In order to keep the machine in optimum condition and prevent dirt from accumulating, so that does not transmit odors to our clothing, we advise you to perform this cleaning on a regular basis.
All appliances in our home need regular cleaning, even if you use it to wash their own clothes. The washing machine is one of those appliances that we use most frequently and that if it is not maintained properly, it cannot run correctly.
Given that most of the time is in contact with a lot of humidity, it is normal that in the washing machine of the rubber and the parts around appear mildew stains and detergent residues.
Even if at first we do not notice, with the passage of time, these problems become evident, especially because in the washing machine starts to feel an unpleasant odor that sometimes, even adheres to the heads.
Disinfect this appliance not only prevents this problem, but also helps to keep each of its components in perfect condition.
Fortunately, there are several home-made tricks that, based on natural ingredients, allow to thoroughly clean the washer and effectively.
In today’s article, we want to share with you the 4 top tips that will allow you to take care of your washing machine in minutes.
Started to take notes!
1. General cleaning of the washing machine
A mixture prepared with hot water and vinegar is one of the best ways to make a general cleaning of the washing machine, since it allows eliminating bacteria, fungi and most difficult stains to remove.
We advise you to repeat this cleaning at least once a month to prevent the appearance of mold and bad odors.
Ingredients
- Hot water (to taste)
- ½ cup of apple cider vinegar (125 ml)
What must you do?
- Fill the washer with hot water, add the vinegar and run the short wash cycle.
- When finished, open the washing machine and let it dry for about an hour.
2. Cleaning the filter
The filter is the component of the machine, which usually is located under the door. It is probably the most difficult part to clean, since it requires great delicacy and precision.
In this case, it is not to use a special product, but to identify which substances are trapped inside it.
What must you do?
- Unplug the washing machine, make sure there is no water inside and remove the filter cover.
- Turn the knob from right to left until it comes out completely.
- Remove tissue debris, paper, dirt and any other object that is stuck.
- After that, take a screwdriver and spin a turbine that is located inside the filter, to remove residues that are located in this area.
- Tightly close both sides before using the washing machine to prevent water from seeping in this area.
3. Clean the rubber gasket
The washing machine rubber seal is the component where there are more mold and bad smells, because it is easily retains moisture.
Although you can dry it after washing with a towel or a cloth, almost always they remain residues which, with time, do make it pay.
To prevent germs and fungi accumulate in this area, you can take advantage of the antiseptic power of the hydrogen peroxide and lemon.
Ingredients
- 3 liters of water
- ¼ cup lemon juice (62 ml)
- 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide (250 l)
What must you do?
- Squeeze the juice of lemon fresh, add it to a bowl containing three liters of water and, immediately after, add the hydrogen peroxide.
- Look good in that position is the seal so that, when turned, there is hard to put it back.
- Once you have found the mold, sprinkle the lemon-based disinfectant and hydrogen peroxide and rub well with a sponge.
- Repeat the same passage along the seal to remove all the mushrooms.
- Before you put it back, spray a little ‘mixture and finish with a dry cloth.
You may also like to read another article on SevenFrigo: Best economic washing machines
4. Clean the drawer for detergent and fabric softener
It is normal in the drawer for detergent and fabric softener residue from accumulating many, especially when we use soap powder.
Clean this component of the machine is easy, but also essential, because the residues can ferment and give off bad unwanted odors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of white vinegar (250 ml)
- 1 liter of hot water
What must you do?
- Dilute a cup of white vinegar in a quart of hot water.
- Remove the washing machine drawer and dip it in the mixture obtained.
- Let it soak for about 10 minutes, then rinse and dry well.
- If your washing machine in this piece is non-demountable, you can spray the same mixture and rub over with a sponge.
Each of the washing machines when you have to make maintenance?
It is important to know that these tricks should be repeated at least once every two months, otherwise the dirt and mildew may destroy the washing machine.
Every time you finish washing, try to leave the door open so as to allow proper ventilation inside.