How to clean a Top load washing machine – As your clothes need regular washing to remove any kind of dirt, your washing machine also needs your attention and cleaning. Clean laundry smells quite fresh, but if you’re finding a less-than-fresh smell whenever you open the washing machine door then it is the right time to take action.
Are you not sure where to start cleaning the washing machine? But your washing machine can pick up all kinds of things, like dirt, bacteria, mildew, and used soap. Your machine will start to smell musty if you don’t clean it after a while.
It is important to clean your machine to keep its top-notch function at its highest potential.
Why is it Important to Clean Top Load Washing Machine?
Suppose your laundry has begun to smell musty or if you find your clothes coming dirty after washing, it becomes necessary to take immediate action. Here comes the right time to know how to wash your top loader washing machine that smells. Your washing machine needs cleaning too. It is recommended to clean your washing machine at least once a month. This recommendation is crucial because of the residue of the laundry detergents and fabric softener from the layer of gunk which is available in the wash drum.
Most of the time trapped moisture inside the washing machine leads to the growth of mold and mildew. If there is any layer of dirt then it can lead to the growth of bacteria as well. If it is kept unclean for a long time then this condition can also trigger an unpleasant odor. You don’t need to worry if you ever find any of these signs with your washing machine.
1. You need to run a wash cycle
Rather a question arises – do top load washers need to be cleaned? Well, yes the first step of cleaning the washing machine is, to begin by running the hot cycle. For this, you have to empty the machine and use the hot wash cycle to remove any detergent particles which are left behind in the machine. During this process, it is recommended to use a liquid detergent.
Perform a service wash on a hot wash (60C or higher) once every month without any laundry or detergent in the machine. This will get rid of the mold and germs in the machine. Use of a specialized washing machine cleaning service is advised every three to six months.
If you have to wash the top-loading washing machine then it is recommended to use a detergent like Surf Excel because it is formulated for the top load washing machine. This detergent powder leaves no residue when it is dissolved in water. It is important to check the pack details to know the right amount of usage and other instructions.
Also, read Things to consider before buying an Air Conditioner, here.
2. Check out the nooks and the crannies
Make sure to clean out your washing machine regularly. You need to pay special attention to the detergent drawers and the seals of the door during the cleaning process. Most of the time people leave the door and the drawers uncleaned which provides reasons to grow bacteria. In the case of drawers, you can directly take them out to wash separately and then give them a good rinse in the sink.
The remaining detergent is kept in the detergent tray. It accumulates and gets sticky with time. It occasionally emits an unpleasant odor as well. The detergent dispenser panel should be removed. Using dishwashing liquid and warm water, clean the detergent and fabric softener trays. Vim Dishwashing Gel is an option. The market has it readily available.
Let the drawers dry and then you can again attach them to the machine.
3. Make sure to add vinegar
Cleaning a top loading washing machine with vinegar is a well-known hack. For the better cleaning purpose of the top load washing machine, it is suggested to use vinegar. Vinegar helps to break stubborn dirt and also allows you to cleanse the surface thoroughly.
For this step, you need to fill the machine drum to around two-thirds of its capacity with water. Now add 1 cup of vinegar to it. Let the solution of vinegar sit in the machine for around 1 or 2 hours. After that, keep the lid of the washing machine open during this process.
4. Now clean the lint filter
Do top loaders have filters to clean? Yes, and it is more crucial to wash the lint filter.
A lint filter is a small mesh filter that is used to catch lint at the time of wash. Lint is defined as the small fibers which usually come out from the surface of clothing at the time of washing. You can also check your washing machine’s manual to know how you can clean the lint fiber from the machine. Before that, it is important to check whether your lint filter is removable or not. If it is removable then you can easily remove it by following the manual instructions.
You can make use of paper towels or your old toothbrush to clean the lint filter. Now you need to soak it in the solution of hot water and liquid detergent for around 1 hour. This will help your lint filter to remove any possible dirt thoroughly. After that, you need to give the lint filter a final rinse with the help of clean water and then attach it to its position.
If your lint filter is not removable then you can rely on professional cleaning services. They will help with the cleaning process.
5. Clean and wipe Up the Machine
How to extend the life of your washing machine? A simple answer to this question is – by keeping it clean and in working condition. Clean and wipe up the machine after use. Using a lint-free cotton rag or a microfiber cloth and a commercial cleaner, clean the exterior of your top load washing machine. To comprehend the proper usage directions, consult the pack. And always check compatibility on a minor part before proceeding. Dust and debris caught on the corners can be removed with an old toothbrush. Correctly clean the interior of the lid and the settings panel.
6. Use the wash cycle process
Now is the time when you need to start the wash cycle. Make sure to set the wash cycle at the highest temperature for a longer period. Then run an empty load. Make sure to use clean water in the wash cycle process. You can also run the wash cycle with the help of baking soda.
Usually, cleaning the top load washing machine with baking soda consisting of mild alkali helps to remove the dirt and grease effectively. After that, run another wash cycle with the help of using 1 cup of baking soda to remove the vinegar residue, and then clean the machine drum.
When you are done with cleaning the machine drum thoroughly then drain the water and wipe up the drum. Let the drum of the machine dry. You can also use a clean cotton cloth to dry the drum area of the machine.
7. Don’t forget the cleaning the drain pipe
Your washing machine’s drain pipe eventually becomes clogged. We advise reading the product instructions before cleaning the drain pipe of your top load washing machine so you know how to do it properly. For this phase, you can also get expert assistance.
Conclusion
Most people do compare which is better top load or front loader washing machine. Both have their advantages and care manuals. But with these tips, one can extend the life of the washing machine. However, if the washing machine is not cleaned for a long time then this may show unfortunate side effects of allowing bacteria and mold to build up in the machine. If you are looking for ways to prevent nasty niffs and black mildew from growing inside then you need to ensure you are cleaning the washing machine itself regularly.
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