If you're like us, you're always thinking about the things you need to clean next as part of your daily lives; clothes, dishes, floors... but when do we think about taking care of the things that clean for us? Today we’re getting clean-ceptional and sharing our best tips for getting your washing machine back to its sparkly self!
Get a clean washing machine!
Believe it or not, even your washing machine could use a good clean. After a while, residue can build up in the door, around the arms, and even in the detergent tray of your washing machine. Not leaving the door ajar after finishing a load, allowing wet clothes to sit, and overusing detergent can all contribute to the problem (That’s why we recommend using a pre-measured detergent, like our Laundry Detergent Pods!). If you’ve had your washing machine for a while, odds are it needs some TLC.
How do I clean my washing machine?
Read on to learn how to clean your washing machine without using commercial washing machine cleaners or bleach.
How to Clean a Top Loader with Vinegar
- Set your machine to the largest load setting on hot water.
- Once full, add 3 to 4 cups of vinegar
- Allow the machine to agitate for a minute or two to fully disperse the vinegar.
- Add a 1/2 cup of baking soda to the water and allow it to run for a full cycle!
- Deep clean your detergent trays by removing them and scrubbing with a toothbrush (or crevice tool of your choice) and baking soda.
- Clean the outside by wiping the rest of the machine down with a Swedish Dish Cloth soaked with vinegar.
- Run the machine on a hot water cycle one more time and wipe down the inside with another Swedish Dish Cloth. Any residue or buildup will wipe away without resistance!
How to Clean a Front Loader with Vinegar
- Start by getting in those tricky gaskets that hold onto water with a bit of abrasive baking soda, followed by a vinegar spray.
- Once the gaskets are clean, place ⅓ cup of baking soda in the drum and close the door.
- Pour 2 cups of white vinegar in the detergent tray.
- Run on a hot wash cycle.
- Once the cycle is finished, wipe down the inside and outside with a Swedish Dish Cloth, and voila!
- Deep clean your detergent trays by removing them and scrubbing with a toothbrush (or crevice tool of your choice) and baking soda.
How do I Deep Clean my Washing Machine without Vinegar?
So you’re looking to avoid chemicals like bleach, but you’re looking for something a bit stronger than vinegar (or maybe you just don’t like the smell). Finding alternatives to bleach can be tricky, which is why we developed our own chlorine-free bleach alternative: the Oxi Booster Pod. You may already know that this pod is great at tackling stubborn stains and odors in your laundry–but it can help clean your laundry machine as well.
How to Clean a Washing Machine with Oxi Booster Pods
- Remove clothing or other items from the washer.
- Place two Oxi Booster pods into the drum of the washer (do not place them into the dispenser!)
- For washers with a clean washer cycle, select and run the "Clean Washer" cycle.
- For washers without a "Clean Washer" cycle, select and run a normal or heavy cycle with the hot water setting.
It’s as simple as that! Just pop them in and go. In no time, you’ll have a sparkling washer reminiscent of when it was brand new. This method works for both traditional and HE machines, and both top and front loading washers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions about how to get a clean washing machine? We’ve got answers.
Can vinegar damage your washing machine?
Vinegar is safe to use in your washing machine–within reason. Excessive use of vinegar can begin to degrade rubber and damage the seal and hose in your washing machine. Be sure to follow our instructions when washing your washing machine with vinegar to prevent damage, or use Oxi Booster Pods for complete peace of mind.
What is the best thing to clean inside a washing machine?
The best thing to clean inside a washing machine is either white vinegar or Oxi Booster Pods. Both products provide an excellent clean. You can even switch methods each month if you wish, however you should not use the two together as it can cause a chemical reaction!
How often should you clean your washing machine?
We recommend cleaning your washing machine once a month, or after every 30 cycles. Frequent cleaning helps prevent buildup and odors from beginning in the first place–so you can rest assured that your clothes are getting as clean as possible in the wash.