Cleaning a washing machine with vinegar: simple tips to do this chore
The washing machine is one of our best allies amongst all the household appliances. It allows us to have clothes that are always clean and ready to use, without the need to washing them by hand and without having to leave the house with stuffed, heavy bags to wash at a laundromat. But who takes care of cleaning this machine itself? It may sound incredible, but one of the must-have products in our pantry can also help us keep our washing machine clean.
We are talking about vinegar: wine, apple or alcohol, this product is very versatile and can be used for household cleaning too. Let's see how it can help us keep our washing machine clean and shiny.
Cleaning the accessories and gaskets
Start by cleaning the removable parts: the dispenser, central filter and lid. You can wash these with a sponge soaked in water and a little detergent, then wiping them down with vinegar to remove all remaining residue.
As for the gaskets, their cleaning must be scrupulous to prevent mold since water tends to stagnate between the folds. Make a thick mixture with baking soda and vinegar and pass it over all the seals with a small brush, clean thoroughly with a damp cloth and dry off. Also remember to dry the gaskets properly after each wash: you can prevent the formation of mold by doing this.
The drum is the part that comes into contact with our clothes and it is therefore essential to always keep it clean and sanitized. Furthermore, due to continuous washing, limescale can easily settle in it. To clean it properly, pour a glass of vinegar directly into the drum and into the detergent drawer. This will eliminate limescale and bad smells emanating from your washing machine. Do an empty wash at high temperature, then let it dry out with the door open, and the result will be wonderful. In the case of very stubborn dirt, you can also add some sodium bicarbonate.
Cleaning the outside
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For optimal and complete cleaning, the external part of the machine must also be taken care of to prevent unwanted stains or yellowing from developing. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a bowl, dip a cloth into it and wipe it all over the outer surface of the washing machine. Leave it on for 10 minutes, then dry off with a clean, dry cloth. Your washing machine will shine like new.
Did these tips help you? How do you clean your washing machine?
