Limescale is a major enemy of the washing machine and laundry. Such as mold, detergent and fabric softener residues, and bacteria: They damage the washing machine, reduce its life, as well as have a negative impact on the freshness, odor and quality of the washes
For the washing machine to work properly, consume less energy and wash properly, it must be cleaned, like all household appliances. Given the delicate nature of its function and the frequent use we make of it. And to perform a simple, effective and at the same time inexpensive job, always choose the path of cleaning by natural methods, (except in case of wear and dirt accumulated for too long). In addition, it is necessary to distinguish the different parts of the washing machine to be cleaned, namely the door, the drum, the filter and the seal.
Simple and ecological tips for a clean washing machine
How to clean the exterior and the porthole.
To clean the exterior walls and the door, use a spray detergent, perhaps with Marseille soap, or prepare a solution of water and vinegar or water and baking soda. Remove the excess with a soft sponge. Another effective solution for the outer casing and the door is 100 ml of white vinegar, 500 ml of water, 4 drops of lemon essential oil, 1 tablespoon of Marseille soap and 1 tablespoon of baking soda. soda, all of which must be poured into a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the door and the walls of the washing machine, then wipe with a non-abrasive sponge: you will obtain an enviable cleanliness.
How to clean the drum
Once a month, do an empty wash, putting a glass of apple vinegar or white wine in the tub, at a high temperature, to disinfect your washing machine and eliminate any bacteria. Pour a little vinegar into the drum and add baking soda to counteract unpleasant odors. Once every three months, you can schedule a wash with the cotton programme, leaving the drawer open. When the water fills the drawer, pour white vinegar. Then start the cycle and stop it. Allow the vinegar to take effect, then finish the vacuum wash. If you want your drum to always smell good, you can add apple cider vinegar with a few drops of lavender or lemon essential oil when you wash your clothes: the mixture prevents the accumulation of limescale and also makes your clothes very soft. You can also scent the drum by spraying it with a solution of water and lemon.
How to clean the gasket
The seal is a very delicate part of the washing machine, because a lot of dirt accumulates inside and the water stagnates, generating a strong smell. In addition, bacteria and mold proliferate in the seal, which is harmful not only to the machine itself, but also to the hygiene of the washed clothes. The gasket can be cleaned with a paste made from vinegar, lemon and baking soda, which should be mixed until it becomes creamy and then rubbed over the rubber part. The paste must adhere to the rubber to ensure proper cleaning. You can also clean the seal with washing-up liquid dissolved in lukewarm water, then sponge the rubber parts. Water with vinegar is also a good ally and can be rubbed into the parts to be cleaned with a toothbrush.
How to clean the filter
The filter can be cleaned less often than other parts of the washing machine, that is, once a year. When you’re about to do this, turn off the water and obviously don’t leave the washing machine running. When cleaning the filter, it is good to have a small bowl that can collect the spillage of dirty water and various residues. The filter should be washed under running water and scrubbed with a toothbrush and a paste of baking soda to remove limescale and dirt residue. You can also soak the filter in water and vinegar to clean it more thoroughly.
How to Clean a Top Loading Washing Machine
If you have a top loading washing machine. Start a high temperature vacuum wash and stop it as soon as the water fills the drum. When this is the case, add 100 ml of white vinegar and restart the program so that the hot water mixes with the vinegar. Let this mixture sit in the drum for about an hour, then run the washing machine again. At the end of washing, fill the drum with boiling water and a liter of vinegar and repeat the initial operation. Clean your top-loading washing machine at least once a year.
