Cleaning washing machines may sound counterproductive as they are intended to clean dirty laundry.
However, if the appliances themselves are not cleaned it will result in clothes coming out of the wash smelly and a foul odour can build up in your machine as well as dirt and bacteria.
Sarah Dempsey, a cleaning expert from MyJobQuote, has shared the best way to clean a washing machine and what products to use.
Since they use so much water, it’s no surprise that the damp environment inside a washing machine can be a breeding ground for mould and bacteria.
But it can be tricky to dislodge all the dirt and grime, especially if you don’t know how to do it without leaving permanent damage. How often you should clean your washing machine depends on how much you use it.
It’s easy to work out when certain areas, like the door seal, need a scrub – if you notice unpleasant smells coming from the inside of your washing machine, or if there are visible dark marks, then that is always a good indicator that it needs to be cleaned.
There is a simple method to clean washing machines that will have your seal, drum and drawer looking brand new in a few minutes.
Sarah said: “The best way to clean your washing machine seal is to run a hot wash cycle.”
As for what cleaning products to use, Sarah suggested: “You can purchase specific cleaners designed for cleaning your washing machine, such as Calgon products.
“These are the very best to remove dirt and bacteria from your entire washing machine system, ensuring that it is safe, fresh, and free from smells.”
The expert added that there are some household products that you can use to clean your washing machine.
She said: “For example, you can spray the washing machine drum with white vinegar and wipe it all around the drum with a clean cloth. This will help to get rid of residues and hard water stains and can even lift away grease easily.
“You can also pour distilled white vinegar into the detergent dispenser and run the washing machine on a cycle with hot water. This will help to clean further into the system,” she added.
To reduce mould building up inside the seal and drawer after cleaning it, Sarah said not to keep those areas closed.
She explained: “Whenever your washing machine is not in use, it’s important to leave the door slightly ajar.
“As well as the detergent drawer as this will allow air to circulate through the system, preventing the build-up of mould and bacteria.”
Another area to consider cleaning is the standpipe. “If you complete these steps and your washing machine is still smelling, it’s worth inspecting the standpipe as there may be a collection of dirty, smelly water or mould,” Sarah said.
