How To Clean The Front Load Washer

So, there I was, standing in my laundry room, staring at my front load washer like it had grown a second head. It was making some weird noises, and my clothes were coming out smelling like a damp, forgotten gym bag. I knew I had to clean it, but where do you even start with these things?

If you're anything like me, you might be wondering, "Why does my washer need a bath?" Well, my friend, it's not because it's been sneaking out to clubs without telling you. Front load washers can get a bit funky over time due to moisture and detergent residue. This can lead to unpleasant odors, mold, and even machine damage. But fear not! I'm here to guide you through this cleaning adventure.

Gather Your Troops

Before you dive in, you'll need to arm yourself with the right weapons. I'm talking about vinegar, baking soda, a toothbrush (for those hard-to-reach places), a sponge or cloth, and some elbow grease. Oh, and don't forget your trusty rubber gloves. You're going to need them.

Let's Get This Party Started

First things first, make sure your washer is empty. No sneaky socks hiding in the corners, please. Then, grab your trusty vinegar and pour two cups into the detergent dispenser. Vinegar is our secret weapon here. It's a natural disinfectant and fabric softener, and it's not going to break the bank.

Now, run a normal cycle with hot water. Let the vinegar do its magic while you put your feet up and enjoy a well-deserved break. While the washer is doing its thing, you can start on the next step.

Scrub-a-Dub-Dub

Once the cycle is finished, it's time to get your hands dirty. Fill the detergent dispenser with warm water and add about a cup of baking soda. Baking soda is another cleaning powerhouse. It's great at neutralizing odors and cutting through grease and grime.

How To Clean A Lg Front Loader Washing Machine at Jack Waller blog

Now, take your sponge or cloth and dip it into the baking soda water. Start scrubbing the rubber seal around the door. This is where a lot of the funk can hide, so don't be shy with your scrubbing. Use your toothbrush to get into any nooks and crannies. If you find any mold, don't panic. Just scrub it away. It's not as scary as it looks, promise.

While you're at it, give the inside of the washer a good wipe down. Pay special attention to the glass where the water collects. If you find any residue, just scrub it off. It's not as tough as it seems, I swear.

Rinse and Repeat

Once you've given the washer a good scrub, it's time to rinse. Run another cycle with hot water, but this time, leave the detergent dispenser empty. This will rinse away any remaining vinegar and baking soda residue.

While the washer is rinsing, you can clean the exterior. Just wipe it down with a damp cloth. No need to go crazy here. We're not trying to turn it into a showroom car.

How to Clean a Front Load Washer: 14 Steps (with Pictures)

Dry Off

After the rinse cycle, leave the washer door open to let it air dry. This is important. Front load washers need to breathe, just like us humans. Keeping the door open allows the washer to dry out completely, preventing mold and mildew from coming back.

And there you have it! Your washer is now sparkling clean and ready to tackle your laundry again. Wasn't so bad, was it?

Preventative Measures

Now that your washer is clean, let's keep it that way. Here are a few tips:

• Leave the door open between washes to let it air out.
• Use high-efficiency detergent to prevent excess suds and residue.
• Run a clean cycle once a month. Most front load washers have a special setting for this.
• Wipe down the rubber seal with a towel after each use to prevent moisture buildup.

And there you have it, folks. Cleaning your front load washer doesn't have to be a scary, mysterious task. With a little elbow grease and some household staples, you can keep your washer running smoothly and smelling fresh. Happy cleaning!