Cleaning the Washing Machine
Our washing machines are supposed to make our clothes smell fresh and clean, but they occasionally develop their own odour. If you’ve lately stepped into the laundry room and been assaulted with a musty odour, or if you’ve found yourself clutching your nose while putting in or taking out your clothing, it’s probably time to clean your smelly washing machine.
Let’s speak about why your machine stinks in the first place before we go into how to clean it.
We might think that because our machines are drenched in clean water and scented soaps and detergents every time we use them, they’re getting cleaned along with the clothes they’re tumbling, but in truth, it’s the soap or detergent and water that causes the musty odour you’re trying to get rid of.
While all machines have the potential to stink, front loaders and efficient machines are more vulnerable because they use less water while washing your clothes.
Because the interior of the machine isn’t always completely saturated, detergent and soap scum are frequently left behind when the cycle is over. This soap scum accumulates over time, resulting in the musty odour that pervades your laundry area.
Top Load & Front Loader Washing Machine
When figuring out how to clean a smelly washer, the first thing to consider is whether you have a top-load or front-load washer. Although front-loading washing machines outperform top-loaders in almost every category, from cleaning quality to efficiency, they are significantly more prone to becoming smelly over time if not properly maintained.
Your machine odours, soap scum build-up, and the development of mold and mildew are all caused by the design of front-load washers. Only the bottom half of the washtub is filled with water in high-efficiency front-loaders. The drum then tumbles the garments through the water, obviating the need to completely fill the tub.
This design necessitates the use of high-efficiency detergents. There isn’t enough water to flush the cleansers away when non-HE washing detergents are used instead. Dirt and debris from your filthy clothes can coat the washer drum with a layer of soap scum. Mold and mildew thrive in this environment, which is exacerbated by the wet heat of your washer.
The rubber door gasket that keeps water from seeping has a similar effect. These gaskets collect dirt, soap scum, and other debris, providing still another entry point for bad odours.
How to Clean your smelly Washing Machine?
Clean your smelly washing machine once over every now and again isn’t the most glamorous of tasks, but it will maintain it in top shape. The complete process won’t take long if you’re methodical about it — simply follow these simple steps:
- Refer to your machine’s owner’s handbook for cleaning recommendations. Some manufacturers forbid the use of de-scaling products or cleaners in their machines, and using them could void your warranty. However, the limescale in the drum can be removed with a specialist anti-limescale product, which is especially important if you live in a hard water area, but make sure to check your manufacturer’s instructions first.
- Remove the detergent drawer from front-loading machines (your manual may have instructions for how to do so). To eliminate any residue or mould, soak it in hot water and scrub it with an old (clean) toothbrush. Before putting it back, give it a thorough rinse and allow it to dry.
- Clean the inside of your machine with an antibacterial laundry sanitiser. Pour 100ml of Persil antibacterial laundry sanitiser into the empty drum of your machine and wash at 60°C for best results. Add no detergent or clothes to the mix.
- When the cycle is over, open the door and let the inside of the drum air dry. If there is any lingering odour or residue, repeat the procedure.
- Finally, use a moist cloth to wipe around the machine’s rubber seals, being sure to push them away from the metal whenever possible to remove any hidden residue. Wipe out your machine’s surfaces as well.
- Your machine should now have a fresh, clean scent about it!
How Often do Washing Machines Need Cleaning?
Although the frequency of cleaning will vary depending on the amount of use, it’s a good idea to clean your washing machine once a month. You may also keep an eye out for additional indicators that your washer requires some TLC. These are some of them:
- A musty or damp-smelling machine: If your machine smells musty or damp, it’s time to clean it. Our instructions will show you how to clean a stinky washing machine and get rid of unwanted odours that are commonly produced by germs.
- Rubber seal: Pay particular attention to the rubber seal surrounding the door for mould or mildew. If you see black spots, it’s most likely mould or mildew, which thrives in wet conditions.
- Clogged filter: If your washing machine includes a filter, it’s crucial to check it on a regular basis because it can accumulate everything from hair to fluff and other debris. If you don’t empty it on a regular basis, it could be one of the causes of any unpleasant odours coming from your washer.
- Dirty detergent drawer: If your machine has a detergent drawer for powders, liquids, and fabric conditioners, it’s critical to maintain it clean. Residue from these products can accumulate in the drawer and can be removed with a quick soak or wiped with a moist cloth. Because this is a dark, damp section of the machine, failure to do so could result in mould growth.
Clean your Smelly Washing Machine with AEG Cleaning Services
Now, after reading the above details, many of you may know how to get better results in your laundry. Not only do laundry but also have fewer difficulties with your appliance now that you know how to disinfect your washer machine and how to keep up with basic maintenance through washing machine cleaning.
However, these details are not enough for everyone. These cleaning processes take plenty of time and effort but yet few of you can do it properly. The best option is to hire a professional like AEG Cleaning Services. They offer efficient and expert washing machine cleaning services at the best cost.
If you want to avail this service and other services like carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, home cleaning, landlords & Airbnb, and office cleaning. You can book with us now!
