Our friends at Jones Services have put together this great guide to keeping your washing machine running it's best!
Cleaning your washing machine might not be at the top of your household to-do list, but it's a vital step in ensuring that your clothes come out pristine and your appliance stays in peak condition. Over time, detergent residue, mold, grime & lime-scale can accumulate, leading to unpleasant odors and reduced cleaning efficiency. In this comprehensive guide, presented by Jones Services, we'll take you through the essential steps to keep your washing machine clean, fresh, and ready to tackle your laundry.
1. Maintain - Drum Deep-Clean
The drum of your washing machine is where the real cleaning magic happens. Regular cleaning ensures it remains free from buildup and unpleasant odors. Here's how to give it a deep-clean:
- Perform this thorough drum cleaning at least once a month to maintain a fresh-smelling and efficient washing machine.
- Start with an empty machine.
- Select the hottest water temperature and the largest load capacity.
- Add two cups of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaning solution to the detergent dispenser.
- Run a complete wash cycle.
- Afterward, wipe down the drum interior, Inner door glass, gasket or bellow seal with a damp cloth to remove any lingering residue.
- Make sure to leave the washing machine door open after the wash to help dry out the interior.
- To prevent mold forming leave the Door ajar at the end of cleaning or normal cycle to aid with drying of seals and drum.
Washing regularly at a temperature of at least 60'C helps kill bacteria. Most machines have a hygiene wash program that washes at high temperatures, which kills bacteria effectively, doing this often will help you maintain good washing machine hygiene.
2. Clean - Dispenser sanitisation
Detergent and fabric softener dispensers can easily accumulate residue and mould. Regularly remove these compartments and give them a good cleaning:
- Don't forget to check your washing machine's user manual for any additional recommendations on cleaning these components.
- Soak the compartments in warm, soapy water.
- Use a small brush or toothbrush to scrub away any stubborn build-up.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly before reassembling.
3. The External Casing
Your washing machine's exterior also deserves attention. Regularly wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dust and splatters. Pay extra care to the control panel, buttons, and any touch screens. Avoid abrasive cleaners or excess moisture that could harm the machine's electronics.
4. Drain Pump Cleanse
A clogged drain pump can be a nightmare, causing drainage issues and potential damage. To keep it clean:
- Firstly check your instruction manual for any specific drain pump cleaning requirements.
- Unplug your washing machine when removing parts for cleaning.
- Locate the drain pump filter, usually near the machine's base.
- Use the drain hose first to drain most of the water out before unscrewing the drain pump filter lid.
- Refer to the user manual to drain residual water from the drain pump filter, position a container underneath to catch any spillage.
- Carefully unscrew the filter and remove debris, lint, or foreign objects.
- Securely reattach the filter.
- Prevent blockages and ensure proper drainage by repeating this process every few months.
5. Maintain Washer Balance
An imbalanced washing machine can create excessive vibrations during the spin cycle, possibly leading to damage. Use a bubble level to confirm your machine is on a level surface. Adjust the machine's feet as necessary to achieve the proper balance.
Taking the time to clean your washing machine is a simple yet effective way to ensure clean, fresh-smelling laundry and prolong the life of your appliance. Neglecting this important task can lead to issues like odor, reduced cleaning efficiency, and even costly repairs.
If you would like to get your washing machine checked or serviced by the experts, Jones Services has a “Appliance Maintenance Multi-check” which they offer to help ensure the longevity of your appliances. Give them a call to enquire today 0800 555 033.
Thanks to Jones Services, you now have the ultimate guide to keep your washing machine spotless and ready to tackle your laundry needs for years to come.
