How to clean a washing machine: we explain it to you in detail!

Sooner or later your washing machine really has to be cleaned, because it is very important to regularly clean your washing machine for your laundry as well as the washing machine itself. But how do you clean your washing machine? We explain it step by step in this article.

Why is washing machine cleaning important?

Cleaning your washing machine regularly is important because it prevents soap scum and dirt. If the washing machine is not cleaned regularly it is bad for both your laundry and the washing machine itself. Not cleaning your washing machine can even shorten its lifespan. Besides, a clean washing machine is just nice and fresh for your clothes coming out of the wash.

What do you need for cleaning?

Before you start cleaning your washing machine, it is important to get the right resources. Below, we give a list of the most important supplies for cleaning your washing machine:

• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• A soft cloth or sponge
• A toothbrush
• A microfiber cloth

Washing machine cleaning in 7 steps

Now that you know what tools you need to clean your washing machine, you can get started. Below, we explain in 7 steps how to make your washing machine shine like new again.

1. Clean the drum:

Make sure the drum of your washing machine is empty, then pour two cups of white vinegar directly into the drum. This helps remove soap scum and kills bacteria. After this, run a hot wash cycle without laundry to thoroughly clean the drum.

2. Clean the rubber seal around the door opening

A lot of mold and dirt can sometimes build up in the rubber cuff (the seal around the doorway). Therefore, use a mixture of water and vinegar to wipe the cuff clean with a soft cloth. If the dirt is difficult to scrub away, you can use a toothbrush for this purpose.

3. Clean the soap and fabric softener drawer

Simply remove the drawer and rinse it with warm water. If necessary, use the toothbrush again to remove soap residue in the corners of the drawer. Do dry the drawer well again with a clean cloth before putting it back in the washing machine.

4. Check the filter

The washing machine filter is often forgotten, but is just as important. The filter can get clogged up with lint or other small objects that have ended up in the washing machine. If you do not know where to find the filter, you can easily find it in the manual of your washing machine. If you have lost the manual, you can easily find it online by simply looking up the name of your washing machine + manual in google. Next, simply rinse the filter with warm water and remove the accumulation of dirt.

5. Make the outside of your washing machine shine again

It may not be important for the washing machine or the laundry itself, but it also looks fresh to have your washing machine shine again once in a while. You can easily clean the washing machine itself with a microfibre cloth and a mild detergent.

6. Door and ventilation

Once you have followed all the steps above, it is important to open the door of your washing machine. This will prevent mold from forming. Then also make sure the ventilation holes are free of dust and dirt.

7. Extra fresh with baking soda

As a finishing touch, you can run a second empty cycle with half a cup of baking soda in the drum. This will neutralize odors and remove any remaining stains. Once you’ve done this, your washing machine will be wonderfully clean and ready to run countless washes again!

Extra tips for long-term use of your washing machine

• Carry out the cleaning routine regularly to keep your washing machine in top condition. We recommend doing this at least once every 3 months. 
• Use detergents according to our recommendations to avoid excessive soap.
• Leave the door of your washing machine open for a while after each wash to prevent mold.

Or is it time for a new machine after all?

If you’ve cleaned your washing machine many times before, but it’s still not working quite right anymore, it might be time for a new washing machine, but this is immediately a big investment, isn’t it? Easily rent a washing machine from Homie from €9.99 per month. Still have questions about cleaning your washing machine or renting a washing machine from Homie? Then feel free to contact our customer service team.