Hey there, DIY enthusiasts! You've dabbled in the world of homemade picture frames, spice racks and even refurbished kitchens. But today, let's embark on a different kind of expedition; one that leads you to arguably the most overlooked appliance in your home - your faithful clothes washer.
Recognize the Usual Suspects at Play
We love the laundry machine for the promise of clean, fresh-smelling clothes. But over time, we often forget that the washer itself needs a thorough cleanse to function optimally. 'Grime', 'buildup', and 'odor' are the troublemakers often guilty of not just ruining your clothes but also affecting the performance of your machine.
Gathering Your Tools
Before we dive in, let's gather our arsenal. Search your homes for the following items:
- Hot Water
- Vinegar
- Baking Soda
- Scrub Brush
- Microfiber cloth
If you don't have these, a quick trip to your nearest supermarket will sort you out right! Let's march onto the battlefield (a.k.a laundry room) for Operation Washer Clean-up!
Step 1: Navigating the Hot Water and Vinegar Cycle
Good ol' hot water and vinegar are legendary cleaner agents for your washer's internal cavity. Fill your washer to its maximum capacity with hot water, add 2 cups of vinegar, and let the magic unfold. Run the machine for a few minutes until the vinegar mixes thoroughly. Now halt the cycle and let it sit for an hour. The hot water and vinegar will work their charm and break the grime and soap scum.
Step 2: Introducing Baking Soda to the Scene
Once an hour has passed, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda in the drum, and recommence the washing cycle. The addition of baking soda further aids in fighting the odors and scrubbing off any remaining buildup. Let the cycle complete and once done, you'll have a much cleaner drum.
Step 3: Scrub-a-dub, the Drum and Seal
Now it's time for some elbow grease. Using a scrub brush, meticulously clean the drum. Move onto the rubber seal as it traps a lot of buildup. Do not rush, ensure you get into all the nooks and crannies because, like in a thriller, we don't want any dirt hiding away!
Step 4: Break Up with the Detergent Drawer
Often overlooked, the detergent drawer is a hotspot for soap scum and remnants of fabric softeners. Remove the drawer (refer to the manufacturer's manual for instructions) and clean the drawer and the cavity using a scrub brush dipped in vinegar.
Step 5: Wipe Down Exteriors
Finally, use a microfiber cloth and a mix of warm water and dish soap to wipe down the exteriors of your washer. Keep the door open for a while to let the machine dry off completely. And voila, a sparkling washer!
A Few More “Don’t Forget” Cornerstones
Now that we're acquainted with the basic washer cleaning ritual, here are some maintenance aspects that can make your washer’s life a bit better:
• Use the right amount of detergent - Excess detergent can leave residue and buildup.• Keep the lid open post wash cycles. It speeds up drying and discourages mildew growth.• Regularly inspect the hoses for leaks and cracks. Replacements aren't frequent, but prevention is better than cure.
Pat on Your Back
Congratulations, DIY enthusiast! You have successfully braved the expedition and are now the proud cleaner of a squeaky clean washing machine. The result of your hard work and dedication will not only lead to cleaner clothes but also extend the life of your trusted clothes washer. Fire up that machine, and bask in the glory of your achievements.
Mastered the washer cleaning prowess? Stay tuned for more exciting, DIY tasks that tap into the nooks and crannies of your house you never gave a second thought to. Until then, happy DIY-ing!