How to clean the washing machine

The washing machine is constantly working on cleaning, but it needs a little care sometimes too.

Cleaning the washing machine is easy and usually doesn't require much effort. The result is that your laundry becomes cleaner and you prevent or eliminate bad odours in the machine.

Besides, it looks much fresher too, of course!

Do you really need to clean the washing machine?

Many people never clean their washing machines.

They think it feels a bit unnecessary, because how dirty can it get inside something that is rinsed with detergent and water several times a week?

But the answer to that question is that it can get quite dirty. Think, for example, of your shower. It’s rinsed all the time too, but it still needs cleaning.

The same goes for kettles that get limescale.

There has only been water in it, and yet you need to remove limescale deposits from the bottom. It's the same with the washing machine, it also needs cleaning from time to time.

Cleaning the washing machine with vinegar

An environmentally friendly household tip you can use to clean the washing machine is to pour 3 decilitres of vinegar into the same compartment where you usually put the detergent.

After that, run a 90-degree programme with an empty machine.

This kills any bacteria and makes the machine much fresher. The vinegar remedies deposits and limescale that may be in the machine.

How to do it:

1. Pour 3 decilitres of vinegar into the detergent drawer.

2. Run a 90-degree programme.

3. Open the door and leave it open when you are not using the machine.

This is a cheap and simple way to clean the washing machine, and it requires almost no work from you.

Besides removing limescale deposits, the vinegar also neutralises bad odours. So if you have trouble with a washing machine that smells bad, this is a good way to get rid of the smell.

The video below has more tips on how to clean your washing machine.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ypqt8lYXaw4

Clean the detergent drawer

A part of the washing machine that is often forgotten is the detergent drawer. If you don’t clean it, it can start to mould.

It is very easy to clean it. Simply take it out, wash it with ordinary dish soap, wipe it dry and put it back!

Clean the filter in the washing machine

The filter in the washing machine needs regular cleaning. Lint from your clothes collects there, but also small items that have fallen out of pockets, such as coins.

If you never empty the washing machine’s filter, it can lead to the machine functioning worse.

When you clean the washing machine filter, it's important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

If you no longer have the user manual for your washing machine, you can probably find it online by searching for your model.

Even if your specific model is not available, you may find a similar version from the same brand that can serve as a guide. The filter is usually located at the front of the washing machine behind a small door.

Cleaning the filter often requires disconnecting the water from the washing machine, so it is a project best saved for a day off when you have time.

It is best if the machine has not been used during the day, as hot water could scald you if it hasn’t cooled down after the last wash.

Depending on your washing machine, there may be other smaller filters at both ends of the hose where the water comes from, as in the video below.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/iKmzUTxViqU

While you’re disconnecting the water from the machine, if necessary, take the opportunity to clean under the washing machine. Vacuum and mop the floor underneath it.

Read more about mopping floors here!

Don’t forget to clean the outside of the washing machine

The outside of the washing machine gets dirty and dusty, and if you’re unlucky you might get dust on your freshly washed clothes.

Use a damp cloth and a cleaning spray or soap diluted in water to clean the washing machine externally. Wipe over the top, buttons and dials, and don’t forget all surfaces on the door itself. Also open the door and clean it and the inside edge.

Clean the rubber seal in the washing machine

A place where mould and dirt can accumulate is the rubber seal around the washing machine’s opening. Wipe it thoroughly with a cloth with any cleaning agent you prefer.

If it has moulded, it may be good to use some bleach, but only a little.

How to avoid bad odours in the washing machine

It’s not fun to wash your clothes and towels in a washing machine that smells bad.

The easiest way to avoid bad odours is to leave the door open when the machine is not in use. This allows it to dry between uses and bacteria don’t get the chance to thrive in a damp environment. Also open the detergent drawer.

It is also important to take the clothes out immediately when the programme is finished and not let them lie inside. Then the clothes can start to smell sour and leave the smell in the machine.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/NDdhOLEOYWA

Time for a big clean?

Cleaning the washing machine is for many something that is easily postponed. Eventually, you have a long list of things you haven’t taken care of, such as cleaning the oven, the fridge and the bathroom tiles.

That’s where we at Städade Hem come into the picture.

When your list becomes too long and you feel you don’t have time, just contact us for deep cleaning in Stockholm.

Treat yourself to the luxury of having a really clean home without lifting a finger!