How to disinfect an automatic washing machine

The washing machine includes parts made of metal, plastic, glass and rubber. Microorganisms are capable of multiplying on each. In addition, hard water causes scale deposits. All this shortens the service life and degrades the quality of washing. To disinfect a washing machine, you can use traditional methods or ready-made gels, powders, tablets.

The need to disinfect the washing machine

A washing machine is a haven for all kinds of microorganisms. Warmth, moisture, the presence of a nutrient medium - this makes the life of bacteria easy and carefree.

However, such a neighborhood is not only unpleasant for a person, but also dangerous. Lack of proper care of the machine leads to the appearance of mold, bad odor, and the proliferation of microorganisms.

Disinfection of the washing machine

Regular car maintenance helps you avoid trouble. It needs to be washed and disinfected inside and out. This procedure takes little time. As a result, there is less chance of getting allergies, there is no bad smell, and the equipment has a pleasant appearance. For high-quality cleaning, the following machine parts are processed:

drain filter;
powder compartment;
cuff;

frame;
drum;
heating element.

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I work in the household appliance repair industry. Extensive experience in restoring washing machines and dishwashers.

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Regular cleaning of these parts will not only help maintain hygiene but will also extend the life of the device.

Does washing clothes kill viruses such as coronavirus?

This is a difficult question because the technically correct answer can be misleading.

The following definitions are proposed for “cleaning” and “disinfection”:

Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt, and contaminants from surfaces. Cleaning doesn't kill germs, it removes them, reducing the number and risk of infection spreading.
Disinfection refers to the use of chemicals to kill germs on a surface. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on the surface after cleaning, it can further reduce the risk of spreading infection.

Drain filter

It allows dirt to pass through after washing. Dirty water, detergent residues, small objects, hair, and fabric fibers get here. Therefore, the drain filter periodically becomes clogged.

It is easy to clean. You need to find the cover at the very bottom on the front wall, open it, and unscrew the filter. You should prepare in advance: place a rag or flat container into which the remaining water will drain. The unscrewed filter is cleaned of dirt, washed under running water, and then returned to its place.

Do you turn off the water tap after washing?

Oh yes! No.

Are certain types of tissue more susceptible to the virus than others?

How long the virus lasts depends on the fabric, as some materials are more porous than others.

The researchers believe that the fibers in the porous material trap virus particles, dry them and break them apart, and make smooth surfaces such as leather and vinyl easier to clean.

It is believed that synthetic materials like polyester may retain germs longer than breathable cotton-based fabrics, so synthetic outerwear, underwear and dresses should be thoroughly washed.

As information and research related to COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, continues to evolve, research on it tells us the ability of the virus to remain on surfaces such as cardboard, steel, copper and plastic, door handles and high-traffic areas.

Some viruses can remain active after two to three days on plastic and stainless steel, 24 hours on cardboard and four hours on copper. And most likely, some of the clothing details such as buttons, zippers, etc. can be made from these materials.

Detergent tray

Constantly comes into contact with powders and rinses. Detergents are not always completely washed off, and the water has increased hardness.

Because of this, the compartment quickly becomes covered with mineral stone and plaque. It's quite difficult to wash off.

It is advisable to take out the tray and soak it for an hour or two in hot water with any strong detergent. After this, you should wipe off the plaque, rinse the part and return it to its place.

Cleaning the detergent drawer

To avoid having to constantly carry out this procedure, after each wash it is necessary to rinse and wipe the compartment dry. By the way, we must not forget about the place of its attachment. A lot of bad things accumulate there too.

Frame

To maintain cleanliness, the body of the machine should be periodically washed with a soft cloth soaked in a soapy solution, or simply in water with the addition of dishwashing detergent.

After this, rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly. A microfiber cloth is best for this, as it absorbs moisture fairly quickly.

The glass sunroof should be washed with glass cleaner, as it does not leave streaks and gives a very pleasant aroma. Do not use abrasive products. After such treatment, scratches may remain in which dirt will accumulate.

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Cuff

A detail that allows the door to close tightly and prevent water from leaking out. The cuff is moistened with a damp cloth and wiped dry after each wash.

If the elastic band has already become very dirty due to infrequent care, wash it carefully. You should be careful with aggressive detergents: they will damage the elastic.

Washer cuff

TOP 8 industrially produced cleaning products for washing machines

Photo	Name	Rating	Price
#1		"Dr. Beckmann" for washing machines	⭐ 4.9 / 5 2 - votes	Go to description and price
#2		"Sandokkaebi" for washing machines	⭐ 4.75 / 5	Go to description and price
#3		"Magic Power-023" for washing machines	⭐ 4.7 / 5	Go to description and price
#4		"Topperr 3203" from scale	⭐ 4.6 / 5 1 - voice	Go to description and price
#5		"Kristall-fix" for large household appliances	⭐ 4.5 / 5	Go to description and price
#6		"Nagara" for washing machines	⭐ 4.4 / 5 1 - voice	Go to description and price
#7		"Luxus Professional" for washing machines	⭐ 4.3 / 5	Go to description and price
#8		Express descaling cleaner “Top House”	⭐ 4.25 / 5	Go to description and price

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Drum cleaning and descaling

The most difficult stage, since you need to process the internal, hidden parts. You can invite a specialist who will open the car and clean everything himself. But it's better to do it yourself. There are two ways:

boiling;
using citric acid or vinegar.

Some people use chlorine-containing products. Experienced professionals do not recommend doing this. Strong substances such as “Belezny” can damage the internal parts of the washing machine.

Limonka

Boiling

The easiest way to disinfect. Allows you to kill most bacteria and fungi. Sometimes it is enough to wash things at maximum temperature (90-95 degrees). If the housewife does not use this mode, you can run it idle once a month.

Citric acid and vinegar

To not only defeat bacteria, but also clean the heating elements and drum from scale, add 9% vinegar or citric acid. It should be taken into account that after using the essence the specific smell remains for a long time. Because of this, many people refuse to use it.

Do you store laundry in the washing machine?

Oh yes! No.

Vinegar (2 cups) is added directly to the drum and the wash is started at the highest temperature. Citric acid (100 grams) is used in the same way.

The effect of using these substances can be enhanced. After heating the water, the wash pauses. In this state, the scale will move away from the parts. The process will take approximately 60 minutes. After this, the wash starts again.

The methods listed above for disinfecting a washing machine are easy and safe. They won’t take much time, but will help the washing machine to work effectively for the entire required period and avoid the risk of fungus and mold. We also note the importance of carrying out this procedure before washing children's clothes.

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What modes will help during the washing process?

Washing at elevated temperatures itself already disinfects the machine. Most microbes die at temperatures above 60 degrees.

So, for disinfection, you can activate the “synthetic 60” or “cotton 60” mode. This will get rid of dust mites and other microorganisms.

“Antibacterial” mode is provided in modern machines. With it, the water is heated to 80 degrees, the set temperature is maintained for at least 20 minutes.