Care | 6 minute read |
You run water and washing detergent in your washing machine regularly. Does it mean it’s clean? Not necessarily. Like any other home appliance, your washing machine needs a deep clean so it performs at its best for longer. Otherwise, mould and mildew may grow in its damp crevices, causing both your machine and laundry to smell.
As a rule of thumb, thoroughly clean it at least once a month depending on your washing habits. Don’t worry, this is easy with Electrolux washing machines. Whether for a front-loader or a top-loader, refer to this step-by-step guide on how to clean a washing machine:
The process, on average, will take about three hours, but most of it is just waiting for the cycles to finish.
Here are the materials you need:
For each step, focus on one area.
Make sure no clothes are left inside before you start. Follow the instructions of the washing machine cleaner you have. This may come in a form of a tablet, powder, or liquid that you’ll have to load directly in your drum or detergent dispenser.
You can then run your washing machine on a normal cycle with hot water. Some Electrolux washing machines also have dedicated cleaning programmes like Tub Clean or Clean Washer. When the cycle ends, wipe the drum so no residue is left.
>>> Read more: A complete guide on how to use washing machine
Water may be collecting in your drain and filter, potentially harbouring germs. When the cycle is finished, unplug your machine, then look for a small panel on its lower front portion. Ready towels or a tray underneath to contain the water. Open the panel and unscrew the dial slowly to control water as it flows out.
Completely unscrew the cap, inspect both the filter and drain, then remove any foreign objects clogging them such as lint or forgotten objects from pockets. If left unchecked, this could cause excessive vibrations and long cycle times. Run the filter through warm water and scrub with a small brush.
Soap and water residue in the rubber gasket combined with the warm environment inside your machine, is the perfect breeding ground for mould and odours.
While the washing machine cleaner should have cleaned this, it’s best to check again. For a more thorough clean, spray hot soapy water on the gasket, gently pulling back the folds to really get in there, then wipe with a clean cloth. Include the inside of the door too.
Overtime, detergent can build up in the crevices of your dispenser, causing blockage. To clean it, gently remove the drawer. One long tray should easily slide off. Separate all the removable inserts, and soak them in warm soapy water. Scrub off all residue to make sure they’re squeaky clean, and then wipe dry. Before returning it, use a brush or cloth to make sure the drawer cavity is free of any powder residue.
Finish off by wiping down the machine exterior and controls using a damp cloth. Now your machine is spotless inside and out.
Read more:
For each step, focus on one area.
Follow these steps on how to clean washing machine tub:
Gently slide off the detergent dispenser then soak in warm soapy water. Give it a good scrub so no residue remains. Brush the inside of the drawer compartment too.
Using warm soapy water, scrub around the edge and the inside of the machine door. If your washing machine has an agitator, wipe its top too. These areas will have less grime because water usually drips down. Rinse with water afterwards.
Don’t forget the outside of your machine. Wipe its controls and the rest of its body using a damp microfibre cloth to remove dust, grime, and drips of laundry product. Take care not to use any harsh chemicals or any abrasive material to maintain its coat.
>>> Read more: Differences between top-load and front-load washing machines
Now you know how to clean a washing machine. The key is to choose a washing machine with a self-cleaning feature like the Elite Care 300 Top Loading Washing Machine with Tub Clean. Other machines also add an extra layer of hygiene like the UltimateCare 700 Front Load Washing Machine with HygienicCare that removes 99.9% of germs in clothes
Discover more high-quality washing machines from Electrolux Philippines:
It is recommended that a washing machine be deep-cleaned at least once a month. Cleaning can be done more frequently if you wash pieces of clothes that are especially dirty and filled with grime.
You can leave your washed clothes in the washer from eight to twelve hours. After that, they will start to create odour, which can cause mould and mildew to the machine.
You can run an empty cycle once a week using two cups of white vinegar instead of detergent. Simply add the vinegar to the detergent dispenser. This will kill germs and bacteria in the washing machine.
However, for the best care of your machine, it might be necessary to use professional cleaners.
There are several signs that your washing machine needs cleaning:
1. Before every wash, give your clothes a thorough going over before putting them in to remove loose coins, tissue or paper from pockets. Shake off excess dirt from heavily soiled garments.
2. After the cycle finishes, immediately take the clothes out.
3. After washing, immediately wipe the rubber gasket, and keep the door and drawer ajar to dry out the interior and prevent moulds and odours.
4. Occasionally use a water softening powder to slow limescale buildup.
5. Use only the correct amount of detergent and softener for your load. Otherwise, you risk damaging your clothes and leaving more residue in the drum. Most Electrolux washing machines have an AutoDose feature that helps to measure for you based on your load so you get it right every time.