What is the best method for deep cleaning my laundry washing machine?

Living rurally, our washing machine gets quite the workout. I make a habit of wiping out the interior drum (it is top load if that matters) and cleaning the top on a fairly regular basis. Lately, I'm starting to think a more in-depth cleaning of the washer may be in order. What is the best way to give my washing machine a deep clean so that it continues to clean everything else for me? Thank you!

  Topic Around the House/DIY/Gardening Subtopic Cleaning Tags home appliances maintenance laundry sanitizing deep cleaning
3 Years 1 Answer 708 views

Jessica Moore

Knowledge Areas : Farming, Small Town America, Rural Sustainability and Self Sufficiency, High School, College, Grad School, Software & Tools for Educators, Camping, Hiking, General Outdoor Questions, Toddlers, Babies, Education

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Answers ( 1 )

 
  1. J Starr 4425 Accepted Answer

    I usually clean mine by running a basic fast-wash with just strong cleaning vinegar water, wiping down everything I can reach around the top and top edges of the tub, then leaving the lid open.for a couple of hours (although I live in a desert, so stuff dries fast;  if you live where there's humidity, consider 24 to 48 hours open).

    Some folks like to use bleach- same way, I just don't like bleach as much because it is too easy to miss a drop or dribble and then end up with bleach marks.  I don't use bleach in laundry overall unless it is something I want as white as possible because bleach really weakens fabric.   Vinegar- especially cleaning vinegar- is highly acidic, and not much germy that is alive can be doused it in and come out unscathed.

    There are a number of youtube videos demonstrating how it is done;  search "deep-cleaning top loading washer".  Then be prepared to be stultified by some woman trying to make cleaning her washing machine look and sound interestingly important. 

    UTC 2021-07-02 07:53 PM 0 Comments

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