To clean your washing machine after storage, the recommended method is to run an empty cycle using hot water and distilled white vinegar.
After a period of storage, your washing machine can accumulate dust, potential odors, or dormant bacteria. Running a cleaning cycle before washing clothes is crucial for hygiene and machine maintenance. A simple yet effective method involves using distilled white vinegar, which acts as a natural disinfectant and deodorizer.
Cleaning Steps Using Distilled White Vinegar
Based on effective cleaning practices, here's the straightforward process to clean your washing machine after it has been in storage:
- Prepare the Machine: Ensure the washing machine drum is empty.
- Add Cleaning Agent: Add two cups of distilled white vinegar to the detergent dispenser.
- Select Cycle: Set the machine to run a regular cycle.
- Choose Temperature: Make sure the cycle uses hot water.
- Start Cycle: Start the empty cycle.
Running an empty, regular cycle on hot using two cups of distilled white vinegar instead of detergent is a highly effective way to sanitize your machine. Add the vinegar to the detergent dispenser as you normally would detergent. Don't worry about harming your machine or any future laundry, as white vinegar will not damage clothes or machine components when used in this manner for cleaning. The hot water-vinegar combination is excellent for removing and preventing bacteria growth, ensuring your machine is fresh and ready to use after storage.
Following this simple procedure will help remove any residual mustiness or potential microbial build-up from storage, leaving your washing machine clean and ready for your next load of laundry.
