How to keep your washing machine clean

Now, I'm not criticising you, but I bet your washing machine smells a little. Is old powder clogging the detergent dispenser? Is there an accumulation of black mould there? Does the drum have a faint smell to it?

Your washing machine will accumulate a variety of odorous, gooey horrors, but the good news is that cleaning it is simple and regular maintenance will also assist to extend its useful life.

Here is our approach on maintaining the cleanliness of your washing machine.

Check for a cleaning mode

There may be a special "cleaning" setting on some contemporary washing machines. If it does, simply adhere to the owner's manual's directions.

Even though you'll probably need to purchase and use a special tablet or cleaning solution, it's still worthwhile to do so at the manufacturer's recommended intervals because the improved performance and longer lifespan of the machine will more than make up for the additional cost of using the right product.

Run an empty hot cycle

Most of us use a relatively low temperature for our daily wash because contemporary detergents and washing machines are so good at getting dirt and grime out of our garments. This permits dirt to accumulate that might have been removed had we occasionally used a hotter wash.

Therefore, maintaining it clean can be achieved by simply running the hottest wash cycle with an empty drum. Just run it once or twice a month, and don't worry about adding detergent or washing powder—hot water, not soap, will do the thing!

Remove the detergent tray

The detergent tray is consistently the dirtiest component of my washing machine, therefore cleaning it thoroughly is my next task. 

However, since you'll be ripping parts out of the washing machine and generally tinkering with it, you'll need to switch off the power to it first. Despite the fact that all contemporary washing machines have interlocks that stop them from operating if the door is open, you should exercise caution, as I do.

The detergent tray can be removed with anything off. Once it's out, washing it is as easy as giving it a warm, soapy water wash in the sink.

Clean the filter

A filter on the drain pump of your washing machine needs to be removed and cleaned periodically as well. If your machine is unique to you, consult the handbook to learn how to clean it since if you do it incorrectly, water could end up all over the floor.

Use less detergent

Modern detergents and washing powders are so efficient that you could probably use a lot less of them than you currently do. I know you're just following the directions on the packet, but the manufacturers have a vested interest in getting you to use more detergent and washing powder than you really need to.

Why not try to lower it, especially if you're doing a routine load that isn't very filthy? It's better for the environment, your wallet, and your washing machine to use less detergent.