It’s frustrating taking clothes out of the washing machine to find them covered in fine lint or caked in soap residue. Here’s a simple way to keep your hard-working washing machine clean and in action.

In most washing machines the soap dispenser is removable. This tray is a common location for mould to grow. To wash the soap dispenser, gently pull it out and place it in the top rack of your dishwasher or wash it by hand using hot, soapy water. If it doesn’t come out easily, check the machine instructions, as it may not be removable. If this is the case, wipe it with hot water and vinegar.

Next, gently clean out the filter. Lint and soap suds often build up here, commonly causing problems for front loader washing machines. When following the manufacturer’s instructions, the filter should jiggle loose easily.

Inspect the inner door and seals of your washing machine for mould. If mould has grown, you can remove it using a cloth dipped in an equal parts mix of hot water and white vinegar. Between washes it’s best to leave the door of your washing machine slightly ajar. This will allow airflow into the machine, giving it a chance to dry and reducing the likelihood of mould growing.

To clean the inside of the machine itself, put half a cup of white vinegar into the drum and two tablespoons of bicarbonate soda into the detergent dispenser drawer. Run a normal hot wash cycle. Check on your machine regularly during this wash, especially if you have not cleaned it in a while as it may cause left over soap to foam up.

How often do you clean your washing machine – if ever? Do you have any tips or tricks you want to share with other readers? Let us know in the comment section below.

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