If your washing machine works as it should, your clothes will come out clean and fresh every single time.
Your washing machine always gets your clothes clean, so you assume your washing machine is self-cleaning and to an extent it is.
However, there are parts of washing machines that do get dirty, parts not exposed to the water and detergent like the clothes are.
Left alone dirt will build up inside your washing machine, which will eventually give you problems.
Hard water (Essex is a hard water area) doesn’t help matters either.
But don’t worry, washing machines are straightforward to clean and maintain.
Follow this procedure once a month.
The Seal
The dirtiest part of a washing machine is in the rubber door seal. Foreign objects often accumulate within the seal.
First of all, put your fingers inside and go around the seal. Remove any foreign objects you might find, such as coins, hair bands and small kids toys, everyday items left in pockets.
Clean the door seal with a damp cloth.
Incredibly neglected washing machines may require some mould and mildew remover. If this is the case use conservatively and make sure you remove all access cleaner with a damp cloth afterwards. Mould and mildew remover isn’t clothing friendly.
The Drum
Next, clean the drum Pour 500g of soda crystals directly into the Drum and run on a hot wash (60 degrees)
Inspect the Drum after the wash. It’s possible after that first run lots of dirt has been dislodged but remains on the drum.
Repeat the process if this happens, after the second run you’ll find your drum is sparkling clean.
The Filter
Remove and clean the filter.
You’ll find the filter behind a small door at the front of the washing machine.
Unscrew and remove the filter any foreign objects should fall out soon as the filter is removed.
Wipe the filter with a cloth until it’s clean.
Replace, make sure the filter’s screwed-in correctly, so it doesn’t leak.
The Drawer
Remove the detergent drawer and place in the sink with some warm water.
Remove any solidified detergent with a cloth, wipe until its clean.
Dry and replace.
The Exterior
Now the interior is sparkly clean the exterior with a cloth and all-purpose kitchen cleaner.
Finally
You want to prevent mould and mildew from accumulating inside your machine.
Once the washing machine has stopped remove all the wet clothes.
Don’t shut the door entirely; leave it open slightly.
Letting air in eliminates any chance of mould or mildew growing.