How To Clean Washing Machine Drum?

Why Cleaning the Washing Machine Drum is Important

• Maintains Performance: A clean drum of the washing machine keeps your appliance as good as new. It helps through better water circulation and effective cleaning cycles.

   

• Eliminates Odours: Soap residue and moisture buildup can leave the drum smelling musty.

   

• Stops Mould and Bacteria Growth: A warm, damp drum can be an ideal breeding spot for bacteria to contaminate your clothes.

   

• Protects your Clothes: Residue, mould, and dirt can transfer back to the fabrics, leaving them stained and dull.

   

• Improves Machine Lifespan: Regular cleaning helps protect the internal components of the machine from damage, making it more durable.

   

Signs Your Washing Machine Drum Needs Cleaning

Watch out for these unmistakable signs that your washing machine drum needs a clean-up:

• Weird Smells: Musty or sour odours from the drum or “washed” clothes carrying a funky odour.

   

• Visible Buildup: Soap residue, lint, black spots, or a slimy coating around the drum, doo,r or detergent dispenser 

   

• Strange Sounds: Debris on the drum causes unusual squeaking or grinding noises when it moves

   

• Unclean Clothes: Clothes do not come out as clean or look dingy or sticky even after a complete wash cycle

   

• Unclear Water: Cloudy or foamy water during running cycles shows accumulated residue

   

How to Clean Washing Machine Drum with Vinegar and Baking Soda

A natural way to clean a washing machine is by using vinegar and baking soda:

1. Empty the Drum: Make sure it has no clothes.

    

1. Baking Soda: Pour ½ cup into the drum 

    

1. Run a Hot Water Cycle: Use the longest water setting

    

1. White Vinegar: Pour 2 cups into the drum and run a second hot water cycle.

    

1. Wipe Surfaces: Use a soft cloth to wipe the drum, door seal, and detergent compartments. 

How to Clean Washing Machine Drum with Commercial Cleaners

Here are the washing machine cleaning tips while using commercial cleaners:

1. Choose the Right Cleaner: Use a product made specifically for washing machines.

    

1. Read Printed Instructions: Check the cleaner directions on the label.

    

1. Add the Cleaner: Place it in the drum or the detergent dispenser as directed.

    

1. Run a Hot Water Cycle: Hot water activates the cleaner and removes buildup.

    

1. Wipe: Clean the drum and seal surfaces with a damp cloth. 

    

How to Clean the Washing Machine Drum in a Front-Load Washing Machine

Complete your front-load washing machine maintenance using the following steps:

1. Empty the Drum: remove all clothes

    

1. Focus on the Door Seal: The rubber gasket traps moisture and grime, so wipe it well with a vinegar solution.

    

1. Clean the Detergent Dispenser: Scrub away the soap build-up.

    

1. Add Vinegar or Cleaner: Pour it into the detergent tray or the drum.

    

1. Run a Hot Water Cycle: Hot water removes residue and germs.

    

1. Open to Dry: Leave the door open to circulate air and dry the drum.

How to Clean a Washing Machine Drum in a Top-Load Washing Machine

Steps on how to clean a top-load washing machine drum:

1. Fill the empty drum with hot water.

    

1. Add Your Cleaner: Use white vinegar or a commercial cleaner.

    

1. Soaking Time: Run the cycle for a few minutes, then pause for 30 minutes to let the cleaner soak in.

    

1. Add Baking Soda: Use ½ cup and restart to complete the cycle.

    

1. Wipe Clean: Remove the grime with a cloth.

    

Tips to Keep the Washing Machine Drum Clean for Longer

Here are a few drum descaling tips:

1. Leave the door open to allow air circulation, dry and prevent odours. 

    

1. Right Detergent Amount: Excess soap builds up.

    

1. Wipe the drum regularly.

    

1. Remove wet clothes quickly to prevent bacteria buildup.

    

1. Monthly cleaning of the gasket and tray.

    

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Cleaning the Washing Machine Drum

• Using vinegar or a cleaner in excess damages the machine.

   

• Scrubbing the drum with harsh tools

   

• Over-soaking the rubber door seals (builds moisture)

   

• Closing the door immediately after washing (dampness breeds bacteria)

   

Conclusion

A simple, monthly machine cleaning routine goes a long way. The result? Better cleaning performance and a longer-lasting washer save you time and money.