Disclosure: homelyee.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. (paid link)
The washing machine is a workhorse of any household, tirelessly cleaning our clothes day in and day out. However, it’s easy to overlook the fact that this essential appliance needs some care, too.
Neglecting to clean your washing machine can lead to many issues affecting your laundry and the machine itself. In this blog, we’ll delve into the consequences of not maintaining your washing machine and why regular cleaning is crucial.
Why You Should Clean Your Washing Machine?
In your washing machine, soap residue, detergent chemicals, and minerals can solidify and form a thin layer that harbors bacteria. Your water won’t heat up as much, and your detergent won’t work if these bacteria clog the internal processes.
Furthermore, washing machines are hot, muggy places by design. This could turn into a haven for bacteria to increase and spread.
This layer of leftover detergent also traps odor particles, so your washer could begin to smell bad. This stench might even rub off on your clothes if it gets terrible.
In this sense, keeping your washer fresh and clean is essential to safeguarding both your family and your clothes.
What Happens If You Don’t Clean Your Washing Machine?
Washing machines are essential household appliances since they make it easy and quick for us to clean our filthy laundry. However, because they believe their washing machines are self-cleaning, many individuals frequently neglect to clean them. Although this is partly accurate, washing machines still need to be cleaned regularly to prevent the accumulation of mold and dirt.
We’ll go over five compelling arguments in this post for cleaning your front-load washer regularly. Following that, we’ll send you detailed instructions on how to clean it.
Build-Up of Dirt and Residue:
Over time, soap scum, dirt, and fabric softener residue can accumulate in your washing machine. This build-up can lead to unpleasant odors and even transfer onto your clothes, leaving them less clean than when they went in. Additionally, it can create a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially causing skin irritation for those wearing the clothes.
Clogged Drains and Filters:
Failing to clean your washing machine can result in clogged drains and filters. This can lead to slow drainage or, in more severe cases, complete blockages. Not only does this impede the washing process, but it can also strain the machine’s internal components, potentially leading to costly repairs.
Reduced Efficiency:
A dirty washing machine has to work harder to do its job. The build-up of residue and debris can decrease efficiency, resulting in longer wash times and higher energy bills. Regular cleaning can help maintain optimal performance and extend the lifespan of your machine.
Hard Water Build-Up:
In areas with hard water, mineral deposits can accumulate in the drum and the heating element of your washing machine. This can reduce its ability to effectively clean your clothes and lead to premature wear and tear on the machine.
Foul Odors and Mold Growth:
Moist environments are breeding grounds for mold and mildew, and your washing machine is no exception. Neglecting to clean it can result in foul odors emanating from your machine and, in some cases, visible mold growth. This not only affects the cleanliness of your laundry but also poses potential health risks.
How Often You Should Clean Your Washing Machine
Your washing machine should be emptied and let to air dry since moist and muggy conditions are a haven for bacteria.
Generally speaking, a monthly cleaning of the washing machine is necessary. However, the residue that has built up may make this challenging.
It not only draws bacteria into the washer but also obstructs the proper draining of the apparatus. To avoid damaging the washer, how can one properly clean and empty it?
How To Clean The Washer
Here are the tips for you on how to clean the washer.
Natural Cleaners
Thus, we set out to discover the most economical and environmentally responsible method of cleaning your washer. Although bleach is frequently used to clean washing machines, septic systems can become clogged by this toxic and malodorous substance. We searched for a natural solution for your family and your machine.
- White vinegar’s acidity aids in eroding accumulated residue while also disinfecting and sanitizing. Moreover, the vinegar can clean your pipes’ interiors as it drains away! Because white vinegar has deodorizing qualities as well, it will eliminate unpleasant smells from both your septic system and the basin.
- Baking soda will give it even more freshness! It can neutralize smells and “exfoliate” away soap residue. The accomplice of white vinegar is baking soda.
Chemical Cleaners
- Use an all-purpose cleanser to clean the machine’s inside and the seals surrounding the entrance before clearing the filters and drain. It’s critical to remove this gunk since it can accumulate and make the environment even more inviting for opportunistic microbes.
- Run an empty load through hot water with bleach or a bleach substitute to disinfect. An essential factor in pathogen control is temperature: For enteric viruses and bacteria to be effectively rendered inactive, the temperature of your water must be higher than 40 to 60 degrees Celsius or 104 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cleaning The Outside
Remember to take care of the detergent dispensers and the top! People frequently place their clean clothes on top of their washing machines, but you shouldn’t place just washed clothing on anything that could harbor bacteria!
Additionally, the detergent itself may contaminate bacteria and germs due to clogged, sticky, and dirty detergent dispensers!
An old fabric should be dipped in two cups of water to one cup of white vinegar. Clean the dispensers, doorknobs, doors, and the washer’s top. Use an old toothbrush to go into any hard-to-reach areas and clean the crevices.
FAQ
Q1. Is It Mandatory To Clean The Washing Machine?
As advised, thoroughly clean your machine once a month. When not in use, keep the dispenser drawer and washing machine door slightly open. After the cycle, remove the clothing as quickly as possible; do not leave them in the drum.
Q2. Why Is Cleaning Washing Machine Important?
What Makes Your Washer Clean? In your washing machine, soap residue, detergent chemicals, and minerals can solidify and form a thin layer that harbors bacteria. Your water won’t heat up as much, and your detergent won’t be as effective if these bacteria clog the internal processes.
Q3. What Happens If I Don’t Clean My Washing Machine Filter?
In addition to reducing drainage and causing lint buildup on clothing, operating a washing machine with a clogged filter can also leave behind undesired detergent residue and an unpleasant smell on your otherwise “clean” garments.
Q4. How Do I Know If My Washing Machine Is Clogged?
Your machine probably has a clogged drain line if it turns on and the water pump sounds but no water flows. The hose can be taken off the machine’s rear and examined for any debris or dust that might have clogged it.
Q5. How Do I Know If My Washing Machine Filter Is Clogged?
Because of this, you should clean your filter anytime you notice that there is a build-up of laundry detergent or residue on your clothes, that your clothes are excessively wet when removed from the washing machine, that there is a build-up of lint when cleaning your lint filter, or that the water in the washer doesn’t drain completely.
Conclusion
Regularly cleaning your washing machine is not just a matter of hygiene; it’s also a way to protect your investment and ensure the longevity of this essential household appliance.
Taking the time to perform simple maintenance tasks, such as wiping down the drum and seals, running cleaning cycles, and regularly checking and cleaning filters, can go a long way in preventing the abovementioned issues.
Remember, a well-maintained washing machine not only keeps your clothes fresh and clean but also saves you time, money, and potential headaches.