If you want your washer and dryer to last for a long time, it’s essential to clean them regularly. Many people don’t know how to properly clean these appliances to get the best performance from them and extend their lifespans. Also, if you have a front-loading washer, it’s important to clean the door seal and detergent dispenser regularly to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Here, we explain how to clean your washer and dryer with common items that you’re likely to have around the house.
Table of Contents
- 1. Use Hot Soapy Water
- 2. Use Bleach and Water
- 3. Use a Mild Cleaning Solution
- 4. Use a Dryer Cleaning Brush
- 5. Vacuum Cleaner With a Nozzle Attachment
- 6. Wipe Down With a Damp Cloth
- 7. Use a Soft Bristle Brush
- 8. Use Powdered Borax and Washing Soda
- 9. Clean the Dryer Exhaust Free From Lint
- 10. Use Baking Soda
- Takeaway
1. Use Hot Soapy Water
To clean your washer, fill it with hot soapy water, and let it run for a few minutes. Hot soapy water has properties that can break down and remove any dirt or grime on your washer. If you have a front-loading washer, clean the door seal and detergent dispenser with a toothbrush dipped in hot soapy water.
In some cases, you may need to use a stronger cleaning solution to remove tough stains or buildup. For example, if you have a lot of lint buildup, you can use a lint brush to remove it. If you have hard water deposits, you can use a vinegar solution to help dissolve them.
2. Use Bleach and Water
Cleaning your dryer is a little different than cleaning your washer. First, you’ll want to unplug the dryer and remove the lint screen. Be sure to clean the lint screen with hot soapy water and a brush.
Next, mix a solution of bleach and water. Use about a cup of bleach for every gallon of water. Once you’ve mixed the solution, use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the inside of the dryer. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, as this is where dirt and grime can build up.
3. Use a Mild Cleaning Solution
A mild cleaning solution can be used to clean both your washer and dryer. To make one, mix equal parts of water and white vinegar.
A mild cleaning solution can be used to clean both your washer and dryer. To make one, mix equal parts of water and white vinegar. You can use this solution to clean the inside and outside of your appliances. Also, if you have a front-loading washer, be sure to clean the door seal and detergent dispenser with this solution.
4. Use a Dryer Cleaning Brush
A dryer cleaning brush is a tool you can use to clean the lint trap and dryer vent. The brush has long bristles that can penetrate the lint trap and remove any buildup.ate the lint trap and remove any buildup.
To use the brush, simply insert it into the lint trap and twist it around. Be sure to do this slowly and carefully so that you don’t damage the lint trap. Once you’ve removed the brush, vacuum up any lint that has been dislodged. Lastly, use the brush to clean the dryer vent. If you’re looking for a way to deep clean your dryer, this is a good option.
5. Vacuum Cleaner With a Nozzle Attachment
Vacuum cleaners are another tool that can be used to clean your washer and dryer. To use a vacuum cleaner, attach the nozzle attachment and insert it into the cracks and crevices of your appliances.
This is an effective way to remove dust and dirt that has built up over time. In addition, it’s an excellent way to clean any hard-to-reach areas. In some cases, you may need to use a brush attachment to help loosen dirt or grime.
6. Wipe Down With a Damp Cloth
This is another way to clean your washer and dryer. Simply wipe down the outside of your appliances with a damp cloth.
This will remove any dirt or grime that has built up on the surface. Using cleaning wipes is another option. These wipes are soaked in a cleaning solution and can be used to clean the outside of your appliances.
7. Use a Soft Bristle Brush
A soft bristle brush is a good tool for cleaning the inside of your dryer. To use a soft bristle brush, insert it into the dryer and twist it around. This will help loosen any dirt or grime that has built up on the inside of the dryer. In addition, it’s an excellent way to access hard-to-reach areas.
8. Use Powdered Borax and Washing Soda
Powdered borax and washing soda can be used to clean the inside of your washer. Just add half a cup of powdered borax and half a cup of washing soda into your top-load washer. Got a front-load washer? You’ll just need two tablespoons of each instead. Once you’ve added the powders, set your washer to the largest load setting, as well as the highest temperature setting it has. If there is a self-cleaning setting, you can run that instead. If you’re looking for a way to deep clean your washer, this is a good option.
9. Clean the Dryer Exhaust Free From Lint
To clean the exhaust, simply disconnect the dryer from the power source and remove the exhaust hose. Next, use a power drill (for faster cleaning) with a dryer brush attachment and clean the entire exhaust pipe. Reconnect the hose and turn on the dryer to test it.
The dryer exhaust can become clogged with lint over time. This can lead to a fire hazard, so it’s essential to clean the exhaust regularly.
10. Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is useful to clean both your washer and dryer. To make a cleaning solution, mix equal parts of water and baking soda. Once you’ve mixed the solution, use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the outside of your appliances.
This will remove any dirt or grime built on the surface. In addition, baking soda is a natural disinfectant and will kill any bacteria present. Therefore, if you’re looking for a way to deep clean your washer and dryer, this is a good option.
Takeaway
There are many ways to clean your washer and dryer. These are just a handful of the most popular methods. Whichever method you choose, follow the instructions carefully. In addition, be sure to read the manual for your particular washer and dryer model. This will ensure that you’re using the correct cleaning method for your appliances.