Introduction
If you’re the owner of a front load washer, then you may know that they require regular cleaning to keep them running smoothly and prevent unpleasant odors. A front load washer is a big investment, and it isn’t cheap to replace. Hence, keeping it clean is important for it to run efficiently and last longer. In this article, we have provided you with a step-by-step guide, tips, a video tutorial, product reviews, expert advice and troubleshooting solutions to help you learn the best practices to clean your front load washer.
Step-by-Step Guide
Regularly cleaning your front load washer is important for its longevity and proper functioning. Below is a step-by-step guide to effectively clean your front load washer.
Gather necessary tools and products
Before you start with cleaning, gather all the necessary tools and products you will need such as gloves, rubber gloves, microfiber towels, hot water, baking soda, vinegar, and a washing machine cleaner.
Clean the Rubber Gasket around the door
Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the rubber gasket around the door. Make sure to check for any mold or mildew buildup. If there is any, use a mixture of baking soda and water to make a paste and apply it to the affected areas. Scrub it well with a brush and finally rinse the gasket thoroughly with water.
Clean the Detergent Dispenser Drawer
The detergent dispenser drawer can accumulate detergent buildup over time and may cause an unpleasant odor. Remove the drawer completely and clean it thoroughly using water, soap and a soft brush. You can also soak the dispenser drawer in a mixture of hot water and vinegar to effectively remove any buildup.
Clean the Drum of the Washer
To clean the drum of the washer, pour two cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser drawer and run a hot water cycle. Alternatively, you can use a washing machine cleaner instead of vinegar. Both vinegar and washing machine cleaner effectively eliminate any buildup and bacteria in the drum.
Run a Cleaning Cycle
If your washer has a self-cleaning cycle mode, activate it to deep clean the machine. This cycle mode ensures that any buildup of mold, mildew, or bacteria in the washer is effectively eliminated. If your washer doesn’t feature this functionality, fill the detergent dispenser with the appropriate amount of hot water and add a cup of baking soda. Run the washer on the hottest cycle.
Tips and Advice
- For a more effective clean, consider running at least 2 or 3 cleaning cycles a year or once per season
- Use gloves and check the washer’s manual for additional cleaning information before starting
Video Tutorial
A video tutorial can be particularly helpful to visual learners. To supplement our written guide, here’s a video tutorial that demonstrates the process of cleaning a front load washer. link to video
Common Mistakes or Areas that Need Extra Attention
- Ensure the cleaning products you use are safe for your washer’s materials and finishes
- Always clean the detergent dispenser drawer and rubber gasket to avoid mold and mildew buildup
Quick Tips
Here are a few quick tips and tricks to maintain your front load washer:
- Use high-efficiency detergent for a cleaner wash
- Leave the washer door open between cycles to allow the machine to dry completely
- Remove any clothing or laundry items from the washer after a cycle
- Clean the washer at least once a month
Product Review
There are different cleaning products that are designed specifically for front load washers. Here are a few recommendations:
- Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner – this product uses oxygenated bubbles to clean the washer’s drum and remove odor-causing particles effectively.
- Tide Washing Machine Cleaner – this product also uses oxygenated bubbles to deep clean the washer’s drum and remove the odor-causing residue.
- Washer Fan Breeze – this product can be installed on the front door of the washer. It helps to dry and maintain the tub’s cleanliness by continuously running its fan.
These products are effective and are designed to clean tough stains and odors in the washer. Ensure you read the instructions on how best to use them before use.
Troubleshooting Guide
Despite the best efforts to keep a front load washer clean, problem cases could still arise. Below are some common problems and solutions for them.
Clogged Detergent Dispenser
The detergent dispenser is the most susceptible part of the washing machine. If it is blocked, detergent residues can accumulate in the dispenser, making it difficult for the soap to leave the dispenser. Clean the dispenser with a soft brush and a mixture of hot water and soap.
Mold or Mildew Buildup
The rubber gasket located inside the washer’s door is the perfect location for mildew and molds to grow. It’s important to keep the area dry. After each wash cycle, wipe the area using a clean, dry towel. Cleaning it thoroughly with baking soda and water can also help remove any mold or mildew buildup in the area.
Overuse of Fabric Softener
If you notice a buildup of white residue on your laundry after washing, this could be an indicator of overuse of fabric softener. When too much softener is used, it can cause a buildup in the washer’s drum. To fix the issue, consider reducing the amount of fabric softener used or diluting it with water.
Other Resources for Troubleshooting your washer
If the problem persists, the best option is to contact an appliance repair specialist or the washer’s manufacturer for additional assistance.
Expert Advice
Interviewing an appliance repair expert or an experienced washer technician can provide us with an insider’s perspective on the best practices for cleaning a front load washer. The experts recommend cleaning the front load washer at least once a month to keep it running efficiently and prevent mold and mildew buildup.
Conclusion
Cleaning a front load washer may seem like a chore, but it’s a necessary task to maintain the efficiency and prevent unpleasant odors. Regular cleaning also ensures that the washer remains in good condition for longer. Follow our step-by-step guide, tips and tricks, product recommendations, and expert advice to maintain a clean and efficient front load washer.
