How to Naturally Clean a Washing Machine

Photo: Nicole Raudonis

I don't know about you, but when I deep clean my home I always forget one tiny place - the washing machine. You'd be surprised to see all the dirt and grime that's currently living there. It's important to clean your washing machine regularly because hard water can cause lime buildup, causing your machine to run slower. Even worse, odours from your machine can eventually come off on your clean clothing. Did I gross you out yet?

If you have a top load machine like I do, here's a quick, natural (and bleach-free!) way to make your washing machine looking and smelling great again.

The two items you'll need are a microfiber cloth (or any cleaning cloth) and white vinegar. Don't worry. Your machine won't smell like stinky vinegar when you're finished.

• Set your washer to the hottest temperature and largest load setting
• Add four cups of white vinegar to the hot water and close the lid
• Allow the vinegar to swoosh inside your washer for a few minutes.
• After 3-4 minutes, open the lid or stop your machine and let the vinegar sit for one hour. This will allow the vinegar to break down any dirt, grime, mildew and bacteria.

Photo: Nicole Raudonis

While the vinegar is doing its job, use a clean microfiber cloth dipped in the vinegar water to wipe down the your washer. Don't forget the top of the washer, the fabric softener dispenser, the setting knobs and the exterior panels.

Photo: Nicole Raudonis

Once your machine stops running, open the lid and see how sparking clean it is. You may notice that there is a bit of scum around the top of the washer bin. The water doesn't reach this high, so you'll need to wipe this down with a sponge or cloth.

To maintain a gorgeous, clean washing machine, it's recommended that you clean it at least once a month. Also, make sure to leave the top lid open between uses to prevent excess moisture buildup and mould.

If you have a high efficiency front loading washing machine, it's even more important you clean it regularly. HE machines use less water and energy which can result in more mould, mildew and residue in your washer. You can use the same formula as about for your cleaning solution, however here are the steps you'll need to take to get a sparkly clean (& smelling great!) HE washing machine.

Set your washer to the hot water or whitest white cycle setting.If your machine has an extra rinse option, choose that too.Add your cleaning solution and allow the cycle to run until complete.Afterward, be sure to wipe down the rubber seal on the door!