3 Simple Steps To A Sparkling Clean Washing Machine – Vinegar And Baking Soda To The Rescue!

Are you tired of your washing machine smelling musty or leaving your clothes unclean? It’s time to give it a deep clean with the power of vinegar and baking soda! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to clean your washing machine with these two household staples, ensuring your laundry is fresh and your machine is running at its best.

Why Use Vinegar and Baking Soda?

Vinegar and baking soda are both natural cleaning agents that work together to dissolve limescale, remove odors, and disinfect your washing machine. Vinegar is a mild acid that breaks down mineral deposits and kills bacteria, while baking soda neutralizes odors and absorbs moisture.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions

Materials You’ll Need:

• 2 cups white vinegar
• 1 cup baking soda
• Clean cloths or sponges
• Optional: old toothbrush or Q-tips

Instructions:

1. Run a Hot Water Cycle: Start by running an empty hot water cycle to remove any loose dirt or debris.

2. Add Vinegar: Pour 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the washing machine drum.

3. Run a Vinegar Cycle: Run a hot water cycle with the vinegar added. This will help dissolve limescale and kill bacteria.

4. Add Baking Soda: Once the vinegar cycle is complete, add 1 cup of baking soda to the drum.

5. Run a Baking Soda Cycle: Run another hot water cycle with the baking soda added. This will neutralize odors and absorb moisture.

6. Wipe Down Surfaces: While the baking soda cycle is running, use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe down the exterior of the washing machine, including the door, control panel, and detergent drawer.

7. Clean the Dispenser Drawer: Remove the detergent drawer and soak it in a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water for at least 30 minutes. Use an old toothbrush or Q-tips to clean any stubborn residue.

8. Rinse Thoroughly: Once the baking soda cycle is complete, run an additional hot water cycle with nothing added to rinse away any remaining vinegar or baking soda residue.

9. Air Dry: Leave the washing machine door and detergent drawer open to air dry completely. This will help prevent mold and mildew from forming.

Additional Tips for Maintaining a Clean Washing Machine

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your washing machine with vinegar and baking soda every 1-2 months to prevent buildup and odors.
• Use Front-Loading Detergent: Front-loading machines use less water, so it’s important to use detergents specifically designed for them to avoid excess sudsing.
• Avoid Overloading: Don’t overload your washing machine, as this can cause the clothes to not get cleaned properly.
• Clean the Lint Trap: Regularly clean the lint trap to prevent lint buildup, which can lead to clogs and odors.
• Use Chlorine Bleach Occasionally: Occasionally run a hot water cycle with chlorine bleach to disinfect the machine and remove stubborn stains.

Troubleshooting Common Washing Machine Problems

• Musty Odor: If your washing machine smells musty, it may be due to mold or mildew. Clean the machine with vinegar and baking soda as described above and leave the door and drawer open to air dry.
• Limescale Buildup: Limescale buildup can cause your machine to run less efficiently. Run a vinegar cycle to dissolve the limescale and restore performance.
• Clogged Drain Hose: A clogged drain hose can prevent water from draining properly. Check the hose for any blockages and clean it if necessary.
• Leaking Washing Machine: If your washing machine is leaking, it could be caused by a damaged hose, gasket, or pump. Contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.

Wrapping Up

Cleaning your washing machine with vinegar and baking soda is an easy and effective way to keep it running smoothly and your laundry fresh. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your washing machine is clean, disinfected, and free of odors. Remember to maintain your machine regularly to prevent future problems and enjoy clean, fresh laundry for years to come.