How Do You Clean A Clothes Washer

So, you've got a clothes washer, huh? Good for you! But hey, have you ever stopped to think, "How do I clean this thing that cleans my clothes?" I mean, it's like having a tiny, water-loving, spin-cycle-dancing employee, right? But even tiny, water-loving, spin-cycle-dancing employees need a break and a good clean now and then.

Why Clean Your Washer?

You might be thinking, "But why? It's just a washer, it's not like it's going to start knitting sweaters in its spare time." Well, let me tell you, my friend, if you don't clean your washer, it'll start smelling like it's been knitting sweaters in a damp, moldy basement. And nobody wants that. Plus, a clean washer means cleaner clothes, and who doesn't want that?

Surprising Fact: Washer Lint is a Thing

Did you know that there's such a thing as washer lint? I know, right? I thought it was just a myth, like the Loch Ness Monster or my mom's famous meatloaf recipe. But no, it's real, and it's gross. It's a mix of fabric softener, detergent, and tiny bits of your clothes that get trapped in your washer. And if you don't clean it out, it'll start to stink up your washer something fierce.

How to Clean Your Washer

Step 1: The Big Empty

First things first, you've got to empty that washer. I mean, you're not going to clean your kitchen sink with a sink full of dirty dishes, are you? So, get those clothes outta there. And while you're at it, give that drum a quick wipe down with a damp cloth. You'll be surprised at how much lint and grime comes off.

Step 2: The Soak

Now, fill your washer with hot water. Not too hot, though, or you'll be dancing the spin-cycle dance yourself. Then, add about a quart of white vinegar to the water. Vinegar is like the superhero of the cleaning world. It's cheap, it's natural, and it'll make your washer smell like a fresh, crisp apple (well, okay, maybe not an apple, but it'll smell nice, okay?).

Let the washer agitate for a bit, then turn it off and let it soak for about an hour. This gives the vinegar time to work its magic and break down all that gunk.

Clean Clothes Washer

Step 3: The Scrub

While your washer is soaking, grab a sponge or a soft brush and give the rubber seal around the door a good scrub. This is where a lot of that nasty mold and mildew likes to hang out. And trust me, you don't want to be hanging out with mold and mildew. They're not the most sociable types.

Step 4: The Rinse

After your washer has had its little vinegar bath, run a rinse cycle. This will help get rid of any remaining vinegar smell. Don't worry, it won't make your clothes smell like a salad the next time you wash them. I promise.

Step 5: The Final Spin

Finally, run a regular wash cycle with just hot water, no detergent. This will help to make sure that any remaining vinegar or grime is completely rinsed away.

Clean Clothes Washer

Bonus Tip: The Detergent Dispenser

While you're at it, don't forget to clean out your detergent dispenser. It's a gross little place where old detergent and fabric softener like to hang out and get all moldy. Gross, right? So, take a cotton swab or an old toothbrush, dip it in some white vinegar, and give that dispenser a good scrub.

And That's It!

And there you have it! Your washer is now clean, fresh, and ready to tackle your next load of laundry. And you, my friend, are now a washer-cleaning expert. Go forth and spread the good word. Just... maybe don't go knocking on your neighbors' doors at midnight to share your newfound knowledge. They might not appreciate it as much as you think they will.

Happy washing!