The assumption that a washing machine cleans clothes, hence it remains clean itself is a misconception. Deep cleaning regularly of your washer is essential like other home appliances to restore its optimal functioning. When the washer is left unclean for a long time, moulds grow in the crevices, producing a repugnant smell. Moreover, it also interrupts the functioning and causes spare parts to easily wear out.
So, a deep clean front load washer is necessary to keep your laundry tidy. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you DIY clean the front load washer.
When to Clean Your Front Load Washer?
The right time to clean a smelly washing machine front loader is – monthly. It helps prevent mould buildup, smell, and wearing of the parts. It is also easier to manage time and energy for a monthly cleaning. This regular clean front load washer helps refine the functioning of the washer without requiring heavy spending on professional washing machine maintenance.
Equipment Required for Cleaning Front Load Washing Machine. Soft fabric/towel, Baking soda/professional cleaning solution, Soft brush and Water.Step 1 - Clean the Drum in a Normal Cycle
In the first step, empty the washer drum and remove the detergent dispenser. Gently clean the tray, and attachments, and place them back at their place. Now, it's your turn to clean the drum. Load the detergent or washing machine cleaning solution directly through the detergent dispenser. Then, run the front load washer in a normal cycle with hot water. Nowadays, brands are bringing Auto Clean smart features for dedicated cleaning. Examples could be the LG Tub Clean feature and the Whirlpool Clean Washer cycle.
Step 2 – Drain Out Washer Drain & Filter
Unplug your washer and let water drain out from the filer and washer drain. This is one of the best ways to clean the front-load washer. It helps drain and filter completely get rid of collected water that potentially attracts mould or mildew. Moreover, there is a small panel on the lower front of the washing machine, empty its water in a tray or soak it with towels. You can control the flow of water by opening the dial.
Step 3 - Clean the Pump Filter
In the next step, completely remove the cap and inspect the filter and drain. Remove anything that is trapped inside or clogging the functioning. It could be a small zipper, buttons, or accessories dropped from the cloth pocket while doing laundry. These objects later cause a rattling sound in the machine, alerting you to urgently call the professional washing machine service. Now, run the warm water to cleanse the filter and scrub it gently with a soft brush.
Step 4 – Clean the Gasket and Door
The most damaging thing to a washing machine gasket is soap residue. Hence, to clean the front load washer, the gasket and door should always be a priority. This is the breeding ground for mould due to high humidity and warm temperatures. For a thorough cleaning of the gasket and washing machine door, spraying cleaning solution or soap water and gently placing it back in the desired space is necessary. Also, wipe clean with a cloth after cleaning, including the inside of the door. Let it dry thoroughly, to prevent mould buildup in the gasket.
Step 5 – Clean the Detergent Dispenser
Another reason for a smelly washing machine front loader is mould buildup in the crevices of the dispenser. It not only produces a foul smell but also causes blockage. Hence, cleaning the dispenser helps eliminate the odour inside the washer. For a thorough clean, gently remove the washing machine drawer, and separate the other spare parts that can be removed. Soak them in the warm cleaning solution and scrub off the residue, ensuring a deep clean. Now, wipe dry and return them to their designated place. Also, remove the build-up in the drawer cavity and wipe off any powdery deposits.
Step 6 – Wash Off Machine Exterior
Last but not least, to finish off the process, clean the front load washer exterior surface. Wipe the controls and display panel with damp clothes. Make it spotless from the outside as it is the entry point of germs inside the washer. To prevent germs, now the front load washers are coming with germ-kill technology. It provides custom settings to kill the germs in your clothes without going through the deep wash cycle.
Conclusion
To make the washing machine cleaning hassle-free, opt for the latest washer models by LG, Electrolux, Hisense, Samsung, or Siemens. The latest washing machines are equipped with artificial intelligence technology that auto-detects the need to clean the washer. It helps live a convenience lifestyle and saves energy consumed in deep cleaning the washer due to manual DIY methods.