Cleaning your washing machine is an essential step that is often overlooked, but can greatly influence its efficiency and longevity. While we expect our trusty appliance to do our laundry, it also requires a little TLC to stay in tip-top condition. Find out why white vinegar isn’t the best option for cleaning your appliance and which product is best suited to this laundry essential, as reported by an expert from our colleagues at the British newspaper Express .
Home Tip: The Secret to Maintaining Your Washing Machine
To preserve the performance and lifespan of your washing machine, avoid using white vinegar. It turns out that white vinegar is too acidic and can damage the pipes and seals of the machine.
Instead, opt for soda crystals as recommended by this expert . They are recommended by washing machine technicians for effective and safe cleaning. By choosing this product, you will keep your machine in good working order and extend its lifespan, while avoiding potential problems associated with the use of white vinegar. A simple tip that will make a big difference in the maintenance of your appliance! We show you what to do.
Materials
Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need on hand.
Materials
- Soda crystals.
- A beaker or measuring cup.
Step 1: Empty the machine
The first step is to make sure your washing machine is completely empty, with no clothes inside. This will ensure that cleaning the soda crystals is as effective as possible.
Step 2: Measure the soda crystals
Use a beaker or measuring cup to measure out the amount of baking soda crystals needed. Typically, half a cup per cup of baking soda should be enough for effective cleaning.
Step 3: Add the soda crystals
Open the detergent compartment of your washing machine and pour the soda crystals inside. Make sure they are evenly distributed for optimal action.
Step 4: Set the correct wash cycle
Choose a high-temperature wash cycle, preferably 90°C. High heat will help effectively dissolve and remove detergent residue, bacteria and mould.
Step 5: Start the wash cycle
Run the washing machine with baking soda as you normally would for a high-temperature wash. Do not add any clothes at this point, as the main goal is to clean the inside of the machine.
Step 6: Open the washing machine door
Once the cycle is complete, open the door of the washing machine and let the air out for a while. This will allow any residual smell to disappear.
Step 7: Clean the seals and drum
Take the opportunity to wipe down the rubber seals and the inside of the washing machine drum with a damp cloth. This will remove any remaining residue and help keep the appliance clean.
Step 8: Repeat as needed
Depending on how often you use your washing machine, you can repeat this cleaning with soda crystals every two or three months for optimal maintenance.
By following these simple steps and using soda crystals, you will extend the life of your washing machine and prevent the build-up of unwanted residue. An economical household tip that guarantees you a perfectly working appliance. Take care of your washing machine and it will take excellent care of your clothes!
