Cleaning A Front Loading Washing Machine

Front load washing machines tend to be reliable and energy efficient, which makes them the washing machine of choice for a variety of homeowners. Unfortunately, repeated uses of front load washing machines can lead to the development of mold around the rim, inside the doorway and within the drum. In addition to the fact that this mold and mildew can rub off on clothing and cause stains, mold can also infuse your clothes with a musty smell. Fortunately, there are many DIY methods for cleaning mold from a front loading washing machine, as well as methods for preventing this problem from reoccurring.

Materials

• 3 cups vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• Scrub brush, sponge and tooth brush
• Spray bottle

Process

1. Mix together the baking soda and water in a bowl.
2. Measure the appropriate amount of vinegar.
3. Pour the vinegar into the drum of the washing machine.
4. Pour the baking soda mixture into the portion of your washing machine where you’re supposed to place the detergent during a normal wash cycle.
5. Adjust the settings to the washing machine so that it’s on the normal load size.
6. Turn the water on the washing machine to “hot.”
7. Close the door to the washing machine and turn it on.
8. Open the door when the load is finished.
9. Use the scrubber to scrub any mold and mildew near the opening of the washing machine. The water, vinegar and baking soda mixture inside the washing machine will have loosened mold deposits, making them easier to clean.
10. Wipe away the mold and mildew using the sponge.
11. Inspect the outer rim of the washing machine for remaining mold and mildew deposits. Pay close attention to the crevices near the door’s gasket and hinges.
12. Load a spray bottle with the remaining vinegar and use it to spray the remaining mold.
13. Use the tooth brush to scrub away the last of the mold.

Tips and Resources

Clean the front loading washing machine on a regular basis, even if you see no evidence of mold or mildew inside the machine. This will prevent the mold from re-occurring.

One of the ways that you can prevent your front loading washer machine from getting moldy is to leave the door open after every use to allow the machine time to dry out. This is only an option if the washing machine is not in the path of traffic and will not present a safety hazard. In some cases, having a front loading washing machine in the way with the door open can create a hazard for anyone walking past.

For more good tips and information about this process, check out the following websites:

• Popsugar.com
• DIYNatural.com

That’s it! If you have a comment or question about cleaning your front loading washing machine, leave it in the comments box below this post. We love to hear from our readers!