Regular cleaning of your washing machine not only helps maintain its durability but also enhances its washing efficiency. Below is the simplest way to clean a top-loading washing machine.
Quick and Effective Washing Machine Cleaning Tips
The drum of the washing machine is frequently in contact with dirty clothes, bacteria, and dust. Over time, these contaminants accumulate inside the drum, affecting the drainage system and leading to machine malfunctions.
Why should you clean your washing machine regularly?
If you do not regularly clean your washing machine and remove dirt buildup, these residues can fall onto your clothes during washing. This not only decreases washing efficiency but also causes clothes to develop mold and unpleasant odors.
Additionally, regular cleaning of the washing machine offers many benefits, such as:
- Extending the machine’s lifespan.
- Eliminating odors and removing bacteria, residues, and dust from inside the washing machine.
- Ensuring clothes are washed more thoroughly.
- Enhancing the machine’s operational efficiency.
- Protecting the washing machine from degradation and damage.
Properly cleaning a top-loading washing machine will help it function better.
How to clean a top-loading washing machine
Step 1: Prepare tools for disassembling the washing machine
You can use a multi-tool set or gather all necessary repair tools (such as screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, etc.) to perform the disassembly and reassembly of the washing machine.
Step 2: Remove the control panel
First, use a four-pronged screwdriver to remove the securing screws located at the top of the washing machine. Then, proceed to detach the upper water inlet section and the control panel of the washing machine.
Note: Be sure to remove the control panel slowly to avoid damaging the electrical cables.
Next, use the screwdriver again to remove screws and detach the entire top section of the washing machine.
Step 3: Remove the agitator and drum
Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that secure the drum, then proceed to take off the plastic cover that secures the drum.
After that, continue using the screwdriver to remove the screws securing the agitator to the drum, and lift the drum out of the washing machine.
Step 4: Clean the drum
First, remove the lint filter located inside the drum. Then, dissolve soap in water and use a pressure washer and nozzle to clean this component.
Next, spray clean the inside and outside of the drum, followed by cleaning the agitator.
Then, use a soft brush to clean any leftover dust on the drum and agitator. Finally, use a clean dry cloth or air blower to dry the drum components.
Step 5: Reassemble components and wipe clean
Reassemble the parts in reverse order, such as the drum, agitator, plastic cover, and other upper components of the washing machine. Then, use a dry cloth to wipe everything down once more to ensure cleanliness.
Step 6: Finalize and double-check the machine
Check the operational condition of the washing machine before finishing the cleaning process!
How to clean a front-loading washing machine
Step 1: Clean the drum
Add vinegar to the drum and run an empty cycle. This process will help dissolve any leftover soap residues while eliminating odors inside the drum. After that, wipe the drum with a cloth dipped in a cleaning solution.
Step 2: Clean the detergent drawer
The detergent drawer is a potential trap for residues from detergent and fabric softener that have accumulated over time, so it needs thorough cleaning.
Step 3: Clean the machine’s exterior and lid
Use a cloth with a specialized cleaning solution to wipe down the entire exterior of the washing machine.
Make sure to clean the corners and rubber seals thoroughly, as these areas tend to collect a lot of dust and residues.
Don’t forget to clean inside the drum after washing.
Step 4: Clean the drain hose
Clean the drain hose, wiping off any dirt at both ends, and check to see if the hose is kinked. Additionally, inspect the water supply hose to ensure the washing machine operates smoothly. If the hose is old or degraded, consider replacing it.
After completing these steps, you will have fully cleaned your washing machine. It is recommended to perform this cleaning every 2-3 months to keep the machine shining.
Tips for using and cleaning your washing machine
To maintain washing efficiency, you should regularly clean the drum and washing machine 2-3 times a month.
Avoid using bleach to soak clothes in the washing machine.
Avoid leaving clothes in the washing machine for too long after washing, as this can lead to the growth of bacteria, mold, and unpleasant odors on the clothes.
After drying all the clothes, open the washing machine door to allow the drum to dry, preventing mold growth.
Regularly maintain and clean your washing machine.
Above are the correct and simple methods to clean a top-loading washing machine that anyone can do.
