Spring cleaning tips for your washing machine & dryer

A new season can inspire us to get cleaning! Ready to tackle those tasks that you have been putting off for a while? These easy spring-cleaning tips will help you get your washing machine and dryer sparkling clean in no time!

Let’s start with the washing machine

A thorough, regular clean of your washing machine will remove odours, built up reside, soap scum and mould.  Cleaning and maintaining your washing machine can increase the lifespan of your machine and ensure it is working at its best.

Clean with Vinegar & Baking Powder

These natural powerhouses can sanitise and deep clean your machine. To get your washing machine squeaky clean, you will need:

• Vinegar
• Baking Soda
• Dishwashing detergent
• Soft cleaning cloth
• Sponge
• Old toothbrush

1. Put your machine through a vinegar & bicarb soda cycle

For top load washing machine, set your machine at its hottest and longest setting. When it has filled up with water, add 2 cups vinegar and 1/2 cup baking soda. Let it run for a complete cycle.

For front load washing machine, add 2 tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda into the detergent drawer and ½ cup white vinegar into the drum. Let it run for a complete cycle on the hottest setting.

2. Clean the exterior

Clean the outside of the machine using a soft, damp cleaning cloth. You can dilute a mixture of water with vinegar for this job. Alternatively, you can use an all-purpose cleaner. We recommend Aktivo All Purpose cleaner –  an eco-friendly cleaner that is tough, with a gentle and non-toxic formula. Tackle hard to reach areas with an old toothbrush and a good scrub.  If your dispenser trays are removable, give them a good soak in hot soapy water before wiping clean.

3. Check your seal

Wipe down the drum, door and gasket. Give the seals a thorough clean with a toothbrush or soft bristled sponge. Water, dirt, and grime can get trapped in the seal’s folds, leaving a musty smell or cause mould or mildew to grow.  Check the seals for any damage, splits or cracks. You can easily replace your damaged washing machine seal. Find the right washing machine seal for your model here.

4. Clean your lint filter

If your washer has a removable lint filter/trap, you can give this a good clean.

Safety first! Start by disconnecting the power from your washer

For front loaders you will generally find a small access door at the front of your machine. Get a small towel and place under the door.  Turn your filter counter-clockwise to remove it. Let all the water drain into a small bowl. Rinse your filter under hot water to thoroughly clean. You can also use a small brush or toothbrush to remove any particles. Reinstall the filter and lock into place before closing your access door.

For a top loader, you may need to refer to your manual to locate the lint trap. Generally this can be found along the top rim of the washer drum or inside the centre agitator. Once removed, clean with hot soapy water and scrub with small brush/toothbrush before reinstalling.

Washing machine tip! Clean your washing machine filter every 3 months for better drainage and reduced lint deposits on your clothes

5. Descale your washing machine

From time to time limescale can start to build up, particularly if you have hard water. Limescale can reduce the efficiency of your washing machine. To descale your machine use Aktivo Dishwasher + Washing Machine Descaler – just add to your machine as per the instructions. This will help remove unwanted odours and thoroughly cleanse your washing machine.

Maintain your washing machine with these handy tips:

• Inspect the hoses regularly – make sure the fittings are tight and that there are no cracks, leaks or fraying. Replace your faulty washing machine hose if any problems found
• Empty clothes pockets before placing in your washer – Coins and small items can cause surface damage to the drum, or worse can get stuck within the drain pump
• Don’t overload it – oversize loads can put too much pressure on your machine
• Use the right amount of detergent for your machine – excessive detergent can leave stains and residue on your clothes. It can also cling to the walls of your machine and lead to odours and dull clothes
• Leave the door slightly ajar between loads to thoroughly dry and eliminate smells. For front loaders, wipe down the rubber seal around the door after your last wash
• Remove clean clothes from your washer as soon as your cycle is complete – this will avoid build up of mould and mildew

Lint filters that are worn or damaged, may need to be replaced. You can find new replacement filters at Statewide Appliance Spares. We stock an extensive range for the most popular brands and models.

Don’t forget your clothes dryer!

Your clothes dryer has likely had a good workout over the winter months. With the onset of Spring and sunny, warm weather, it is the perfect time to give your clothes dryer a thorough clean.

Safety first! Disconnect the power from your dryer before you start

1. Clean the exterior

Clean the exterior of your dryer with a soft damp cloth. You can use Aktivo All Purpose Cleaner to remove dirt, grime and build up. Don’t forget the knobs and buttons, which can accumulate dirt and bacteria.

2. Clean the lint filter

Perhaps the most important step is to maintain and clean your clothes dryer filter to ensure safe and effective dryer operation. When lint is trapped in the dryer, it causes the motor to work harder causing wear and tear. A clogged vent will also block airflow to the machine and this could cause it to overheat. To clean your lint filter, simply pull out the lint trap screen. Remove any large clumps of lint, thread or debris. Then, rinse under warm, soapy water.

Allow to dry completely before replacing it into your dryer. If you spot any lint in the replacement slot, give a quick vacuum to remove excess.

A torn or damaged lint filter must be replaced immediately. You can find the right lint filter for your dryer model at Statewide Appliance Spares.

3. Clean the dryer drum

Wipe the drum with a soft damp cloth and an all-purpose cleaner. Check for any debris that may be wedged in the drum grooves and remove.

4. Clean and check the dryer door seal

Worn out, cracked seals will impact the air temperature in your dryer. This in turn, can impact drying time. Check the seals to ensure there are no cracks or damage. Replacing the seal is quick and easy. You can find your replacement dryer door seals here.

5. Remove accumulated dust

The back panel of your dryer can accumulate dust, debris and lint. With the dryer power safely disconnected, you can unscrew the rear panel of your dyer. Clean any lint, carefully ensuring you do not disturb wire connections. Replace and screw your back panel once complete.

Maintain your clothes dryer with these handy tips:

• Empty the lint trap after each and every load
• Wipe down the interior and exterior of your dryer with all-purpose spray and a soft cloth regularly
• Wash the lint filter monthly in warm soapy water and allow to air dry
• Check and empty pockets of your clothes before placing in your dryer. These can cause damage to both the dryer and your clothes
• Spin your clothes as dry as possible in your washing machine before placing in your dryer. This will cut down your drying time

Regular maintenance and care can certainly increase the lifespan of your household appliances. Over time however, things may start to deteriorate or go wrong with your laundry appliances.

If you need replacement washing machine or dryer spare parts, you can find everything you need at Statewide Appliance Spares. We have Australia’s biggest range of washer spares and dryer spares and offer fast, Australia wide delivery.