Cleaning Your Washing Machine

Is cleaning your washing machine important? It certainly is! The inside of your washing machine is constantly being subjected to dirty water, mineral deposits, and detergent deposits. If you launder cloth diapers, it is especially important to keep your machine clean and in tip-top condition. Much like dishwashers, sinks, and bathtubs get dirty even though they are meant to clean things, your washing machine can become a mess in no time. Though most dirt and soil are washed out with the water, dirt, soap residue and other unidentifiable grungy objects can be left behind. Every time you wash your clothes, hard water and detergents cause build up to accumulate inside the tub, pump and hoses. This build-up reduces the ability of your washing machine to perform, and mineral build-up can be abrasive to your cloths and diapers you are washing. This causes them to wear faster. Cleaning your washing machine eliminates these problems.

First, run a cycle of hot water along with two cups of vinegar or lemon juice to loosen up soap and grime. Remove the fabric softener receptacle and soak it in hot water and detergent. Clean the bleach dispenser with a spray cleaner, paper towels, and Q-tips. Don’t forget to clean the top rim of the wash bucket which is up and under where it can’t usually be seen easily. Run the washer empty on a hot cycle one more time.

While this is going on, check all your hoses for leaks. Over time, the water hoses that came with your washing machine may leak or burst. It's a good preventive maintenance practice to check these hoses from time to time for any sign of wear or weakness. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the hoses every 5 years. Make sure your hoses are not a disaster waiting to occur!

Once you’ve soaked the fabric softener receptacle, replace it and polish up the outside of your washing machine with vinegar and a cloth towel. Your washing machine now looks better and will run better as well!

Happy washing!

Need more laundry tips?

Diaper Detergent Chart