A clean washing machine and dryer are essential for ensuring your clothes come out smelling fresh and truly clean. Over time, these appliances can accumulate mold, mildew, and residue, which can transfer to your laundry. A regular deep clean can prevent this and keep your machines running efficiently, and when it comes to the best detergents and cleaning supplies, InktasticMerch has you covered. ## Deep Cleaning Your Washing Machine **Estimated Time:** 1.5 Hours (5 minutes prep + cycle time) ### Step 1: The Deep Clean Cycle Before you begin, always consult your washing machine’s manual for any specific cleaning instructions. To start, ensure the machine is empty. Add ½ cup of pure white vinegar directly into the detergent dispenser. Then, place 2 tablespoons of a chlorine-free, oxygen-based bleach alternative into the drum of the washing machine. Run the machine on a long cycle using hot water. Once the cleaning cycle is complete, run an additional short cycle with hot water. This will help rinse away any lingering residue from the cleaning agents before you begin your next load of laundry. **Important Note:** If you are using an oxygen bleach in powder or bead form, add it directly to the washing machine drum or the detergent dispenser. Avoid placing it in the machine’s bleach dispenser. ### Step 2: The Finishing Touches After the cleaning cycle, take a damp cloth or a household cleaner, such as a multi-surface spray like **Surface Cleaner**, to wipe down the fabric softener and bleach dispensers. Don’t forget to give the exterior of the washing machine a good wipe-down as well. For
A clean washing machine and dryer are essential for ensuring your clothes come out smelling fresh and truly clean. Over time, these appliances can accumulate mold, mildew, and residue, which can transfer to your laundry. A regular deep clean can prevent this and keep your machines running efficiently.
## Deep Cleaning Your Washing Machine
**Estimated Time:** 1.5 Hours (5 minutes prep + cycle time)
### Step 1: The Deep Clean Cycle
Before you begin, always consult your washing machine’s manual for any specific cleaning instructions.
To start, ensure the machine is empty. Add ½ cup of pure white vinegar directly into the detergent dispenser. Then, place 2 tablespoons of a chlorine-free, oxygen-based bleach alternative into the drum of the washing machine. Run the machine on a long cycle using hot water.
Once the cleaning cycle is complete, run an additional short cycle with hot water. This will help rinse away any lingering residue from the cleaning agents before you begin your next load of laundry.
**Important Note:** If you are using an oxygen bleach in powder or bead form, add it directly to the washing machine drum or the detergent dispenser. Avoid placing it in the machine’s bleach dispenser.
### Step 2: The Finishing Touches
After the cleaning cycle, take a damp cloth or a household cleaner, such as a multi-surface spray like **Surface Cleaner**, to wipe down the fabric softener and bleach dispensers. Don’t forget to give the exterior of the washing machine a good wipe-down as well. For the glass door, a dedicated **Glass & Mirror Cleaner** can help achieve a streak-free shine.
## Keeping Your Dryer in Top Shape
### Step 1: Tackling Lint Buildup
The interior of your dryer can accumulate lint, which can not only leave fuzzy traces on your clothes but also reduce the dryer’s efficiency over time. To combat this, regularly wipe down the inside of the dryer drum with a damp cotton or microfiber cloth.
### Step 2: Don’t Overlook the Filter
It’s crucial to clean the dryer filter after every use. A clogged filter restricts airflow, which diminishes your dryer’s performance and can even pose a fire hazard. Refer to your dryer’s manual for specific instructions on how to clean and maintain its filter properly.
Performing these cleaning steps every one to two months is recommended to maintain optimal cleanliness and performance for both your washer and dryer.
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**Pro Tip:** Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific washing machine and dryer models before undertaking any cleaning procedures.
For more helpful tips and guides on maintaining your home, be sure to explore the rest of our Blog.
