Regular maintenance of your washing machine is essential to keep it running smoothly, prolong its life and ensure that your clothes come out clean every time you wash them. A well-maintained machine also helps to avoid unpleasant odours, limescale deposits and costly breakdowns. Here's a practical guide to properly caring for your washing machine and keeping it in top condition.
1. Clean the drum
The drum is the central part of the washing machine, which you place your clothes into. Over time, residues of detergent, limescale and dirt can build up inside. To clean the drum:
Run an empty cycle:
Once a month, run a vacuum wash cycle at high temperature (at least 60°C) using a machine cleaner or white vinegar. This will remove residue deposits and kill bacteria that can cause unpleasant odours.
Wipe the inside of the drum:
After each wash, leave the machine door open to allow the moisture to evaporate and wipe the sides of the drum with a dry cloth to prevent the mould from forming.
2. Maintaining rubber seals
The rubber seals around the washing machine door can collect dirt, detergent residue and mould, which can lead to unpleasant odours. To avoid this:
Clean the seals regularly:
Use a damp cloth with white vinegar or a mixture of hot water and soap to clean the rubber seals. Be sure to wipe down any hidden areas where water may be trapped.
Leave the door open:
After each wash, leave the machine door open to allow air to circulate and to prevent moisture build-up in the joints.
3. Descaling the washing machine
Limescale can build up in the machine, especially if you live in an area with hard water. This build-up can reduce the efficiency of your machine and even cause breakdowns. To descale your machine:
Use white vinegar or a specific descaler:
Every two or three months, run an empty wash cycle with white vinegar or a descaling product. This will remove limescale and maintain the performance of your machine.
Install a water softener:
If you live in an area where the water is very hard, consider installing a water softener to protect your machine and other household appliances.
4. Clean the detergent drawer
The detergent drawer can become clogged over time with residues of liquid or powder detergent. This can lead to unpleasant odours and inefficient detergent distribution during washes. To maintain the drawer:
Remove and clean the drawer:
Take out the detergent drawer and clean it with warm water using a sponge or toothbrush. Rinse well to remove any detergent residue.
Clean the drawer cavity:
Use a damp cloth to clean the cavity where the drawer is located. Detergent residues can also accumulate there.
5. Maintain the washing machine filter
The washing machine filter traps small objects (coins, lint, etc.) that could damage the pump. It is important to clean it regularly to avoid blockages:
Check and clean the filter:
Consult your machine manual to find out where the filter is located. It is usually located at the bottom of the machine, behind a small hatch. Remove it and clean it under running water to remove trapped debris and objects.
Do this every two to three months:
Regularly cleaning the filter will prevent breakdowns and improve the efficiency of your machine.
6. Use detergents correctly
Excessive use of detergent can leave residue in your machine, affecting its operation. To optimise the maintenance of your washing machine:
Respect the dosages:
Use the recommended amount of detergent depending on the hardness of the water and the amount of laundry. Too much detergent will not improve cleaning and may leave residue in the machine.
Choose liquid detergents:
They dissolve more easily and leave less residue than washing powders.
You may also be interested in: DIY: How to create a pleasant ironing area
What you need to know to keep your washing machine immaculate
Regular washing machine care is essential to ensure your machine remains efficient and to extend its life. Preventive maintenance, such as cleaning the drum, seals, detergent drawer and filter, as well as regular descaling, can avoid costly repairs and ensure clean, fresh laundry after every wash.