A well-maintained washing machine is the key to clean laundry and a long lifespan of the appliance. Washing machine cleaners are specially developed to eliminate dirt, limescale, and odors that accumulate inside the washing machine over time.
Dirt, detergent residue, and limescale can significantly impair the efficiency of your washing machine. Deposits on the drum, in the seals, and in the detergent drawer provide ideal conditions for bacteria and mold, which cause bad odors.
Additionally, laundry may feel “musty” after washing. By using a suitable washing machine cleaner, deposits and odors dissolve, and the machine stays hygienically clean, which also extends the washing machine’s lifespan.
Washing Machine Cleaning – Optimal Use
Applying the Washing Machine Cleaner
To achieve Optimal washing results, the washing machine should be cleaned approximately every three months or after every 30th wash. Make sure the machine is empty and set the program to a high temperature (typically 90°C or higher) to effectively eliminate bacteria.
Add the washing machine cleaner to the main compartment of the detergent drawer and let the program run completely. For seals and the detergent drawer, the washing machine cleaner can additionally be applied with a damp cloth and wiped off to remove stubborn deposits.
Frequency of Washing Machine Cleaning
The frequency of cleaning depends on usage and water conditions. In households with hard water, a monthly application of a descaler is advisable, while hygiene cleaners are sufficient every three months.
Heavily soiled washing machines or those that smell unpleasant benefit from more intensive cleaning. If possible, wipe the rubber seals dry after each wash and clean the detergent drawer to prevent deposits.
Home Remedies versus Special Washing Machine Cleaners
Home remedies such as vinegar and citric acid are an inexpensive alternative to neutralize odors and dissolve limescale in the short term. However, these methods can damage seals and metal parts of the machine over time. A specialized washing machine cleaner is gentler and specifically targets all types of dirt, bacteria, and odors.
If you want a quick, cost-effective solution, home remedies are suitable, but for long-term care of your machine, a special cleaner is the better choice.