A washing machine is an indispensable assistant in every home, but without regular maintenance it itself becomes a source of dirt, unpleasant Odor and even breakdowns. In this article, we will analyse how to properly clean washing machines of different brands (LG, Samsung, Bosch, IFB, Whirlpool), taking into account their design, loading type and additional functions.
Why does the washing machine need to be cleaned?
Regular
cleaning of the washing machine is necessary because various contaminants
gradually accumulate inside during operation. Over time, scale forms on the
machine parts, which appears due to the use of hard water. These mineral
deposits settle on the heating elements and internal surfaces, reducing the
efficiency of operation.
In addition
to scale, residues of detergents and fabric softeners accumulate in the
machine. These substances are not always completely washed away with water and
gradually accumulate in hard-to-reach places. Especially many such deposits are
formed when using an excessive amount of powder or liquid products.
During the
washing process, various mechanical contaminants remain in the machine - lint
from fabrics, hair, small particles of dirt from clothes. Over time, these
elements can clog filters and the drainage system, impairing the operation of
the machine. Such contaminants accumulate especially actively when washing
heavily soiled items.
A separate
problem is the development of Mold and bacteria in the humid environment of the
washing machine. The most vulnerable places are the rubber cuff of the hatch
and the compartment for detergents. These microorganisms not only create an
unpleasant Odor but can also cause allergic reactions.
All these
types of contamination together lead to serious consequences. Firstly, a
persistent unpleasant Odor appears, which is transferred to clean laundry.
Secondly, the quality of washing significantly deteriorates - clothes may come
out of the machine not completely clean. Thirdly, scale and deposits cause
overheating and premature failure of heating elements. Finally, a dirty machine
begins to consume more electricity, as it requires more time and power to
perform its functions.
How often should you clean
your washing machine?
·
Once
every 1-2 months - preventive cleaning
·
Once
every 6 months - deep cleaning (especially with hard water)
·
After
each wash, wipe the cuff and leave the door slightly open.
What do you need for
cleaning?
·
Citric
acid or vinegar (to remove scale)
·
Baking
soda (to remove odors)
·
Special
products (eg Calgon, Topperr, Dr. Beckmann)
·
An
old toothbrush or sponge
·
Water
and soft cloth
Step-by-step cleaning
instructions
In this
section, we will discuss in detail how to properly clean the drum, heating
element, filter, powder tray and rubber seal. Follow these steps regularly -
and your washing machine will last much longer!
Cleaning the drum and
heating element
Method 1 (citric acid or
vinegar):
·
Pour
100-150 g of citric acid or 200 ml of vinegar (9%) into the powder compartment.
·
Run
an empty wash at 60-90°C (if there is a “Self-cleaning” function, use it).
·
After
the cycle, wipe the drum with a dry cloth.
Method 2 (special means):
·
Use
cleaning tablets or powders
·
Run
the Drum Clean program (available on models with a digital display).
Cleaning the filter and
drain pump
·
Unplug
the machine.
·
Locate
the filter (usually at the bottom behind a small panel).
·
Unscrew
it, remove any debris, rinse under water.
·
Check
the drain hose for blockages.
Cleaning the powder tray
·
Pull
out the tray (press the latch).
·
Soak
in warm water with baking soda or vinegar for 30 minutes.
·
Brush
and dry.
Caring for the rubber cuff
·
Wipe
the cuff with a damp cloth and vinegar.
·
Pay
attention to the folds - Mold accumulates there.
·
After
cleaning, leave the door open for ventilation.
Regular
cleaning of the washing machine is the key to its long and trouble-free
operation. By following these simple steps, you will not only get rid of
unpleasant Odors and plaque but also prevent serious breakdowns. Pay special
attention to the drum, filter and rubber cuff - these are the places where the
most dirt accumulates. Do not forget about prevention: use high-quality
detergents, avoid overloading and periodically run self-cleaning cycles. Your
washing machine will thank you with impeccable operation and fresh laundry!
Advice: if you have hard water or the
machine is used frequently, do a deep cleaning every 1-4 months. And if you
notice a persistent smell or a decrease in the quality of washing - do not
postpone the procedure!
Cleaning features
depending on the model
Front loading models
The main
problem is the rubber seal (door seal), which often becomes a breeding ground
for mold.
Care instructions:
·
After
each wash, thoroughly wipe the inside of the cuff.
·
Once
a month, treat the cuff with hydrogen peroxide or a special antifungal agent.
·
Don't
forget to check the drainage holes at the bottom of the cuff.
Top loading models
The main
problem areas are the mixer and the top of the drum.
How to clean:
·
Clean
the mixer blades regularly to remove any deposits.
·
Check
the space under the drum - small debris may accumulate there.
·
The
filter requires more frequent cleaning, since its design makes it clog up
faster.
Models with inverter motor
The
peculiarity of these models is their increased sensitivity to scale.
Recommendations:
·
Use
only liquid detergents.
·
Descale
at least once every two months.
·
Avoid
powders with aggressive ingredients.
Models with steam function
The steam
generator requires special maintenance.
How to care for it:
·
Run
the steam cleaning program every three months.
·
If
necessary, use only distilled water for construction purposes.
·
Check
the steam nozzles for blockages.
Models for the "smart
home"
These
models have advanced features but require careful handling of electronics.
Features and tips:
·
Self-cleaning
can be started via the app.
·
Some
models themselves remind you of the need for cleaning.
·
Do
not pour water on the control panel.
·
Unplug
the device before cleaning.
·
Update
your software regularly to ensure proper operation of the self-cleaning
functions.
General recommendations
for all models:
·
Always
leave the door/lid slightly open after washing.
·
Use
only high-quality cleaning products
·
Have
it professionally serviced once a year
Important!
For machines with vertical loading and steam function, timely cleaning of the
filter is especially critical - this extends the service life of the pump.
Pollution prevention
·
Use
liquid detergents instead of powder (less residue).
·
Do
not leave wet laundry in the drum.
·
Run
an empty wash with baking soda once a month.
·
Install
a magnetic filter on your water if it is hard.
When to call a technician?
Despite
regular maintenance, sometimes your washing machine requires professional
intervention. Here are the situations when you should contact a specialist:
·
If
there is a smell or residue left after cleaning.
·
If
the machine is noisy or does not spin well (there may be a blockage in the
pump).
·
If
the water heating does not turn on (problem with the heating element).
Regular
cleaning of your washing machine extends its lifespan and improves the quality
of your washing. Depending on the model, the methods may differ slightly, but
the general principle remains the same. Follow our advice and your appliance
will serve you for many years.
