An unpleasant smell in the washing machine is a problem that many housewives face.
The cause may be the accumulation of mold, bacteria and detergent residue.
Vinegar, due to its antibacterial and deodorizing properties, is an effective and affordable solution to this problem.
Causes of odor
Before you begin cleaning, it is important to understand the causes of the unpleasant odor.
Most often, this occurs due to stagnant moisture in hard-to-reach places of the machine, accumulation of powder and conditioner residues, as well as due to the formation of mold and bacteria in rubber seals and filters.
Preparing the washing machine
Before using vinegar, you need to prepare the machine. You should remove visible dirt, clean the filter and detergent drawer.
Particular attention should be paid to rubber seals, where dirt and moisture often accumulate.
Choosing Vinegar
To clean the washing machine, it is best to use white table vinegar 9%. It effectively fights bacteria and unpleasant odors, but does not leave its own persistent aroma. Apple or wine vinegar are less effective and can leave their own smell.
Cleaning process
To clean the machine, pour 1-2 cups of vinegar into the main wash compartment. Then run the empty machine on the hottest wash cycle.
High temperature combined with vinegar will help effectively remove dirt and eliminate odor.
Cleaning hard to reach places
After the main wash cycle, it is worth paying attention to hard-to-reach areas.
Wipe the rubber seals, door and drum of the machine with a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water. This will help remove any remaining dirt and prevent mold.
Additional rinse
After cleaning with vinegar, it is recommended to perform an additional rinse cycle with clean water. This will help wash away any remaining vinegar and dirt, as well as eliminate any possible vinegar smell.
Regular prevention
To prevent the unpleasant odor from reappearing, it is recommended to carry out preventive cleaning of the washing machine with vinegar once every 1-2 months.
This will help keep your machine clean and prevent bacteria from growing.
Alternative means
If the smell persists after treating with vinegar, you may want to try alternative remedies.
Baking soda, citric acid, or special washing machine cleaners can be effective in combating particularly stubborn odors.
Precautionary measures
When using vinegar to clean your washing machine, it is important to take precautions.
Vinegar should not be mixed with other cleaning products, especially those containing chlorine, as this may result in the formation of toxic fumes.
Washing machine maintenance
In addition to regular cleaning, it is important to follow the operating rules of the washing machine.
After washing, leave the door slightly open for ventilation, avoid using excessive amounts of detergent, and clean the filter and detergent drawer regularly.
Using vinegar to remove unpleasant odors from your washing machine is an effective and economical method.
Regular use of this product will help keep your car clean and extend its service life.
With the right approach to caring for household appliances, you can avoid many problems and ensure comfortable use of the washing machine for a long time.
