Effortless ways to extend your washing machine's lifespan
Taking care of your washing machine doesn’t have to involve expensive products. Many home remedies can effectively clean the appliance. If your clothes have an unpleasant smell after washing, take action immediately.
Keeping the washing machine clean is crucial to avoid unpleasant odours that can ruin the freshness of your laundry. Regularly cleaning the detergent drawer and the drum with vinegar can prevent mould and mildew buildup.
Vinegar mixed with a bit of dish soap and water can also be used for another task: thoroughly cleaning the rubber gasket located at the washing machine drum.
How to prevent limescale buildup?
Limescale in the washing machine is unfortunately a very common problem if you live in an area with hard water. It’s better to prevent it than to replace washing machine parts later, so try to clean it regularly.
Citric acid can help remove deposits, and baking soda placed in the detergent compartment will clean hard-to-reach places and eliminate bad odours. You can also throw a few teaspoons of baking soda into the drum, set a high temperature, and run a wash cycle.
For the longevity of your washing machine, it’s crucial to regularly clean the gaskets and the filter (every two months or more often if you have a lot of wool clothes or a pet in the house).
Both the filter and the gasket “collect” a lot of dirt that can affect the efficiency of the washing machine. You can also wipe the gasket with vinegar and water to prevent mould buildup.
Consistency is key
Keep in mind that your washing machine should be cleaned regularly and inspected to maintain its efficiency. After each wash, leave the door slightly open to air out the drum’s interior—this will minimize the accumulation of mould and bacteria.
