How to Clean a Top Loading Washing Machine

To clean a top loader, run a normal wash cycle (on hot) and place 1/2 cup bicarbonate of soda and 2 cups white vinegar in, once the machine has filled with water. Let it run as usual. The bicarb and vinegar break down any grease or dirt particles and keep the hoses nice and clean. Use a damp cloth with a little washing up liquid to clean any stains on the outside and wipe away dust residue. If the fabric softener dispenser is grotty, remove and either run it through your dishwasher (in the top basket) or wash in the sink with hot soapy water. Replacing fabric softener with vinegar is not only cheaper, it’s better for your machine too!

How to Clean a Front Loading Washing Machine

If you have a front loader, add 2 tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda into the detergent drawer and 1/2 cup white vinegar into the drum then run a normal wash (on hot). Just keep an eye on the machine while it’s washing as you may find it suds up a lot inside due to the build-up of soap residue. The more often you clean your machine, the less often this will occur over time. Also take time to clean out the filter (follow the manufacturer’s instructions). Clogged filters is the leading cause of problems in front loading machines.