How to clean the washing machine and get rid of the smell

Every appliance requires maintenance and your washing machine is definitely no exception! Are you wondering what cleaning agents to use, whether vinegar and citric acid are enough, and how often the washing machine needs to be cleaned?

Was your laundry fresher and more fragrant after washing? Then, instead of experimenting with different washing powders or fabric softener brands, try to focus on basic maintenance so that one of your most useful helpersnot only performs its function correctly, but also lasts longer. In addition to regular cleaning using specially designed products, which rinse the hoses and internal equipment of the washing machine in the empty-running program at high temperature, it is also good to adopt a few basic principles. 

Every appliance requires maintenance and your washing machine is definitely no exception! Are you wondering what cleaning agents to use, whether vinegar and citric acid are enough, and how often the washing machine needs to be cleaned?

Was your laundry fresher and more fragrant after washing? Then, instead of experimenting with different washing powders or fabric softener brands, try to focus on basic maintenance so that one of your most useful helpersnot only performs its function correctly, but also lasts longer. In addition to regular cleaning using specially designed products, which rinse the hoses and internal equipment of the washing machine in the empty-running program at high temperature, it is also good to adopt a few basic principles. 

Where dirt settles in the washing machine

Detergent residues are already visible on their dispenser. Dirt from pockets and other parts of clothing, as well as hair or pet hair, settles inside the rubber seal of the washing machine door. When you add sweat and dirt from the laundry, the source of the possible smell is from the washing machine or its insufficient washing performance is obvious. Therefore, it is necessary to flush and clean the drain water hose once in a while.

Rubber seal at the washing machine

Easily accessible parts such as the rubber seal and the washing machine door itself are best wiped with a damp cloth after each wash and allowed to dry. After washing, the door should remain open for some time so that not only the washing drum but also the inside of the washing machine can dry. The container with the detergent and fabric softener dispenser must be removed after each wash, ideally washed under running water and also allowed to dry thoroughly. These routine actions will simply extend the life of your washing machine and eliminate the need for expert intervention.

What to clean in the washing machine

Another part of your washing machine requires regular maintenance. Its neglect is usually manifested by slower water flow, odors, and louder operation. It is a filter, usually located at the bottom of the washing machine. After opening the cover, it is necessary to prepare a dry cloth for any residual water that may leak out. Unscrewed filter then same as wash the container under running water, let it dry and put it back. You should flush the filter in this way at least once a year. 

How often to clean the washing machine

The last, but probably the most important action, you should do once a quarter. It is as automated as the washing itself. Preparations for complete cleaning of the drum and other internal parts of your washing machine can be purchased at any drug store. When using them, just follow the instructions. Pour the product into the container and start the empty washing machine on a long program with high temperature. It is also recommended to wash a batch of laundry at a higher temperature, at 60 or 90 degrees, at least once a month. Ideal victims for this washing are towels or bed linen.  

Top loading washing machines and other cleaning methods

For top-loading washing machines, exactly the same principles apply as for their front-loading sisters. A minor disadvantage is the poorer accessibility of some places. A dish sponge is suitable for cleaning, a used toothbrush is a proven recipe for rubber seals or more resistant deposits. You can also achieve good results by cleaning the inside of the washing machine with a dishwasher tablet or by using commonly available products such as vinegar or citric acid.

Cleaning the washing machine with vinegar

Using vinegar is simple: pour two cups of vinegar into the drum and run the empty washing machine on the longest program and highest possible temperature. You can replace the vinegar with two cups of baking soda. With citric acid, 250 ml and a program at 60 degrees are sufficient. Proven advice also includes not exaggerating the amount of detergent or fabric softener and adapting its amount to the hardness of the water. The washing machine should be placed in a dry and well-ventilated room. 

Old washing machine for a new one 

None of these tips help you? Then you have nothing else to do but look for a new washing machine. For less than 370 euros, you can get an elegant, pre-loaded washing machine ORAVA WMO-810 A, whose 15 programs can handle up to 8 kilograms of laundry. And for less than 280 euros, you can get a similarly equipped washing machine ORAVA WMO-511, which will wash 5 kilos of laundry for you. So don't forget to take good care of your helpers, let them serve you as long as possible!