Did you know that the washing machine is filthy? You might think that it should be clean as it gets washed all the time, right?
It is filthy 🥶. Seriously. Your washing machine is constantly in contact with organic materials and fibres that can get caught in the nooks and crannies. The wet, warm environment inside your machine is a perfect breeding ground for mildew and mold, especially in the hard-to-reach areas, which may never completely dry. Third, detergents and hard water can build up, which can dull your clothes and clog the mechanisms.
See how filthy my washing machine was (gag! 🙈)
(I didn't manage to clean it for 3 months because I was away from home)
How often should you deep clean your washing machine?
I suggest once a month if you usually wash your cloths in room temperature.
You don't have to buy washing machine cleaning chemicals to get rid of the mildew or odour inside. Below are some simple steps on keeping your washing machine in pristine condition:
Materials you will need:
Rags
Old tooth brush
White vinegar
Baking soda
Water
Citric Acid
Step 1:
Use some rags and old tooth brush, dip in white vinegar, and clean away the old grime that are stuck in the rubber seal
Step 2:
Put 2 tablespoons of baking soda in a small bowl, add 2 teaspoons of water and mix into a paste. Use a rag to take some of the paste and rub it inside the drum.
Step 3:
Pour about a cup (250ml) of white vinegar into the detergent compartment, turn on the washing machine and use the hottest washing cycle to wash the empty machine.
Step 4:
After the first wash, if the washing machine rubber seal is still not cleaned, you need to run another hot cycle. This time, pour 1 cup of citric acid into the detergent compartment, and add half a cup of baking soda on top. Run the empty washing machine on another hot cycle.
Repeat this cleaning process once a month.
To keep the machine in tip-top condition, you also need to do these regularly:
Wipe down the machine after use every time and keep the door open for ventilation
Clean away excess detergents every time
Open the washing machine filter compartment and clean away any dirt and rubbish regularly
Hope this post helps you to keep your washing machine and clothes nice and clean.
Please see my other posts about choosing household cleaning products, hope you will find these posts useful too.
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