Limescale and mould make cleaning the washing machine a hassle as both can be difficult to remove.
The nasty buildup of limescale and mould can develop in the drum, the draw and the washing machine rubber seal.
To combat this, appliance experts at LG have shared their top tips to clean each part of your washing machine, and you need one ingredient – white vinegar.
How to remove mould and limescale from the washing machine drawer
To clean the detergent drawer, first, switch your machine off, then pull the drawer out as possible before getting any resistance. Then push down on the blue button to fully release the drawer and remove it from the machine.
Soak the drawer in a bowl of hot water and vinegar. Whilst the drawer is soaking in your hot water mix, make sure to wipe down and clean out the inside of the detergent drawer – you can do this with a microfibre cloth with some water and vinegar.
The experts said: “It’s important to get into the top of the compartment as this is where most of the mouldy and limescale builds up. If you have any dirt stuck in crevices, use a toothbrush to release those final unwanted bits.”
Meanwhile, your detergent drawer should have soaked for long enough to release any built-up mould and soap scum, which you can now remove with a cloth or sponge.
Once you have finished scrubbing rinse your drawer in warm water and dry off completely before re-inserting into the machine.
How to remove mould and limescale from the washing machine drum
To best clean the washing machine drum make sure the machine is empty and switched off. Then spray the inside of the drum with white vinegar and wipe it down with a microfibre cloth.
The pros used: “Make sure not to do this too frequently, especially near the seal of the machine as the vinegar can corrode the rubber seal.”
How to remove mould and limescale from the washing machine drain filter
To begin, switch off your washing machine and remove the cover panel in the bottom corner on the outside of the Washing Machine, if you cannot locate the filter then check the manual.
To remove your filter, twist the cap on the outside and it should easily pull out of place. If it feels stuck, try to gently manipulate it by moving it around loosening up any lint or built-up detergent.
When you remove the filter, it will likely be covered in a layer of wet liquid. Use a paper towel to remove the debris and excess liquid – this will take away any built-up detergent and lint on the outside.
Once you have removed all debris, remove the screen and soak it in a bowl of hot water for 10 minutes to soften and remove any lingering detergent, fabric conditioner or lint that could not be cleared.
Before replacing the filter in the machine check the inside machine for any loose lint, use a sponge or cloth to remove any residue. Then replace the filter making sure to screw it in correctly and then replace the cover to make sure it is secure.
How to remove mould and limescale from the washing machine rubber seal
The biggest culprit for bad smells coming from your washing machine is the seal, as it is the place where most mould and dirt build up because it’s the final barrier to stop your Washing Machine, leading to high moisture levels.
One of the “most effective ways to clean your seal” is to use white vinegar and a cotton bud or add baking soda directly to the drum on a 90-degree wash cycle.
White vinegar can be picked up from all local supermarkets like Tesco for 35p, Sainsbury’s for 40p and Morrisons for 99p.
Alternatively, households can pick up a large 5L container of white vinegar on Amazon for £6.99 which will last a long time.
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