Stop Wasting Money On Detergent: Learn How To Clean Your Washing Machine Tub And Save!
What To Know
- If you’re noticing musty smells or your clothes aren‘t coming out as clean as they used to, it’s time to give your washing machine tub a thorough cleaning.
- If your washing machine is particularly dirty or has a persistent odor, you can run a chlorine bleach cycle.
- Once the cleaning cycles are complete, wipe down the interior of the washing machine tub with a soft cloth or sponge.
A clean washing machine is essential for maintaining fresh and hygienic laundry. Over time, however, even the most diligent cleaning efforts can’t prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and odor-causing bacteria in the washing machine tub. If you’re noticing musty smells or your clothes aren‘t coming out as clean as they used to, it’s time to give your washing machine tub a thorough cleaning. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you tackle this task effectively.
Understanding the Causes of Washing Machine Odor
Before delving into the cleaning process, it’s important to understand the common causes of washing machine odor:
- Mold and mildew: Damp environments, such as the inside of a washing machine, provide an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew.
- Bacteria: Bacteria thrive on organic matter, which can accumulate in the washing machine tub from laundry residue.
- Hard water minerals: Hard water can leave behind mineral deposits that can trap dirt and bacteria.
- Detergent residue: Excess detergent can build up and create a sticky film that attracts dirt and bacteria.
Essential Cleaning Supplies
To clean your washing machine tub effectively, you’ll need the following supplies:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Chlorine bleach (optional)
- Soft cloths or sponges
- Washing machine cleaner (optional)
Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions
1. Run an Empty Cycle with Hot Water
Start by running an empty cycle on the hottest water setting your washing machine allows. This will help loosen dirt and grime.
2. Add White Vinegar
Pour two cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser. Run another empty cycle on the hottest water setting. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that will help kill bacteria and remove odors.
3. Add Baking Soda
Sprinkle one cup of baking soda into the washing machine tub. Run another empty cycle on a warm water setting. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that will help absorb odors.
4. Run a Chlorine Bleach Cycle (Optional)
If your washing machine is particularly dirty or has a persistent odor, you can run a chlorine bleach cycle. Add one cup of chlorine bleach to the bleach dispenser and run an empty cycle on the hottest water setting. Caution: Do not use chlorine bleach if your washing machine has a stainless steel tub.
5. Wipe Down the Interior
Once the cleaning cycles are complete, wipe down the interior of the washing machine tub with a soft cloth or sponge. Pay special attention to the areas where mold and mildew are likely to grow, such as the door gasket and detergent dispenser.
6. Clean the Dispenser Drawer
Remove the detergent and bleach dispensers and soak them in a solution of warm water and white vinegar for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and replace the dispensers.
7. Run a Rinse Cycle
Run a final rinse cycle on the hottest water setting to remove any remaining cleaning agents.
Tips for Preventing Future Odor
- Regular cleaning: Clean your washing machine tub every month or two to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria.
- Use less detergent: Excess detergent can create a sticky film that attracts dirt and bacteria.
- Leave the door open: Leaving the washing machine door open after each use allows the tub to air out and prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Wipe down the door gasket: Regularly wipe down the door gasket with a dry cloth to remove moisture and prevent mold and mildew.
- Use chlorine bleach occasionally: Running a chlorine bleach cycle once a month can help kill bacteria and prevent odors. **Caution:** Do not use chlorine bleach if your washing machine has a stainless steel tub.
Questions You May Have
Q: How often should I clean my washing machine tub?
A: Every month or two, or more frequently if you notice musty smells or your clothes aren‘t coming out as clean as they used to.
Q: Can I use commercial washing machine cleaners?
A: Yes, but they may not be as effective as natural cleaning agents like white vinegar and baking soda.
Q: Can I use chlorine bleach to clean my stainless steel washing machine tub?
A: No, chlorine bleach can damage stainless steel. Use white vinegar or a stainless steel cleaner instead.
Q: Why is my washing machine tub still smelly after cleaning?
A: There may be hidden areas where dirt and bacteria are accumulating, such as the drain hose or pump. Consider calling a professional appliance repair technician for a thorough cleaning.
Q: How can I prevent my washing machine from getting moldy?
A: Keep the tub dry by leaving the door open after each use. Wipe down the door gasket regularly and run a chlorine bleach cycle once a month (if your machine doesn‘t have a stainless steel tub).
