While a washing machine may look clean, detergent residue, moisture, and bacteria can build up inside over time. This buildup can cause odors, mold, and reduced cleaning performance. This guide explains why regular maintenance is important and outlines seven effective cleaning methods for both front-load and top-load washers. It provides step-by-step instructions for deep-cleaning the drum, rubber seal, filter, and detergent drawer using common household items such as vinegar, baking soda, and, when needed, bleach. Additional tips address issues related to hard water and Calgary’s cold climate to help maintain your washing machine long-term.
Your washing machine works hard every week. However, with time, dirt, detergent and moisture accumulate inside.
The cold weather and hard water in Calgary, AB, worsen this problem even more. This is why it is more important than you expect to know how to clean washing machine properly.
A dirty washing machine leads to bad odours, mould growth, and leaves clothes that never seem fully clean. The good news? When you are following the correct steps, cleaning your washing machine is not complicated.
Ready to clean front-load and top-load washing machines, safely and efficiently? Let’s open the 7 brilliant ideas.
The dirty washing machine will result in:
When your washer has a musty odour, you are not the only one. This usually happens in front-load washing machines, particularly during the long winters in Calgary, when doors remain closed.
Frequent washing makes your washer clean, effective, and durable.
There is no need to clean your washing machine with special equipment or complex washing routines. The following are a few tips that you can follow to keep your washer clean, odor-free and perform even more efficiently.
It is important to know how to clean front-load washing machine models due to the easy trapping of moisture. Front-load washing machines retain the moisture in the drum and the door seal. This increases their likelihood of smelling and moulding.
Steps:
Read more: Step-by-Step Natural Kitchen Sink Cleaning Guide
Over time, top-load washers accumulate detergent residue and hard-water minerals.
When you are not sure of how to clean top-load washing machine models, begin with a deep soak. This eliminates the presence of detergent and mineral deposits.
Steps:
This is a favoured natural remedy for routine cleaning. It dissolves soap scum and eliminates odours. It’s effective for anyone learning how to clean washing machine with vinegar safely safely.
Steps:
This technique will prevent the development of odours and accumulation.
Tip: Do not add vinegar and baking soda together in the same cycle.
Read more: How to Clean a House with White Vinegar
Mould tends to creep into the rubber seal and door folds. Frequent cleaning helps to avoid stains and bad smells.
Steps:
A dirty and clogged filter may lead to drainage issues and a bad smell. Frequent cleaning enhances the performance of the washers.
Steps:
Most washers have built-in cleaning programs. They are beneficial in brand-specific care, and they are intended to clean the drum safely.
Steps:
Read more: How to clean oven racks: 5 effective methods
Bleach works better with serious odour and mould issues; however, it is very powerful and must be handled with caution. Deep cleaning is the best when the odors are not going away.
Steps:
This method explains how to safely clean a washing machine with bleach.
Tip: Never mix bleach with vinegar.
If odors keep coming back:
Smells mean bacteria. Consistent cleaning solves it.
uCan I use vinegar and baking soda in my washing machine to clean it?
Yes, but not together. Add vinegar in the first run cycle: if necessary, add baking soda in the second run cycle.
What is the best way to get rid of the black mold on the rubber seal of a washing machine?
Wipe with vinegar, warm water, and a soft brush. Wipe it dry when it is clean.
Does a 90-degree wash clean a washing machine?
Yes. High heat kills bacteria. Use this technique for deep cleaning.
How do I remove the gunk from my washing machine?
Clean the filter, detergent container and rubber seal. Run a hot cleaning cycle.
Which one is better to clean a washing machine: bleach or vinegar?
Vinegar should be used in case of daily cleaning. Bleach is most viable where there are heavy issues with moulding.
How can you clean a smelly washing machine?
Rinse the drum, filter, rubber seal and run a hot wash with vinegar or bleach.
A clean washing machine is not optional. It’s essential. When your washer is clean, your clothes come out fresher. They smell better. They last longer.
In Calgary, hard water and cold weather make regular washer cleaning even more important. A little maintenance goes a long way.
Clean the drum. Wipe the rubber seal. Check the filter. Run a cleaning cycle once a month. Follow these simple steps, and your washing machine will work better for years.
Your clothes and your nose will thank you.
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Read moreWhile a washing machine may look clean, detergent residue, moisture, and bacteria can build up inside over time. This buildup can cause odors, mold, and reduced cleaning performance. This guide explains why regular maintenance is important and outlines seven effective cleaning methods for both front-load and top-load washers. It provides step-by-step instructions for deep-cleaning the drum, rubber seal, filter, and detergent drawer using common household items such as vinegar, baking soda, and, when needed, bleach. Additional tips address issues related to hard water and Calgary’s cold climate to help maintain your washing machine long-term.
Read more
