How to Clean Your Washing Machine With Bleach

Don’t’ know how to clean your washing machine with bleach? Then Follow this article and learn about cleaning a washing machine or, how to sanitize a washing machine with bleach?

As we all know, washing machines have become an essential part of our daily lives. They help us keep our clothes clean and fresh, but have you ever thought about how dirty they can get?

Over time, bacteria, mold, and mildew can build up in the drum and other components of your washing machine. This can not only lead to unpleasant odors but also pose a health risk to you and your family. To avoid this, it’s essential to sanitize your washing machine regularly.

How to Clean Your Washing Machine With Bleach:

It’s recommended to sanitize your washing machine at least once a month to maintain its cleanliness and prevent any health risks. So, next time you do your laundry, don’t forget to sanitize your washing machine.

Supplies Needed:

• Chlorine bleach (eg: Clorox^® Germicidal Bleach)
• Dish soap
• A microfiber cloth or sponge
• A soft-bristled brush, or old toothbrush
• Clean water

1. Set The Washer Water Temperature

• The first step in sanitizing your washing machine with chlorine bleach is to set the water temperature.
• Hot water is the most effective in killing bacteria and germs. Set the water temperature to the highest possible setting that your machine can handle, preferably above 140°F or 60°C.
• If your machine doesn’t have a temperature control, you can skip this step.

2. Add Chlorine Bleach

• The next step is to add chlorine bleach to the water. Chlorine bleach is a powerful disinfectant that can kill bacteria, viruses, and other germs.
• Add one cup of chlorine bleach to the detergent dispenser or directly into the drum.
• Be careful not to spill the bleach on your clothes or skin, as it can cause discoloration or irritation.
• Also, make sure to use regular chlorine bleach and not color-safe bleach or bleach alternatives.

3. Set The Washer Cycle

• After adding the chlorine bleach, set the washing machine cycle to the longest and hottest setting.
• This will allow the bleach to circulate throughout the machine and kill any bacteria or germs present.
• Let the machine run through the entire cycle, including the rinse cycle.
• Do not add any clothes or detergent to the cycle.

4. Scrub The Interior Components

• While the machine is running, you can scrub the interior components of the washing machine to remove any mold or mildew buildup.
• Use a soft-bristled brush and a mixture of warm water and dish soap to scrub the drum, agitator, and other components.
• Pay special attention to the corners and crevices where bacteria can accumulate.
• Wipe down the rubber gasket and door seal with a clean cloth.
• Rinse thoroughly with water to remove any soap residue.

5. Do A Final Rinse

• After the cycle is complete, do a final rinse to remove any remaining bleach or soap residue.
• Set the machine to the rinse cycle and let it run through a full cycle.
• This will ensure that there is no leftover bleach or soap in the machine.

6. Clean The Exterior Of The Washer

• Finally, clean the exterior of the washing machine.
• Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the control panel, knobs, and other surfaces.
• You can also use a mixture of warm water and vinegar to remove any stubborn stains or buildup.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers, as they can damage the finish of the machine.

How To Sanitize A Washer Without Chlorine Bleach:

Most people opt for chlorine bleach as their go-to disinfectant. However, if you prefer to avoid using harsh chemicals, there are alternative methods for sanitizing your washer effectively. In this section, we will explore how to sanitize a washer without chlorine bleach.

1. Using Vinegar and Baking Soda

If you’re looking for a natural and non-toxic way to disinfect your washing machine, using a combination of vinegar and baking soda can be highly effective.

Follow these simple steps to sanitize your washer without chlorine bleach:

1. Start by running a hot water cycle with the washing machine empty. This will help to loosen any built-up grime and residue.
2. Once the hot water cycle is complete, pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser and run another hot water cycle. The vinegar will help to disinfect and deodorize the interior of the washing machine.
3. After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda directly into the drum of the washing machine. Run a final hot water cycle to help remove any remaining odors and residue.

2. Using Hydrogen Peroxide

Another effective alternative to chlorine bleach is using hydrogen peroxide to sanitize your washing machine.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Add 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide to the empty washing machine drum.
2. Run a hot water cycle to allow the hydrogen peroxide to disinfect and sanitize the interior of the washer.
3. Once the cycle is complete, wipe down the interior of the washing machine with a clean cloth to remove any remaining hydrogen peroxide residue.

3. Using Essential Oils

If you prefer a natural fragrance while disinfecting your washing machine, using essential oils can be a great option.

Here’s how to sanitize your washer using essential oils:

1. Add 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil, such as tea tree or lavender, to the detergent dispenser or directly into the washing machine drum.
2. Run a hot water cycle to distribute the essential oils and disinfect the interior of the washer.
3. After the cycle is complete, wipe down the interior of the washing machine with a clean cloth to remove any residue and leave a fresh, natural scent.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What Are The Common Signs Of A Dirty Washing Machine?

A dirty washing machine may emit unpleasant odors, leave residue on clothes, or have visible mold growth.

How Do I Disinfect My Washing Machine Naturally?

To disinfect your washing machine naturally, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of water and pour it into the detergent dispenser. Then add 2 cups of white vinegar to the drum and run a hot water cycle.

After that, wipe down the drum and door seal with a clean cloth.

How Do I Stop My Washing Machine From Smelling Like A Sewer?

To prevent your washing machine from smelling like a sewer, clean the machine regularly. Use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to eliminate odors. Run a hot water cycle with bleach once a month. Leave the machine’s door open after each use to allow it to dry.

Conclusion:

So, we believe that people who find it tricky and difficult and don’t know ‘how to clean your washing machine with bleach?‘ or ‘how to disinfect a washing machine with bleach?’ is no more a bigger problem.

In fact, it was never been that hard if people have already followed a similar process like that. And now this article has cleared all the probable and necessary questions of the DIYers.