To enjoy your washing machine long enough and keep it in good condition, you need to clean it regularly. Indeed, over time, the residues of used products and the small elements coming from the clothes can clog the device and promote the appearance of bacteria. In the worst case, this can also lead to breakdowns in your washing machine. However, a few good gestures are enough to avoid this. So how do you maintain a washing machine? How to clean the drum? How often should I do it? Discover in this article the answers to all these questions.
Cleaning the Drum: How To Do It?
The drum is the central part of the washing machine. It is the part that will serve as a container for the clothes, and that will rotate to clean and spin them. Therefore, it is essential to maintain this element for the successful cleaning of your clothes regularly.
You should clean it at least once a month, depending on how often you use your washing machine. Washing machine drums are usually made of stainless steel, so avoid using aggressive cleaning products. Use white vinegar, an effective descaler that helps eliminate foul odors. To do this, simply pour a liter of this product into the device and add a handful of baking soda. Then, turn on the washing machine at a temperature of 90° for a few minutes. Let it sit for an hour or more and restart the device by activating the full wash option. If the foul odors persist, clean the inside of the drum with a soft cloth soaked in white vinegar.
Some machine models have a self-cleaning drum option. There is an indicator light on the machine that lights up when necessary to start the self-cleaning program. This ensures that the appliance is clean and prevents the accumulation of dirt. However, you should never put laundry in the machine during the self-cleaning operation. Do not use any cleaning products that could damage the drum.
How To Detect a Drum Failure?
Most washing machine breakdowns are usually due to drum malfunctions. There are several reasons for this. It could be a problem with the belt or the axles. Indeed, if you have the bad habit of overloading your washing machine, it can misalign the drum or damage the belt in the long run. If the belt is simply damaged or loose, there is no need to panic, as you can put the cylinder back in place. To do this, you need to open the back of the machine. Don’t forget to unplug the device and empty it first. The back of the machine is usually fixed with screws. Please choose the appropriate screwdriver and unscrew them one by one. If the belt is still in place, it is damaged. If it has fallen off, you should simply put it back on. However, if you are not a good handyman, it is best to call in someone specializing in this area, such as a plumber.
How To Maintain the Washing Machine?
It is indeed necessary to maintain the washing machine if you want to extend its life and optimize the cleaning of your clothes. This involves the various parts of the device. Start with the laundry drawer. Clean it with a small brush or cloth. If removable, soak it in warm water mixed with white vinegar. Also, wipe the door seals with a cloth to remove any mildew. The washing machine is also equipped with a filter to collect all the detritus from the laundry operations. This element is located at the end of the water drain hose. You have to unscrew it to reach it.
