Why clean the washing machine?

Over time, minerals and debris build up in the machine. This hinders the washing machine from being cleaned; it also makes the washing machine less effective. This simple cleaning process is done with daily needs, which keeps clothes fresh and the washing machine in excellent condition!

What do you need?

You can use the items you already have at home to complete this easy cleaning process. To clean the washing machine, you will need a liter of bleach. If you don’t want to use bleach, you can use a white vinegar quart.

How do I clean the washing machine?

1. Set the washing machine’s load size to the maximum setting and the water temperature control to the hottest setting.
   This allows a large amount of hot water to fill the machine and flush out its residue. Unlike normal laundry washing, idling when the machine runs on this cycle means that no new germs or dirt can get inside the machine.
2. Start the wash cycle and add a quart of bleach or white vinegar as you fill the washing machine. Wait a minute for the machine to move, then open the lid to stop the cycle. Let the water, bleach, or vinegar stay in the machine for an hour.
   Both bleach and white vinegar are used as disinfectants. Once mixed with hot water, this solution will thoroughly clean the inside of the washing machine, removing any accumulated minerals, debris, and bacteria that could affect its effectiveness. Just like soaking a burnt saucepan in dish soap, it helps to let the bleach-water mixture sit for an hour to ensure that any residue on the cake is removed.
3. After one hour, close the lid to allow the cycle to complete normally.
4. Clean the water inlet filter and the lint filter.

Don’t worry if you can’t find this feature in your washing machine.  If you are not sure, please check online. If you have them on your machine, please follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning as they vary according to the machine.

Your washing machine plays a very important role in your home. It deserves this quick and easy household cleaning process to keep running efficiently.

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Washing Machine Maintenance

The washing machine is essential equipment to keep your house fresh and clean. However, for the washing machine to serve you well, you need to take care of the washing machine.

Follow the maintenance tips below to extend your appliances’ life and prevent accidental failures.

Check the machine periodically

As part of washing machine maintenance, please check the washing machine carefully every few months. You are more likely to find the problem before it becomes confusing, expensive, or even dangerous.

It is imperative to check all the hoses going in and out of the washing machine and the connections to the washing machine for signs of cracks, leaks, or blockages, including the water inlet valve, bathtub, and drain system. It is best to leave a few inches between the washing machine and the wall. This will help prevent the hose from kinking.

If a leak is found, immediately unplug the power cord and turn off the power. Before using the washing machine again, you need to repair the leak and clean the water.

Pay attention to noises

It is best to listen to the operation of the washing machine regularly. If you find it sounds awkward or hear a rattle, there may be a problem with the machine. Before a more serious problem occurs, you may need to call a professional to check the washing machine.

Use the correct detergent

If you own a High-Efficiency Machine (HE), using the right detergent is an important part of washing machine maintenance. When buying a detergent, check the “HE” label, which says it is safe for high-efficiency machines. Using standard detergents in High-Efficiency machines can leave excess on the machine drums.

Adding more detergent will not make your clothes cleaner. Using too much detergent can leave excess on the washing machine drum that will be difficult to remove. Be sure to follow the instructions in the instruction manual and in the detergent packaging to determine the type and amount of detergent suitable for your machine.

Keep the washing machine clean

Another important maintenance technique for washing machines is to keep the inside of the washing machine clean. Make sure that the following areas are thoroughly cleaned during maintenance:

• Wash fabric softener dispenser. If your washing machine comes with a fabric softener dispenser, clean it regularly. Fabric softeners tend to leave a sticky residue that can cause the dispenser to stick or even leak.
• Clean the filter. Many washing machines have one or more filters, e.g., Lint collectors or water inlet filters, which must be cleaned as part of the washing machine’s regular maintenance. You should check the original manual documentation to understand where and how to clean these filters.
• Rinse the gasket in the washing machine. When closing the machine door, a dirty seal can prevent the gasket. If you notice any cracks or tears while cleaning the machine, you will need to replace the gasket.
• Wipe the exterior. Wipe the exterior regularly as you clean the washing machine. Please pay special attention to buttons and knobs, which can collect dust and affect their normal operation.
• Scrub the detergent and bleach dispenser. The detergent and bleach dispensers should also be scrubbed regularly. Just because you put the detergent in it doesn’t mean it’s clean. Make sure there is no residue or buildup in each dispenser.
• Clean the washing machine drum. Occasional cleaning of the washing machine drum will remove mineral deposits and detergent residues built up over time. You can buy washing machine cleaners from the store and have them run on an empty washing machine cycle. If you’re looking for a cleaner alternative, try a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and water.
• Keep the machine level. As with the maintenance of the dryer, make sure the washing machine level is balance. If your machine is not balanced, adjust the feet so that the machine is completely level.

Another way to keep the washing machine balanced is to avoid overloading it. In wet, congested conditions, the rotation cycle shakes the machine so hard that it begins to move and flatten.

Invest in a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats can be linked to mobile devices like your smartphone, making it easy to adjust your thermostat for energy savings when your home is empty. You can also readjust the temperature before returning home so that your rooms are comfortable when you arrive.