-toxic products. The best part is that you will have sparkling clean laundry and complete peace of mind thanks to Seattle Green Maids.

Seattle Green Maids is dedicated to offering expert cleaning services that will make your life easier, your health safer, and the environment safer. Seattle Green Maids provides everything from everyday housekeeping to deep cleaning, carpet cleaning, window washing, and more, all utilizing modern green cleaning methods, products, and years of training and experience.

Seattle Green Maids will make your entire home cleaner and healthier from top to bottom.
So, the next time your washing machine or anything else in your home needs professional care, don't hesitate to contact Seattle Green Maids. Your laundry room, let alone the entire house, will thank you.