How do you clean a washing machine?

EVERYONE knows how to clean their clothes in the washing machine, but the correct way to clean the appliance itself is less well known.

Here you will find everything you need to know about washing your washing machine.

1

How do you clean a washing machine?

According to cleaning expertsWashing machines can harbor salmonella and other nasty bacteria if they are not given proper care every now and then.

However, if you clean it regularly, you can keep bacteria at bay.

Experts recommend cleaning your washing machine at least once a month.

This quick and easy cleaning process saves you a lot of time and keeps your laundry smelling fresh.

How to clean a washing machine:

1. Run a hot cycle

Run an empty, normal program on the warmest setting (minimum 60ºC).

Add approximately 250 ml of white vinegar to the detergent compartment.

White vinegar is a great natural ingredient to neutralize bad odors and kill any bacteria in the washing machine drum.

2. Clean the outside

While you wait for the program to complete, clean the outside of the machine with a cleaning solution of white vinegar and a cloth.

3. Run a second hot cycle

Run another empty, normal program at high temperature, but this time do not use detergent or vinegar.

Instead, you can add half a cup of baking soda to the drum to remove any buildup.

4. Wipe the interior clean

Once the second cycle is complete, take a cloth and your preferred cleaning spray and wipe down the inside of the machine.

Wait until it is completely dry before closing it again. This prevents mold from forming.

How do I clean the drawer of a washing machine?

1. Remove the tray and spray

Carefully remove the detergent drawer and clean it with your preferred spray or warm soapy water.

2. Clean the hard-to-reach parts

Use a toothbrush or bottle cleaner to scrub any parts that you couldn’t get clean with the cloth.

Cleaning expert Mrs Hinch says she uses a sonic scrubber to clean the hard-to-reach crevices in her washing machine drawer.

3. Let it dry

Allow the tray to dry thoroughly and then carefully place it back into the machine.

How do I clean the filter of a washing machine?

1. Switch off the machine and unplug it from the socket

Before attempting to locate and remove the filter, make sure you turn off the appliance safely and unplug it from the wall outlet.

2. Open the filter

Remove the lid and open the filter. Consult the manual if you are unsure where the filter is located.

Place a towel on the floor and use a bowl to catch water when the filter opens. Wait until all the water has drained.

3. Check and clean the filter

After you unscrew the filter cap, you can check for any obstructions such as coins or buttons.

Place the filter cap in hot soapy water for ten minutes.

Take it out and once it is dry you can reassemble the filter.