How to clean your washing machine so it smells like new

Cleaning your washing machine may seem like a daunting task, but if you follow this guide you’re going to learn how to clean your washing machine whether it’s a front of top loader.

Do your clothes have a musty smell when you take them out of the washing machine? It is probably time to time to clean your appliance. Over time there will be a build up of detergent, limescale and leftover debris. Your appliance will work more efficiently and you will prolong its life.

After multiple washes using detergents and fabric softeners start to build up in your machine, not to mention germs, mildew and mould. Keeping your appliance clean is so important, but knowing where to start can be overwhelming. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think and it will leave your washing machine and clothes smelling so good!

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This post is all about how to clean your washing machine

How often should you clean you machine?

It’s important to clean your washing machine regularly to reduce the build up of limescale, germs and bacteria. I recommend cleaning the washing machine drums every one to two months, depending on the amount of use it gets. Every 6 months clean the all the components to prolong the life of your machine

How to clean a washing machine

1. Use white vinegar in your MACHINE

Measure out one glass of white vinegar and pour it directly into where your drum is. I like to start with the drum because it accumulates the most mildew, mold and germs. Then run a gentle cycle to agitate the water. If you don’t want to use vinegar there are lots of washing machine cleaning products that will throughly clean your appliance. I recommend Dr.Beckmann Deep Clean Washing Machine Cleaner or Dettol Lemon Breeze Washing Machine Cleaner, Make sure you follow the step-by-step instructions for the product you use. I recommend once you have completed this then run another cycle to make sure all the white vinegar or cleaning products have been removed.

2. Clean the detergent draw

The detergent draw can quickly accumulate a build up of detergent and fabric conditioner, this can grow mold and mildew if not cleaned regularly. Remove the drawer and if possible and then soak it in hot water. Then before you put it back dry it thoroughly. If it’s not possible to remove the drawer, wipe the inside of the drawer to remove left over residue from fabric conditioner and detergent.

3. clean and dry the seals

All front loading washing machines have a rubber seal to prevent any water pouring out of the machine. Simply, wipe around the drum to remove any moisture. Then wipe and dry around the seal to stop mold and mildew from growing. After you have finished these steps your washing machine will look and smell amazing.

4. check your filter

I only recently found out where the filter is on my washing machine. Cleaning the filter is so easy, but so important! If it’s not cleaned regularly it can cause water to leak from the washing machine, as I unfortunately found out the hard way! On a front loading machine you can normally find it on the bottom right-hand side. Remove the filter and clean it by using an old toothbrush to remove any debris and then soak it in hot water. once it is cleaned you can then put it back in.

Maintenance for your machine

Leave the door open. In between keep the door open enough to let the it dry out and let the air circulate. If you have small children or pets, check inside your appliance before using. Also if your machine has one, engage the child lock.
Remove washing once the cycle has finished. If you can remove your washing as soon as possible after the cycle has finished it will help to reduce moisture in and around the drum and let it dry out quicker.
Regularly check the filter. Your filter collects debris, tissues and pet hair from going into the pump, if you can keep this clear it will help prolong the life of your appliance. I recommend checking it once every two months.
Clean out the detergent draw. I always wipe round the detergent draw dispenser after use. This prevents the build up of fabric softener or detergent keeping germs and bacteria at bay.
Wipe around the door and seal. To reduce mould and germs alway wipe around the door and seal of your washing machine. This will keep your washing machine smelling better for longer.

This post is all about how to clean your washing machine