A washing machine drum, over time, can accumulate soap scum, dirt, and bacteria, which may leave your laundry smelling musty or not as fresh as it should be. Regularly cleaning the drum will not only help keep your clothes cleaner but also prolong the lifespan of your washing machine. Here's how you can clean your washing machine drum in a few easy steps.
1. Run a Hot Cycle with Vinegar
One of the most effective ways to clean the inside of your washing machine drum is by running a hot water cycle with white vinegar. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer, which helps break down soap scum, mold, and mildew.
How to do it:
- Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the detergent compartment.
- Set your washing machine to the hottest water setting and run a complete cycle without clothes inside.
- The vinegar will work to remove buildup and sanitize the drum.
2. Clean the Drum with Baking Soda
After running the vinegar cycle, the next step is to deodorize and further clean the drum using baking soda. Baking soda is a natural cleaner that helps absorb odors and removes stains.
How to do it:
- Add ½ cup of baking soda directly into the drum.
- Run a hot water cycle again, this time without any laundry.
- This will scrub away any remaining grime while neutralizing odors.
3. Wipe Down the Drum and Door
Once the cleaning cycle is done, it's important to wipe down the drum and door of your washing machine. This will remove any residual moisture and debris that may have accumulated.
How to do it:
- Use a clean microfiber cloth or a soft towel to wipe down the interior of the drum, the rubber seal, and the door.
- Pay special attention to the rubber gasket (the rubber seal around the door), as it can often trap water and soap scum.
4. Clean the Detergent Drawer
The detergent drawer can also build up with soap scum and mold, so don't forget to give it a good clean.
How to do it:
- Remove the detergent drawer from the washing machine.
- Soak it in warm water and scrub it with an old toothbrush to remove any residue.
- Wipe it dry with a towel before reinserting it back into the machine.
5. Check and Clean the Drain Filter
Your washing machine may have a drain filter that can become clogged with debris, lint, or fabric softener buildup. Cleaning this filter can prevent drainage issues and ensure smooth operation.
How to do it:
- Locate the drain filter, which is typically found at the bottom of the front panel or near the bottom of the washing machine.
- Unscrew the filter and remove any debris. Be prepared for some water to spill out.
- Rinse the filter under warm water and scrub any remaining particles with a soft brush before putting it back.
6. Leave the Door Open
After cleaning, always leave the washing machine door open for a while to let the drum air out. This helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which thrive in dark, damp environments.
How to do it:
- Leave the door open for at least an hour or until the interior is completely dry.
- This step ensures that any lingering moisture evaporates, keeping your washer fresh and free of unpleasant odors.
7. Repeat Regularly
To keep your washing machine in top condition, it's recommended to clean the drum at least once a month. For households that wash loads of laundry frequently or with heavy detergent use, you may want to clean it more often to prevent buildup.
Tip: If you notice that your washer has a particularly strong odor or you feel like it's not cleaning effectively, you might need to clean it more frequently or perform a deep cleaning cycle using a commercial washing machine cleaner.
Conclusion
Cleaning your washing machine drum doesn't require much time or effort, but it's an essential task that can extend the life of your machine and improve the cleanliness of your laundry. By following these simple steps---using vinegar and baking soda, cleaning the detergent drawer and filter, and wiping down the drum---you can ensure that your washing machine remains in top condition for years to come.