As part of your spring cleaning, don’t forget to clean your washing machine!
This will not only ensure that your washed clothes are spotless, but will also eliminate that unpleasant smell in the bathroom that you don’t know where it comes from. One of the most important things is not to just try and treat the symptoms by using more conditioner than necessary. That will only solve the problem for a few washes at most.
We’ve put together 7 steps to get your washing machine running like new
- First, remove the detergent dispenser drawer, then soak it in hot, soapy water. Then use an old toothbrush to remove soap build-up and any mould. For cleaning, you can use the 10-piece BONUS dishwashing sponge, which is perfect for glasses and similar tight spaces due to its small size. Bonus Tip: You might also want to look inside the detergent drawer’s place, as mould stains can easily appear there too!
- Using a damp microfibre cloth and a small sponge, thoroughly wipe the corners inside the machine and the plastic seal around the door. Make sure that you also wipe out the crevices in the seal. You may need to use a pair of tweezers to pick out a few hairs or lint. Wipe off any build-up on the inside of the drum.
- Dirt, lint and hair build up in the pump filter over time. Remove the filter as described in the instructions and clean it under running water. Removing the filter may cause 1-2 glasses of water to spill, but don’t worry – this is normal.
Pro tip: Have a good absorbent mop or cloth within reach to wipe up if you need to. - To remove scale, bacteria and unpleasant odours, use 1 litre of 20% vinegar. Fill the detergent dispenser and conditioner dispenser with vinegar. If prewash is also selected, fill the prewash detergent tank to the max mark. Pour the rest into the drum. Make sure to start a wash at least at 60°C, but if you can, go for 90°C.
- When the wash is finished, sprinkle about 15-20 dkg of baking soda into the drum. Replace the detergent dispenser for powder detergents, then fill the dispenser halfway with baking soda. Run the high temperature wash cycle again, this time without pre-washing.
- Once this is done, wipe the outside of the machine with a damp microfibre cloth and then a dry cloth. Take particular care to unplug it when wiping, as the touch panel can be activated by the damp cloth!
- Leave the washing machine with the door open at least overnight to air out. Don’t forget to clean the filter again!
Pro tip: It’s a good idea to do the above every few months so that your clothes always come back fresh and clean!
