Diy washing machine makeover: how to use baking soda to restore its original shine

Cleaning your automatic washing machine is essential for its longevity and efficiency. Baking soda is a natural and effective cleaning agent that can help remove dirt, grime, and odors from your machine. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to clean automatic washing machine with baking soda and answer frequently asked questions.

Why Use Baking Soda to Clean Your Washing Machine?

Baking soda is a versatile cleaning agent with several benefits for cleaning washing machines:

• Natural and Affordable: Baking soda is a natural and inexpensive cleaning agent that’s readily available.
• Deodorizing: Its alkaline nature neutralizes odors, leaving your machine smelling fresh.
• Stain Removal: Baking soda can help remove stains from clothing and the washing machine drum.
• Disinfectant: Baking soda has mild disinfectant properties that can kill bacteria and mold.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to effectively clean your automatic washing machine with baking soda:

1. Remove Clothing and Run an Empty Cycle: Remove all clothing from the machine and run an empty cycle on the hottest water setting to flush out any residue.

2. Add Baking Soda: Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the detergent dispenser. Do not add any other cleaning agents.

3. Run Hot Water Cycle: Start a hot water cycle without adding any detergent. The baking soda will dissolve and circulate throughout the machine.

4. Pause Cycle and Let Soak: After about 30 minutes, pause the cycle and let the baking soda solution soak in the machine for several hours or overnight.

5. Resume Cycle and Run to Completion: Resume the hot water cycle and let it run to completion. This will rinse away the baking soda and any loosened dirt or grime.

6. Wipe Down Exterior: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of the washing machine, including the control panel and door.

7. Leave Door Open to Air Dry: Leave the washing machine door open for several hours to allow it to air dry and prevent mold growth.

Additional Tips for Cleaning

• Monthly Maintenance: Clean your washing machine with baking soda monthly to prevent build-up and odors.
• Use White Vinegar: For a deep clean, add 2 cups of white vinegar to the rinse cycle after the baking soda cycle.
• Check Drain Filter: Regularly check and clean the drain filter to prevent clogs and odors.
• Use Bleach Occasionally: If your machine is particularly dirty or has a persistent odor, run a bleach cycle according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Benefits of Cleaning with Baking Soda

• Improved Washing Performance: A clean washing machine will wash clothes more effectively and remove stains better.
• Reduced Odors: Baking soda neutralizes odors, leaving your machine and clothes smelling fresh.
• Extended Lifespan: Regular cleaning with baking soda can help extend the lifespan of your washing machine by preventing build-up and damage.
• Cost-Effective: Baking soda is an inexpensive cleaning agent, making it a cost-effective way to maintain your washing machine.

FAQ

1. Can I use baking soda to clean all types of washing machines?

Yes, baking soda is safe to use on all types of automatic washing machines, including top-load, front-load, and HE models.

2. How often should I clean my washing machine with baking soda?

For monthly maintenance, clean your washing machine with baking soda once a month. For a deeper clean or if you notice odors or build-up, clean it more frequently.

3. Can I add baking soda to the detergent compartment?

No, do not add baking soda to the detergent compartment. It should be added to the detergent dispenser or directly into the drum.

4. Is it safe to use baking soda with other cleaning agents?

Do not mix baking soda with other cleaning agents, such as chlorine bleach or ammonia. This can create harmful fumes.

5. Can I use baking soda to remove mold from my washing machine?

Yes, baking soda can help remove mold. Run a hot water cycle with baking soda and then follow with a white vinegar cycle.