Keeping your top load washing machine clean is essential for its performance and to prevent odors. A simple way to clean it involves using vinegar and dish soap for removable parts, and running cleaning cycles.
Why Clean Your Washing Machine?
Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, minerals from water, and lint can build up inside your washing machine. This buildup can lead to:
- Unpleasant odors
- Ineffective cleaning of clothes
- Potential damage to machine components
Regular cleaning helps ensure your clothes come out fresh and clean every time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Top Load Washer
Here's a breakdown of how to clean your top load washing machine effectively:
1. Prepare the Machine
- Ensure the machine is empty of clothes.
- Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet for safety before cleaning any exterior or interior parts manually.
2. Soak Removable Parts
As shown in cleaning tutorials, you can take out removable parts like detergent or fabric softener dispensers. Soak them in the sink with about a cup of white vinegar and a little bit of dish soap. This helps break down stubborn residue. Let them soak while you proceed with cleaning other areas.
3. Clean the Drum Interior
The washing drum can harbor residue and mildew.
- Vinegar Method: Pour about 4 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum. Close the lid and run a regular wash cycle on the hottest water setting available. Vinegar helps disinfect and remove mineral buildup and odors.
- Bleach Method: Alternatively, if your manufacturer recommends it and you don't have colored residue issues that bleach might set, add ½ cup of bleach to the bleach dispenser (or directly into the drum if there's no dispenser). Run a regular wash cycle on the hottest water setting.
Important: Never mix vinegar and bleach, as this creates toxic chlorine gas. Choose one method per cleaning cycle.
4. Tackle the Lid, Exterior, and Control Panel
While your removable parts are soaking and potentially a cleaning cycle is running, you can detail clean the rest of the machine.
- Use a damp cloth and mild all-purpose cleaner or a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Wipe down the lid, including the underside. Pay attention to hinges and crevices where grime can accumulate.
- Clean the exterior panels and the control panel. Be careful not to spray water directly onto the electronic controls.
- Don't forget the top rim of the drum opening; this area can get quite dirty.
5. Clean the Agitator (if applicable)
For machines with an agitator, wipe it down thoroughly with your cleaning solution. Clean around its base.
6. Clean Dispenser Areas (after soaking)
Retrieve the parts you had soaking in the white vinegar and dish soap solution. Scrub them with a brush or sponge to remove any loosened grime. Rinse them thoroughly and place them back into the machine. Wipe down the cavities where the dispensers sit.
7. Run a Rinse Cycle
After completing the main cleaning cycle (vinegar or bleach) and replacing soaked parts, run a short rinse or clean cycle with just water. This helps flush away any remaining cleaner or loosened debris.
8. Wipe Down and Air Out
Once the cleaning is complete, wipe the drum dry with a clean cloth. Leave the lid open for several hours or overnight to allow the interior to air out and prevent mildew growth.
Recommended Cleaning Frequency
Cleaning frequency depends on usage and water type, but generally:
- Monthly: Perform a full cleaning cycle using vinegar or bleach.
- Weekly/Bi-weekly: Wipe down the lid, exterior, and drum rim. Leave the lid open after each use.
Following these steps, including soaking removable parts in vinegar and dish soap, will help keep your top load washing machine fresh and functioning efficiently.
