Your washing machine works hard. After all, it removes dirt and stains from clothes. Over time, dirt and soap scum develops inside the washing machine which makes the clothes and machine smelly. This is why you should clean your washing machine regularly. Regular cleaning and maintenance gets your appliances lasting longer.

What do I need to clean the washing machine?

• White vinegar
• Baking Soda
• Toothbrush/small brush
• Cloth
• Spray Bottle

How to clean the washing machine

Remove any removable parts of the machine that can be washed in the sink like the soap tray. If you can’t remove the soap tray, fill it with vinegar and let it soak while you clean the other areas of the machine. Scrub it out and rinse with warm water.

Use a cloth, toothbrush and white vinegar to scrub the crevices inside the machine. If the washing machine has a rubber gasket, use a cloth with vinegar to wipe it clean.

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Some top loading machines have a trap for catching hair and debris. Spray the area with vinegar and warm water. If you aren’t sure where the trap is, consult the user manual.

Some front loading machines may have a small door that catches coins, buttons and small debris. Look for any doors or ports that may provide access to this area for cleaning. Some washers don’t have this section.

Pour 1/4 cup of white vinegar into the wash drum with a cup of baking soda. Use a small brush and vinegar to scrub the interior of the wash drum. Use the hottest temperature setting and run a hot wash cycle with the solution in the empty washer. This will get your washer clean, sanitized and smelling fresh.

Tips on keeping your machine clean

• Don’t leave wet clothes sitting in the machine, nit even after drying. The clothes could still be damp.
• Don’t eyeball the soap. Using too much could make things worse as the water can’t rinse it effectively. Therefore, leaving residual soap on the clothes and in the machine.
• Leave the door cracked when not in use to prevent mold and mildew.
• Ensure you deep clean the washing machine once a month.