Should the washing machine be cleaned?

The washing machine is almost a daily-used appliance in every household. We rely on it to clean clothes, and it's indispensable for washing sheets and curtains. When we use it, detergents are involved. As time goes by, residues from these detergents, as well as dirt from the laundry, can accumulate inside the washing machine. The buildup of grime can affect the washing machine's cleanliness and its lifespan.

Moreover, the items we wash carry bacteria. Since a washing machine is a closed space, it's easy for odors to develop. Sometimes, after washing, clothes might even take on these unpleasant smells and stains.

Since we wear these clothes close to our skin, to ensure the health of our family members, it's essential to clean the washing machine regularly. This helps to eliminate potential risks like bacteria and allergens.

 

We've already discussed the dangers of not cleaning the washing machine. Next, we'll talk about how to clean the washing machine. When cleaning the washing machine, we need to follow these steps:

1. Empty the Machine: Make sure the machine is empty with no clothes inside.

2. Run a Hot Cycle with Vinegar: Fill the washing machine with hot water. Add a quart of white vinegar and run a full cycle.

3. Run Another Cycle with a Cleaner: After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle the cleaning agent into the drum and run another hot cycle. This will help remove lingering odors and residues.

4. Clean the Dispensers: Extra care should be taken when choosing detergents, bleaches, and fabric softeners as they might leave residues in the dispensers. Therefore, when choosing a cleaning agent, opt for ones that break down easily. This often depends on the formula. Generally, eco-friendly formula cleaning agents are less likely to leave residues. Here, we recommend a cleaning agent,

   

   O Clean washing machine cleaner. Its formula is non-toxic, it uses active oxygen for cleaning, is easily soluble, and only requires 30 minutes of soaking. It can kill bacteria in the washing machine, clean dirt, and leave no residues.

5. Wipe Down the Drum: Once the cycles are finished, open the door and wipe down the inside of the drum with a clean cloth.

6. Clean the Door Seal: For front-loading machines, the rubber seal around the door tends to accumulate water, detergent, and dirt. Gently pull back the seal and check for foreign objects and mold. Clean with a cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution.

7. Leave the Door Open After Use: To prevent mold, leave the washing machine door ajar to allow the inside to dry after every wash cycle.

8. Check and Clean the Filter: Many washing machines have filters to trap small objects and lint. Check your machine's manual for its location and clean it periodically.