How to Effectively Clean Soap Scum from the Washing Machine
Soap scum in your washing machine isn’t just gross; it can affect the freshness of your clothes and stop your machine from working properly. In this guide, we’ll show you how easy cleaning scum and dirt in a washing machine really is and keep it from coming back.
Why Does Soap Scum Build Up in Washing Machines?
Your washing machine is the perfect home for soap scum. It forms when detergent and fabric softener residues build up inside your machine. Therefore, if you’re not drying out the drum, seals, or detergent drawer properly after each cycle, you’re practically inviting soap scum to make itself at home. Soap scum doesn’t just cause awful smells; it can also impact your machine’s performance and even end up on your clothes. If you’ve noticed any bad washing machine smells, soap scum and dirt residue are likely to blame.
How to Remove Soap Scum From Washing Machine: Step-by-Step Guide
Tools You'll Need to Clean Soap Scum from a Washing Machine
Before removing soap scum from your washing machine, gather these essentials to make the process easier:
- Rubber Gloves: Protect your hands from grime.
- Preventative solution: It is best to prevent the build-up of soap scum in the first place. Start by using Calgon 4-in-1 gel to prevent future build-up.
- Scrub Brush or Toothbrush: To remove soap scum from the washing machine seal, you'll need a small brush to get into all the crevices. A toothbrush works wonders for this!
- Microfibre Cloth or Sponge: Once you've scrubbed away the scum, you'll need something to wipe it all clean. Microfibre cloths or sponges are perfect for this, as they're gentle yet effective.
- Bucket or Spray Bottle: When applying your cleaning solution, a spray bottle gives you control, but a bucket with a sponge works just as well if you're using a more traditional cleaner.
- Old Towel: Cleaning can get messy, especially when dealing with dirty washing machine seals. Have an old towel handy to catch any drips or wipe up spills as you go.
With these tools, you're all set to learn how to clean a dirty washing machine and finally say goodbye to that musty smell!
1. How to Get Rid of Soap Scum in Washing Machine Drum
The drum is the central part of your washing machine where the clothes go, so keeping it dirt-and-scum-free is a must. Here’s how to do it:
- Run a Hot, Empty Cycle: Start by running an empty cycle on the hottest setting. Add two cups of white vinegar or bleach to help break down the soap scum. This is also a great way to start disinfecting your washing machine.
- Wipe It Down: Once the cycle is done, grab a cloth and wipe the inside of the drum. Make sure you get into all those little nooks and crannies where grime and scum like to hide.
- Wipe Away Surface Dirt: Start by wiping around the seal with a damp cloth to remove the obvious dirt. Then, with your fingers, gently pull back the rubber seal and wipe in the crevices.
- Scrub the Seal with Vinegar and Baking Soda: Even if you manage to get most of the soap scum away by wiping it, you still need to disinfect the seal to prevent it from returning. Mix up some vinegar and baking soda, or use a soap scum remover, and scrub the seal. Don’t forget to pull back the folds and clean those hidden spots!
- Dry It Off: After scrubbing, dry the seal thoroughly to prevent moisture from creeping back.
- Remove and Soak: Take out the drawer and soak it in warm, soapy water to loosen the residue.
- Scrub Thoroughly: Use a brush to clean every compartment and hidden corner.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse well and let the drawer dry completely before putting it back.
- Remove the Filter: Check your machine’s instruction manual and carefully remove the filter, accordingly.
- Clear Out Debris: Remove any dirt or lint inside.
- Soak if Necessary: For heavy grime, soak the filter in warm water before scrubbing.
- Dry Before Reinstalling: Ensure the filter is completely dry before placing it back.
2. How to Remove Soap Scum from a Washing Machine Seal
That rubber seal around the door? This is the ideal spot for soap scum to thrive as it's usually the hardest to dry out. Here’s how to remove scum from a washing machine seal:
3. Clean the Detergent Drawer
The detergent drawer often harbours soap scum and sticky residue. Clean it by following these steps:
4. Don’t Forget the Filter
The filter traps all kinds of debris and can quickly accumulate soap scum. Clean it as follows:
Preventing Soap Scum from Coming Back
Now that your washing machine is clean, here’s how to keep it that way:
Leave the Door Open
After every wash, leave the washing machine door slightly open to let air circulate and dry out the drum. This minimises moisture and prevents soap scum from forming.
Use the Right Amount of Detergent
Using too much detergent leads to excess residue that promotes soap scum. Always follow the recommended dosage on the pack and opt for a highly effective detergent when possible.
Use Calgon for Prevention
To keep limescale and residue at bay, use Calgon 4-in-1-Gel in every wash. It’ll help keep your machine clean and prevent soap scum and limescale build-up.
Run Regular Hot Cycles
Every month or so, run a hot, empty cycle with a cup of vinegar or a specialist washing machine cleaner to keep things fresh.
FAQs
How do I remove soap scum from my washing machine seal?
Mix vinegar and baking soda for a natural cleaner or use a specialist soap scum remover. Scrub the rubber seal thoroughly, ensuring you clean all the folds where soap scum hides.
How to clean a dirty washing machine?
Run a hot, empty cycle with vinegar or bleach to prevent soap scum from forming inside the drum. Then, wipe down the rubber seal and detergent drawer. Learning how to clean a washing machine properly will keep your appliance functioning efficiently for longer.
What’s the best preventative for a dirty washing machine?
We recommend Calgon 4-in-1 Gel for preventing the build-up of soap scum. For a natural alternative, vinegar and baking soda can work wonders.
By following these steps and adopting good habits, your washing machine will stay cleaner, fresher and free of soap scum!