How to clean a washing machine

Vinegar is a great natural cleanser and is safe to use with almost all washers. Empty your machine and remove any large pieces of dust or hair. Prepare two cups of white vinegar mixed with half a cup of baking soda. Pour the mixture into the detergent drawer or the drum and run a normal empty washing cycle. The soda and vinegar will help to loosen built-up residue. For persistent dirt, you can leave the mixture to work its magic a little longer using your machine’s soak option. Afterward, rinse the machine with a cold-water cycle and leave the door open to help dry the inside.

If your machine still stinks after using natural cleaners or you don’t like the smell of vinegar, several commercial product options are available. But first, it’s worth checking that your manufacturer’s guarantee doesn’t advise against using certain cleaning products as that could invalidate your warranty.  Simply add a tab or powder to the empty drum for a wash cycle once a month. Use Dylon Washing Machine Cleaner 5 in 1 for a pure and clean washing machine.

The best way to keep your machine mould-free is to prevent it through general maintenance. But we know that’s not always possible. Mould is usually found around the rubber seal on front-loading machines. It’s where moisture collects to become a perfect breeding ground for mould. To effectively get rid of spores, prepare a cleaning solution of half a cup of hydrogen peroxide (or white vinegar), a few squirts of lemon juice and two cups of water. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray it on the affected surface. Leave it to soak for a few minutes and then scrub away the mould with a sponge or towel. Make sure you wear gloves when handling hydrogen peroxide.

It happens rarely, but if you suspect that mould is growing at the back of your washer drum, it’s best to call in an expert.

Over time, detergent residue, dirt, and grease can block the drainpipe. When a washing machine drains slowly, it’s time for a clean. Locate your washer’s drainpipe (usually at the back of the machine). If the blockage is mild, you can try pouring very hot water down the pipe to dislodge residue. For more tenacious blockages, use a commercial drain cleaner and follow the packaging directions.  drain

The filter is where most of the dirt and germs are caught to help block larger pieces of gunk from obstructing the machine. It’s a good idea to empty the filter regularly (every two to three weeks) and wipe all its parts with a damp cloth. Most machine filters are located at the front bottom of a washer. Simply open the hatchet and clean away.

A good scrub every month or two is important, but you can help keep your machine in shape for longer in between cleaning cycles by practicing some general maintenance. For front loading washing machines, wipe the inside with a dry towel after each use. Irrespective of washing machine type, keep the door open after use for the inside to air-dry. Sources say to run your machine without a load or detergent adding a cup of oxygen bleach every three to six months. 

For more cleaning inspiration read our other articles on how to clean windows, how to clean a dishwasher or how to clean slate tiles.