If you don’t have a clue on how to sanitize a washing machine, look no further as we’ve got answers for you.
It’s easy to determine when to clean your washing machine. For starters, you can take a closer look. See if there is some sort of build-up. From here, you can also check if your washing machine emits a foul smell. Yes, washing machines get dirty too.
How Can a Washing Machine Get Dirty?
Detergent, hard-water minerals, and laundry soils can build up in unseen areas of your washing machine. If that happens, mold and mildew can happen. That’s why you also have to regularly clean it every six months to avoid problems.
How To Sanitize a Front-Loading Washing Machine?
If you have a front-loading washing machine, you need to prepare the following:
- Baking soda
- Microfiber cloth
- Spray bottle
- White cleaning vinegar
Clean Your Washing Machine Using Vinegar
Spray the gasket with white vinegar and use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe it all off. If you must know, the rubber gasket located at the front of your washer can be a breeding ground for mildew and scum.
Set Your Washer to the Highest Level
It’s important to set your washer to the highest level using the hottest possible temperature. When done, add two cups of white cleaning vinegar to your detergent dispenser and run a full cycle.
Add Baking Soda
With a half cup of baking soda, run another cycle. Make sure that it’s in the same setting as before. Wipe it again using a damp microfiber cloth. Don’t forget to wipe the rest of the machine, too.
How To Sanitize a Top-Loading Washing Machine?
Prepare the following cleaning materials if you have a top-loading washing machine.
- Baking soda
- Toothbrush
- White cleaning vinegar
- Microfiber cloth
Add the Vinegar
Add four cups of vinegar to your top-loading machine and set the washer to the highest level and hottest setting.
Wait for an Hour
When the cycle starts, you can pause the machine and wait for about an hour. While waiting, you can wipe the washer using a microfiber cloth. But before you do, dip it in hot vinegar water first.
With an old toothbrush, scrub your fabric softener and bleach dispenser.
Add Baking Soda
Continue the wash cycle and run another, this time adding baking soda. When done, wipe the top of your washer tub to remove dirt or scum.
Do you think these steps are too much for you? Don’t worry, our Prestigious Cleaning Team is here to help you. We can sanitize your washer and more! Call us right now.
How Do You Prevent Mold and Mildew?
As they always say, prevention is better than cure. If you want your washer to be free from mold and mildew, leave the door or lid open when not in use.
Can You Add More Detergent When Washing Your Laundry?
We know that it’s tempting to add more detergent, thinking it will do your clothes well. But in reality, it won’t. For one, it can leave soap residue on your clothes. Also, it’s not good for the washer.
Always read the instruction manual and follow the recommended amount of detergent to use. In case your clothes need extra cleaning, we suggest using the sanitize cycle. With this, you get to wash using the hottest water and for a longer time, thereby killing more bacteria.
Why Is Overloading Bad For Your Washer?
Sometimes, we want to overload a washer to get things done fast. That can work a couple of times but we guarantee you that it will take a toll on your machine. It will get damaged and you will need to spend more on repairs or even get a new one. In addition to that, overloading your washer won’t be able to thoroughly clean your clothes.
How Do You Take Care of Your Washing Machine?
Here are a few more bonus tips so you can maintain your washer. Of course, we all want it to last for a long time.
Add Enough Space Between Your Wall and Washer
Ensure that there are at least four inches of space between your wall and the washing machine. Otherwise, your hose might get damaged easily.
Use the Right Type Of Detergent
Your detergent can also affect the condition of your washer. Read the manual and see which types of detergent will work best for your model. In most cases, energy-efficient washers will require low-sudsing HE detergent.
Clean the Lint Filter
If you want your machine to work at its best, you must regularly clean the lint filter. This can be found either in the agitator tube or near the top of the washtub.
Check Your Hoses
You need to replace your water hose regularly, so it’s best to check it from time to time. These are prone to cracks and leaks. Whenever you see a problem, replace it right away. However, as a standard, replace your hose after three years.
Transfer Your Laundry To The Dryer Right Away
Once you are done washing your clothes, don’t let it sit in the washer for long hours. If you do, mold and mildew can grow.
Why Do You Need To Call Experts To Sanitize Your Washing Machine?
One of the reasons people call for professional cleaning services is to save time. Let’s face it; you can do so much in an hour. While it’s not hard to clean a washing machine, we know that you have a lot of responsibilities. Or perhaps, you want to do more things.
Another reason is that professional cleaners know how to handle appliances with care. If you ask them to clean your washer, they know what to do. They will use the right equipment and products to ensure that your washer will look and smell good, unscathed.
PCT’s Sanitizing, Disinfection and Cleaning Services
Let PCT do the cleaning for you. We’ve been providing excellent cleaning services to our clients and we want you to experience the same. We also offer other cleaning services and you can check these right now.
To schedule an appointment, call us at (770) 422-5326 or chat with one of our representatives.
