Since your washing machine and dryer are used to clean your clothes and other laundry items, it may not cross your mind that they need cleaning too. Washers and dryers can easily collect dirt and become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria. So, even if these appliances may seem clean, sanitizing them on your own or with the help of a washing machine specialist is crucial.
Besides removing dirt, odors, and germs, cleaning your washing machine and dryer at least once a month helps them run efficiently and prolongs their lifespan. Read on to learn how you can clean and sanitize your laundry appliances.
The Washing Machine
To start, make sure your washing machine is empty and set the water temperature to the hottest setting for the largest load. For the first cycle, you may either use one cup of chlorine bleach or two cups of baking soda, which are both effective in sanitization. Let the washer run a full cycle. For extra cleaning and disinfection, you may run a second full cycle with two to three cups of white vinegar.
Once both cycles are complete, wipe the interior components with a soft sponge or cloth, making sure there is no mold or residue buildup. For front-load washers, dirt can easily get into the door seal, so it’s best to scrub them with a toothbrush using a mixture of chlorine bleach and water. Afterward, run a final rinse cycle and leave the washer open to let it air dry.
Sanitize the exterior parts and surfaces of your washing machine as well. Use an all-purpose cleaner or the same bleach and water solution to wipe everything clean. Then, wipe them dry with a microfiber cloth.
The Dryer
The first thing you should do is to remove any lint buildup from the lint trap, which can be typically located on top of the dryer or inside its door. Then, prepare a disinfectant solution by mixing chlorine bleach and water. Using a cloth or sponge, wipe down the dryer’s interior drum, gaskets, seals, and door.
Afterward, use another cloth to rinse all the surfaces with clean water. To ensure there are no cleaning residues left behind, toss some towels in the dryer and let it run on the highest setting for at least ten minutes. Lastly, wipe down the dryer’s exterior. All dryers are different, so if you want to make sure you’re cleaning yours correctly, you can also schedule an appliance service.
Talk to a Washing Machine Specialist
Learning how to sanitize your washer and dryer at home is a great way to maintain your laundry appliances. If you encounter any issues during the cleaning process or need professional washing machine services, reach out to an expert. For reliable home appliance services in Birmingham, AL, contact us at Appliance Connection today!
