How to effectively descale your washing machine

Is your washing machine performance not up to scratch? Over time, mineral deposits can accumulate inside your machine, affecting its efficiency and cleaning performance. Descaling your washing machine is an important maintenance task that helps remove these deposits and restores functionality. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a guide on how to effectively descale your washing machine. Say goodbye to dingy clothes and hello to fresh, clean laundry!

The importance of descaling

Descaling your washing machine is important to maintain its performance and efficiency:

Removes mineral deposits

Over time, mineral deposits, primarily caused by hard water, can build up in your washing machine, affecting its efficiency and performance. This build-up can be found on the heating element, water inlet valves and other components.

Improves cleaning performance

Mineral deposits can interfere with the distribution of detergent and water during the wash cycle. This can lead to less effective cleaning results, dingy clothes, and even residue build-up on fabrics. Descaling helps remove these deposit. This in turn allows the detergent to work more effectively, ensuring cleaner clothes.

Prevents clogs and blockages

Mineral deposits can clog the water inlet filters and pipes in your washing machine. This can restrict water flow, reduce water pressure, and even cause blockages. Descaling helps to clear these blockages. This results in smooth water flow and prevents potential issues.

Maintains energy efficiency

A descaled washing machine operates more efficiently. The heating element has to work harder to heat the water when mineral deposits are present, which results in increased energy consumption. By descaling your washing machine, you can improve its energy efficiency, saving you on electricity costs.

Extends appliance lifespan

By removing mineral deposits and preventing clogs, you reduce the strain on the internal components. This can reduce the need for costly repairs or premature replacement.

Signs that your washing machine needs descaling

If you’ve noticed that your washer isn’t performing as well as it used to, it could be a sign that you need to descale your washing machine. Hard water deposits can build up over time and cause blockages or reduce its efficiency. Here are some common signs to look out for:

• Your clothes aren’t coming out as clean as they used to or you may notice residue or mineral spots on them.
• Foul or musty smells coming from your washing machine. This could indicate a build-up of bacteria or mineral deposits.
• There is a reduced water flow during the wash cycle or if it takes longer for the water to fill the drum. This could mean deposits are clogging the water inlet valves or pipes.
• Mineral deposits can affect the smooth operation of moving parts in your washing machine and you may hear unusual noises or excessive vibrations.
• Longer wash cycles as a result of mineral deposits on the heating element.

To descale your washing machine, you will need:

• Descaling solution. We recommend Aktivo Dishwasher/Washer Descaler
• Soft cloth or sponge

Natural solutions can also be effective for descaling your washer. These can include vinegar, baking soda or lemon juice.

How to descale your washing machine:

Step 1:

First, remove all clothes, detergent, and softener from your machine before you start.

Step 2:

Prepare the descaling solution.  Follow the instructions on your descaling product to create the solution.

Step 3:

Pour the solution into your machine’s detergent compartment (front loader) or directly into the drum (top loader)

Step 4:

Set your washing machine to run on the hottest cycle available and let it run on its full cycle. This will help dissolve and flush out any built-up limescale and other residues.

Step 5:

After the descaling cycle is complete, use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior surfaces of the washing machine.

Using natural ingredients for descaling

Tackle the task of descaling your washing machine with natural ingredients. Here’s what you need to know:

Vinegar

White vinegar is an effective cleaner that can tackle everything from mineral build-up to mildew. To use vinegar for washing machine descaling, simply add two cups of vinegar to your washing machine and run it through a cycle on hot water. This will help dissolve any build-up and leave your machine smelling fresh.

Baking soda

Baking soda is another great natural cleaner that can help remove stains and odours from your washing machine. To use baking soda for descaling, mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/4 cup of water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the inside of your washing machine drum and let it sit for about 30 minutes before running a cycle on hot water.

Lemon juice

If you’re dealing with hard water buildup, lemon juice can be a great solution. The acidity of the juice helps dissolve mineral deposits and leaves your machine smelling fresh. Just add two cups of lemon juice to your washing machine and run it through a cycle on hot water.

Additional tips for maintaining your washing machine

Besides descaling, it’s important to clean and inspect your washing machine regularly. This helps it to maintain its functionality and ensure your clothes are being washed effectively.

• Clean the detergent drawer after every wash cycle to prevent buildup of residue and mildew.
• Clean your washing machine lint trap filter every 3 months to improve performance and longevity.  Follow our easy guide here.
• Clean the exterior of your washing machine every month to remove dirt and grime.
• Clean the drum of your washing machine every three months to prevent build-up of soap scum and dirt. You can do this by running a cycle with hot water and a cup of vinegar.
• Inspect your hoses for damage, cracks or leaks yearly and replace every 3-5 years to prevent leaks and water damage.
• Check for loose or worn out parts such as hoses and belts regularly.
• Inspect your door seal for any signs of wear or tear or build up of mould and mildew monthly.
• Use the recommended amount of laundry detergent to avoid residue on your clothes, wastefulness and even damage to the drum. Check out our handy guide on how much laundry detergent do you really need to use.

Descaling your washing machine is an easy job. By descaling your washing machine you can remove mineral deposits, improve cleaning performance and extend the lifespan of your washer. Add this to your list of essential maintenance tasks to ensure optimal appliance performance and fresh and clean laundry!

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