Sand in your washing machine can be a frustrating problem, but there are several effective ways to remove it.
Here's a breakdown of how to tackle this:
1. Pre-Removal Steps:
- Shake Out Clothes: The first step is to remove as much sand as possible from your clothes before putting them in the washer. Shake them vigorously outside, or brush them off with a broom.
- Rinse Cycle: Run a rinse cycle without any clothes in the washer to help dislodge some of the sand.
2. Methods to Remove Sand:
- Vacuuming: Let the washer dry completely, then use the nozzle attachment of your vacuum cleaner to remove sand from the drum and any crevices.
- Wet Paper Towel: Run a wet paper towel around the rim of the washer to remove excess sand.
- Shake and Flip: Turn the washer over, shake it a few times, and flip it back to its original position to dislodge sand.
- Soaking: For heavily sand-laden clothes, soak them in a bucket of cold water with a small amount of detergent for about 10 minutes.
- Bedding Cycle: After soaking your clothes, run the "Bedding" cycle with the machine to remove any remaining sand.
3. Preventing Future Sand Intrusions:
- Shake Off Clothes: Make it a habit to shake off sand from your clothes before putting them in the washer.
- Clean Regularly: Regularly clean the washer's drum and the lint trap to prevent sand from accumulating.
4. Note: If you suspect sand may have clogged your washing machine's drain hose, consult a professional for assistance.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove sand from your washing machine and prevent future sand-related issues.
