DIY Recipe For Cleaning Your Washing Machine
Your washing machine is an essential appliance that helps keep your clothes clean and fresh. However, over time, it can accumulate dirt, grime, and even develop odors.
Regularly cleaning your washing machine is crucial to maintain its efficiency and ensure your laundry comes out clean and odor-free.
While there are commercial washing machine cleaners available in the market, you can also make your own DIY cleaning solution using simple household ingredients like white vinegar and baking soda.
In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to deep clean your washing machine using a DIY recipe that is effective, environmentally-friendly, and cost-effective.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
To make your DIY washing machine cleaning solution, you’ll need the following ingredients:
1 cup of white vinegar: White vinegar is a natural and effective cleaner that can help dissolve dirt, mineral deposits, and soap scum in your washing machine.
1/2 cup of baking soda: Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that can help remove stains, odors, and residue from your washing machine drum.
1/4 cup of water: Water is used to create a paste with baking soda to apply on the drum.
A soft brush or toothbrush: You’ll need a soft brush or toothbrush to scrub the baking soda and vinegar mixture inside the washing machine drum.
A clean cloth or sponge: A clean cloth or sponge is required to wipe down the interior of the washing machine.
Warm water: Warm water is used to rinse the washing machine after cleaning.
Step 2: Empty the Washing Machine
Before you start cleaning your washing machine, make sure it is empty of any clothes or laundry. This will allow you to access all the areas that need cleaning and ensure that the cleaning solution can work effectively.
Step 3: Mix the Baking Soda Paste
In a measuring cup or small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/4 cup of water to form a thick paste. The paste-like consistency will make it easier to spread on the inside of the washing machine drum.
Step 4: Apply the Baking Soda Paste
Using a cloth or sponge, spread the baking soda paste on the inside of the washing machine drum, focusing on areas with visible dirt, stains, or built-up grime. Pay extra attention to the agitator, the corners, and the areas around the door or lid, as these are often hotspots for dirt and mold growth. The baking soda will act as a gentle abrasive and help break down dirt and stains while neutralizing odors.
Step 5: Pour in the White Vinegar
In a separate measuring cup or bowl, pour 1 cup of white vinegar. White vinegar is a powerful natural cleaner that can help dissolve mineral deposits, soap scum, and buildup in your washing machine. Slowly pour the white vinegar into the detergent dispenser of the washing machine. If your washing machine doesn’t have a detergent dispenser, pour it directly into the drum.
Step 6: Scrub the Drum
Use a soft brush or toothbrush to scrub the baking soda and vinegar mixture inside the washing machine drum. Focus on areas with stubborn stains or mold and mildew growth. The combination of baking soda and vinegar will create a foamy reaction that will help lift away dirt and grime. Scrub all surfaces thoroughly, including the agitator, the walls of the drum, and the areas around the door or lid.
Step 7: Let the Mixture Sit
After scrubbing, let the baking soda and vinegar mixture sit in the washing machine for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. This will allow the cleaning solution to penetrate and break down dirt, grime, and odors effectively. The vinegar will also help disinfect and sanitize the washing machine, killing any germs or bacteria that may be present.
Step 8: Wipe Down the Interior
Once the soaking time is up, use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe down the inside of the washing machine, removing any residue or debris. Pay attention to all the surfaces, including the drum, agitator, and the areas around the door or lid. Make sure to rinse your cloth or sponge frequently to avoid spreading dirt around. If you encounter any stubborn stains or residue, you can use a bit of baking soda and vinegar paste to scrub them away.
Step 9: Rinse with Warm Water
After wiping down the interior, fill the detergent dispenser or drum with warm water and run a complete cycle on the hottest setting. This will help to rinse away any remaining cleaning solution, residue, and debris from the washing machine. If your washing machine has a self-cleaning cycle, you can use that as well. Running a hot water cycle will also help to sanitize the washing machine and remove any lingering odors.
Step 10: Air Dry
Once the cycle is complete, open the door of the washing machine and let it air dry for a few hours. This will help to prevent moisture buildup and allow the washing machine to air out, eliminating any remaining odors. You can also use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the interior again to ensure it’s completely dry.
Step 11: Clean Exterior and Accessories
While you’re at it, don’t forget to clean the exterior of the washing machine, as well as any accessories such as the detergent dispenser, lint trap, or filter.
Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and mild detergent, paying attention to buttons, knobs, and any other areas that may have accumulated dirt or grime. Remove and clean the detergent dispenser, lint trap, or filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and rinse them thoroughly before reinstalling.
Step 12: Regular Maintenance
To keep your washing machine clean and fresh, it’s important to perform regular maintenance. Here are some tips to help you maintain a clean washing machine:
Leave the door or lid of the washing machine open between cycles to allow air to circulate and prevent moisture buildup.
Wipe down the drum and other surfaces of the washing machine with a damp cloth after each use to prevent dirt and detergent residue from accumulating.
Use the recommended amount of detergent and avoid using too much, as excess detergent can contribute to residue buildup.
Run a monthly maintenance cycle with just hot water and white vinegar to help sanitize and freshen up the washing machine.
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