How to Clean Washing Machine Drums

Clean your washing machine drum effectively with these methods to maintain hygiene and performance. Simple steps for a fresh and efficient machine.
Explore Washing Machines
3 min
10-July-2024

Keeping your washing machine drum clean is essential for maintaining efficiency and hygiene. For front loaders, use a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda. Run a hot water cycle with the mixture to remove buildup and odours. For top-loading machines, fill the drum with hot water, add vinegar and baking soda, and let it sit for an hour before running a full cycle. If you have an LG washing machine, utilise the tub clean function to ensure thorough cleaning. Regular maintenance prevents residue and keeps your laundry fresh. Discover effective ways to clean your washing machine drum for optimal performance.

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How to clean a washing machine drum

For front loaders

  • Remove debris: Wipe the rubber gasket around the door to remove any debris and detergent residue.
  • Vinegar and baking soda: Pour two cups of white vinegar directly into the drum and add half a cup of baking soda to the detergent dispenser.
  • Run a hot cycle: Set your washing machine to run on the hottest and longest cycle. This helps dissolve and flush out any buildup.
  • Wipe down: Once the cycle is complete, wipe down the inside of the drum and the door with a clean, dry cloth.    

For top loaders

  • Fill with hot water: Set your machine to the highest water level and the hottest temperature setting.
  • Add cleaning agents: Add four cups of white vinegar and one cup of baking soda to the drum.
  • Soak and cycle: Let the mixture soak for an hour, then run a complete wash cycle.
  • Scrub and rinse: After the cycle ends, use a sponge or cloth to scrub the drum's interior. Run a rinse cycle to remove any remaining residue.

Regular maintenance

  • Monthly cleaning: Clean your washing machine drum at least once a month to prevent buildup and odours.
  • Leave the door open: After each wash, leave the door open to allow the drum to dry out completely and prevent mould growth.

Step-by-step guide on how to descale your washing machine

Step 1: Gather supplies

You will need white vinegar or a commercial descaler, a clean cloth, and a sponge. Ensure you have enough descaling agents for your specific washing machine model.

Step 2: Empty the machine

Make sure that your washing machine is empty. Remove any clothes or laundry items from the drum.

Step 3: Add descaling agent

  • Vinegar Method: Pour two cups of white vinegar directly into the drum.
  • Commercial Descaler: Follow the instructions on the descaler package to add the appropriate amount to the drum.

Step 4: Run a hot cycle

Set your washing machine to the hottest water temperature and the longest wash cycle. This helps dissolve and remove limescale buildup effectively.

Step 5: Pause and soak

If possible, pause the cycle halfway through and let the solution soak in the drum for an hour. This enhances the descaling process by allowing the solution to break down limescale deposits.

Step 6: Resume and complete the cycle

After soaking, resume the wash cycle and let it complete. The hot water and descaling agent will flush out the loosened limescale.

Step 7: Wipe down

Once the cycle is finished, open the door and use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe down the drum, door, and rubber gasket. This removes any remaining residue.

Step 8: Run a rinse cycle

To ensure that all descaling agents and limescale residues are removed, run an additional rinse cycle with plain water.

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How to use descaling powder and other detergent types for washing machines

Descaling powder

  • Read the instructions: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions on the descaling powder package for the correct amount to use.
  • Empty the machine: Make sure that your washing machine is empty before adding the descaling powder.
  • Add descaling powder: Pour the recommended amount of descaling powder directly into the drum.
  • Run a hot cycle: Set your machine to the hottest and longest cycle to dissolve and remove limescale buildup.
  • Wipe down: After the cycle, wipe the drum, door, and gasket with a clean cloth to remove any remaining residue.
  • Rinse cycle: Run an additional rinse cycle with plain water to ensure that all descaling powder is flushed out.

Other detergent types

  • Liquid detergent:
    • For front loaders: Use the detergent drawer and follow the manufacturer's dosage recommendations.
    • For top loaders: Pour the liquid detergent directly into the drum before adding clothes.
  • Powder detergent:
    • For front loaders: Use the detergent drawer and ensure it dissolves properly during the cycle.
    • For top loaders: Sprinkle the powder detergent evenly over the clothes in the drum.
  • High efficiency (HE) detergent: Always use HE detergent in HE washing machines to prevent excessive suds and ensure efficient cleaning.
  • Fabric softener: Add fabric softener to the designated compartment in the detergent drawer or directly into the drum using a dispenser ball.

Extra tips on how to clean a washing machine drum

Regular cleaning

  • Monthly maintenance: Clean your washing machine drum at least once a month to prevent residue buildup and odours.
  • Leave the door open: After each wash, leave the door open to allow the drum to dry completely, preventing mould and mildew.

Use of natural cleaners

  • Vinegar and baking soda: Run a hot cycle with two cups of white vinegar and half a cup of baking soda to break down residues and eliminate odours.
  • Lemon juice: Add a cup of lemon juice to a hot water cycle to naturally descale and freshen the drum.

Cleaning the gasket and dispenser

  • Gasket: Wipe down the rubber gasket around the door with a cloth soaked in vinegar to remove detergent residue and prevent mould growth.
  • Detergent drawer: Remove and soak the detergent drawer in warm, soapy water. Scrub it clean before reinstalling.

Professional maintenance

  • Annual servicing: Schedule a professional maintenance check annually to ensure all components of your washing machine are in good working condition.
  • Manufacturer recommendations: Follow any additional cleaning and maintenance tips provided by the washing machine manufacturer.

Updated price list of washing machine drums in India

Model Price (Rs.)
Siemens Washing Machine Drum spider, Silver, Triangle Rs. 3,200
IFB 8 kg High Spin Industrial Washer Extractor Rs. 58,980
LG DD Drum Rs. 4,200


Disclaimer:
The features, availability, and pricing of each model are subject to change and may vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the official website.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to clean a washing machine drum?
The best way to clean a washing machine drum is to run a hot cycle with white vinegar and baking soda. This combination effectively dissolves residues, removes odours, and prevents mould growth, ensuring optimal performance.
How do I deep clean my washing machine?
To deep clean your washing machine, run a hot water cycle with two cups of white vinegar. Pause the cycle and let it soak for an hour, then add half a cup of baking soda and complete the cycle.
Is drum cleaning necessary for a washing machine?
Yes, drum cleaning is necessary to maintain your washing machine's efficiency, prevent the buildup of detergent residue, mould, and mildew, and ensure that your laundry comes out clean and fresh every time.
What happens if I do not clean my washing machine?
If you do not clean your washing machine, detergent residue, mould, and mildew can build up, causing unpleasant odours, inefficient washing, and potential damage to the machine, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
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