Cleaning your top-loading or front-loading washing machine is essential to ensure that it functions efficiently and to prevent any unpleasant odors, mold growth and mildew.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean a top-loading and front-loading washing machines.
The presenter, known as “Pan The Organizer,” begins by addressing common issues with washing machines, such as unpleasant odors caused by soap scum, dirt, and bacteria. He provides tips and tricks for cleaning and maintaining washing machines for optimal performance.
Cleaning Process Using Baking Soda and Vinegar:
- Recommends using pure baking soda as a mild abrasive and odor-fighting agent by pouring 2 cups directly into the washing machine tub.
- Emphasizes the importance of running a hot cycle to maximize the cleaning effect, either by selecting the hottest temperature or using a tub cleaning option on modern machines.
- Introduces a mixture of 2 cups of white vinegar and 10 drops of essential oils (lavender or tea tree) for sanitization and odor elimination, to be poured into the detergent tray and run through a hot cycle.
Alternative Cleaning Method with Washer Cleaner Tablets:
- Highlights Affresh washer cleaner tablets as a convenient alternative for users without baking soda or vinegar.
- Describes the tablet usage, including placing the tablet in the tub, running a hot cycle, and explaining how the tablet penetrates and removes dirt, grime, and odors.
Filter Maintenance for Front-Loading Machines:
- Advises monthly cleaning of the filter located at the bottom of front-loading machines to remove accumulated dirt, grime, fibers, and hair.
- Demonstrates the removal of the filter, spraying it with the prepared solution, brushing with an old toothbrush, rinsing thoroughly, and ensuring it is dry before reattaching.
Cleaning the Glass Door:
- Prepare a solution in a sprayer bottle with equal parts dishwashing liquid and white vinegar, along with 10 drops of essential oils (tea tree or lavender).
- After each load, open the washing machine door.
- Spray the prepared solution onto the glass portion of the door.
- Quickly wipe the sprayed area using a microfiber towel.
Cleaning the Rubber Gasket (for Front-Loading Machines):
- Spray the prepared solution onto the rubber gasket that surrounds the opening of the front-loading machine.
- Use a sponge or a microfiber towel to rub and wipe all around the rubber gasket.
- Ensure thorough cleaning to remove any accumulated dirt, grime, or residue from the gasket.
Cleaning the Dispenser Tray:
- Open the dispenser tray of the washing machine.
- Prepare the same solution (dishwashing liquid, white vinegar, and essential oils) or use warm soapy water.
- Spray the solution into the dispenser tray.
- Use an old toothbrush to brush the inside of the dispenser tray thoroughly.
- Rinse the tray fully to remove any cleaning solution.
- Dry the dispenser tray with a microfiber towel.
- Wipe down the dispenser tray to reduce chances of moisture accumulation after each load.
These steps are emphasized as part of a monthly maintenance routine to keep the washing machine clean, prevent grime buildup, and reduce the chances of odor-causing bacteria over time.
Closing Tips:
- Recommends leaving the washing machine door and detergent tray open after each use to promote air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
- Reiterates the importance of regular cleaning based on machine usage frequency, providing specific recommendations for families and individuals.
How to Clean Washing Machine Agitator
Cleaning the agitator in a washing machine is essential to ensure it remains free of dirt, detergent residues, and mineral buildup. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean the agitator:
Materials Needed:
- White vinegar or bleach
- Baking soda
- Old toothbrush or small brush
- Hot water
- Microfiber cloth or sponge
Instructions:
- Prepare a Cleaning Solution:
- Fill a bucket or bowl with hot water.
- If you prefer a natural cleaner, add 2 cups of white vinegar to the water. Alternatively, you can use 1 cup of bleach, but be cautious and follow safety guidelines.
- Pause the Washing Cycle:
- If your washing machine is currently in use, pause the cycle and unplug the machine to ensure safety.
- Access the Agitator:
- Open the lid or door of the washing machine to access the agitator. If your machine has a dual-action or impeller agitator, it may be easily removable.
- Remove the Agitator Cap or Fabric Softener Dispenser:
- For some machines, there may be a cap or dispenser on top of the agitator. Remove it to expose the agitator mechanism.
- Clean the Agitator Exterior:
- Use a microfiber cloth or sponge soaked in the cleaning solution to wipe down the exterior of the agitator. Pay attention to any crevices or textured areas where dirt may accumulate.
- Scrub the Agitator Blades:
- If the agitator has blades or fins, use an old toothbrush or a small brush dipped in the cleaning solution to scrub away any dirt, soap scum, or residue. Pay special attention to the underside of the agitator where debris may accumulate.
- Soak the Agitator:
- For stubborn stains or buildups, let the agitator soak in the cleaning solution for about 30 minutes to an hour.
- Rinse the Agitator:
- After soaking, rinse the agitator thoroughly with clean water to remove any cleaning solution and loosened debris.
- Replace the Agitator Cap or Dispenser:
- If you removed a cap or dispenser, replace it securely on top of the agitator.
- Run a Short Rinse Cycle:
- To ensure that any residual cleaning solution is washed away, run a short rinse cycle with no clothes using plain water.
- Wipe Down the Drum and Lid:
- While the machine is empty, take the opportunity to wipe down the interior of the drum and the lid with a clean, damp cloth.
- Leave the Lid Open:
- After cleaning, leave the lid or door of the washing machine open between uses to allow the interior to air dry and prevent mold and mildew growth.
Performing this cleaning routine periodically, such as once a month, will help maintain the agitator and overall cleanliness of your washing machine.
