It’s true that your washing machine is responsible for cleaning loads of laundry every week, and it’s logical to believe that it must be able to clean itself. But the fact is that your washing machine, especially the drum, does need regular care and cleaning. Residue from laundry detergent, dirt, and even bits of laundry start to pile up. This can reduce the efficiency of the machine, which raises your energy bills and shortens the working life of your washing machine. Here are some ways to make sure its drum stays clean and well cared for.
Use the Drum Cleaning Feature
Like modern ovens, some modern washing machines actually do come with a self-cleaning or drum-cleaning feature, but this feature isn’t automatic. Make sure to read your owner’s manual to operate the drum cleaning feature the right way. If your appliances were secondhand and you have no access to the manual, chat with an appliance repair specialist.
Run the Machine When It’s Empty
Another way to keep your washing machine clean is to run it when it’s empty. Simply add detergent, choose the “hot” cycle, turn on the machine, and let it run through a full cycle. After that, open the door and use a rag to wipe away the remaining water and any gunk that you find. After this, you’ll leave the door open until the drum is completely dry. You can do this for both top- and front-loading machines, but the advantage of a top-loading machine is that you can allow hot, sudsy water to sit in the top loading machine for about 30 minutes before running a cycle.
Depending on the make and model of your machine, you may want to run an empty hot cycle every month or so. Again, you should consult your owner’s manual or chat with an appliance repair technician.
Some Tips for Caring for Your Washing Machine After Every Load
There are also things that you can do to take care of the drum after every load. For instance, don’t leave laundry in the machine for longer than overnight. The dampness and warmth foster the growth of mold and bacteria.
Like nearly every other system in your home, your washing machine has a filter, and that filter is crucial for its proper operation. Professionals recommend that the filter be cleaned at least once a season. Wipe away leftover detergent from the detergent drawer, as old detergent attracts mold.
Make sure your machine isn’t overloaded when you do the laundry. Dirty clothes will simply not be washed, and worse, they’ll transfer their dirt to your washing machine drum.
The modern washing machine is probably one of the most labor-saving appliances ever invented. To make sure yours works throughout its 10- to 15-year lifespan, you’ll need to make sure it’s clean and well-maintained. In addition to your efforts, you should schedule a yearly inspection, as a technician can clean components more thoroughly and spot problems that you can’t. For more information on maintaining your washer and dryer and to schedule a professional inspection, call our professionals at CD Appliance Repair in St. Augustine, Florida.
