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Introduction:
Over time, even the appliance that cleans your clothes needs a deep clean of its own. Dirt, soap scum, mildew, and limescale can accumulate in your washing machine, causing unpleasant odors and affecting performance. Instead of relying on harsh commercial cleaners, you can use a natural, effective method that restores your washer to peak condition. Just do this one simple thing, and all the grime and gunk will soon be flushed away.
Ingredients:
To clean your washing machine naturally, you’ll need:
2 cups white vinegar
¼ cup baking soda
Optional: 10 drops of essential oil (like tea tree or lemon, for added scent and antimicrobial properties)
A clean cloth or sponge
Preparation:
Empty the washer:
Make sure your washing machine is completely empty before starting.
Add baking soda:
Sprinkle ¼ cup of baking soda directly into the drum of your washing machine.
Add vinegar and essential oil:
Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the detergent drawer or directly into the drum. If you’re using essential oils, mix them with the vinegar first.
Run a hot cycle:
Set the machine to the hottest and longest washing cycle available. Start the wash. The combination of vinegar and baking soda will help dissolve buildup, disinfect the interior, and remove odors.
Wipe down:
Once the cycle is finished, use a cloth or sponge to wipe down the drum, door seal, and detergent drawer. Pay close attention to areas with visible residue or mildew.
Serving and Storage Tips:
While you're not serving this (thankfully!), you can "store" your clean washer by following a few maintenance tips:
Leave the washer door open after each use to allow it to dry out and prevent mold.
Do this cleaning process once a month to maintain a fresh-smelling, efficient machine.
Wipe down the rubber door seal and detergent drawer weekly with a vinegar-dampened cloth.
Variation:
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