How to disinfect a washing machine: cleaning methods in the washing process
During the operation of the washing machine there is an accumulation of microorganisms. For bacteria, this is an ideal environment for reproduction - moisture and heat. To prevent the formation of mold with all its consequences, it is necessary to carry out disinfection: washing machine requires regular care. Let's find out, how to properly disinfect a washing machine.
What is washing machine disinfection
Constant contact of water with various detergents leave plaque on the parts of the machine. This can result in more than just an unpleasant odor, but also a fungus. Disinfection promotes neutralization, elimination of microbes and bacteria. Their main habitat is rubber manhole covers, powder loading container, filter, drum. If you do not clean the machine, then with the accumulation of microbial products, they will flow into the things loaded for washing. So, after socks freshly washed underwear can detect skin irritation.
The stages of cleaning the unit include the following items:
- after each wash, wipe the external parts with a dry cloth;
- to carry out disinfection by special means;
- remove mold and eliminate odors;
- rinse the filter;
- washing and removing dirt from the outside of the machine.
These measures will contribute to a longer operation of the machine - the machine and maintain it in good condition.
Methods of cleaning the unit
Care of the washing machine should be carried out on a regular basis, as it depends on the service life and quality of washing. Proper processing of the unit includes 2 directions:
- external washing;
- internal cleaning.
External washing
External wiping is regular and is carried out after each wash, but not less often 4-5 days. The process begins with removing dust from the housing. If necessary, wet wash with neutral detergents. You can use dishwashing liquid or any other means, free of alcohol and chlorine. Read here about the right choice of washing machine cleaners.
Importantly, to keep the machine dry. It is necessary to monitor the ingress of water and drain it in time. Otherwise, it may corrode the housing and short the electronics, or passing current at the time of contact with metal parts of the machine.
It is necessary to watch the unit especially strictly, which is located in close proximity to the sink or shower.
Wipe the hatch door first with a damp cloth. Remains of moisture are removed with a dry cloth, as from the hatch, and from the drum. The hatch glass can be washed with window cleaner, if the plaque could not be cleaned with ordinary water. In the case of regular cleaning, there will be no need to use detergents, dry wiping will suffice.
Internal cleaning
Internal cleaning involves the treatment of several sectors and is carried out irregularly. To prevent the appearance of unpleasant odors should be at least 1 wash the drain filter once a month. To remove dirt, it must be removed and cleaned with detergent under warm running water. If plaque is not removed gently, you can use chlorine-containing liquids. These can be liquids for washing the bathroom and toilet.
The source of germs is a tray for loading powder and conditioner. In this place you can often see mold. Washing with water alone will not be enough. For, to remove all contaminants, it is better to soak the tray in water with detergent, and then remove the dirt with an old toothbrush. For disinfection, you can wash Domestos.
If the water quality is not very good and a limescale has formed, it can be removed with ordinary baking soda or salt.
You can clean the internal parts while starting the washing mode using some machine cleaners. There are several ways to process the machine from the inside:
- Connect 150 ml of bleach and 250 ml of liquid detergent and choose a washing program, provides heating of water not less, than on 60 °C.
- Mold and odor are well removed by citric acid. To do this, pour a couple of tbsp. spoons into the detergent compartment and run the wash mode at maximum temperature. You can read more about the benefits and dangers of this method here.
Internal cleaning can be performed 1 — 2 times on 6 months, depending on the intensity of use of the machine, number of daily washes.
Disinfection during washing
There are other ways, how to clean a washing machine. The unit can be disinfected without the use of chemical liquids. There are many modes in washing machines, able to do along with washing and internal cleaning of the machine.
If regular washing is carried out in modes with a temperature of not more 40 °C, then in order to get rid of dust mites and a number of other microorganisms, can be periodically washed on the program "Cotton" at a temperature 60 ° C and above. There are a number of models, in which the disinfection function is provided. It can be in the presence of programs such as: "Antimicrobial regime", "Hygiene", "Boiling", "Steam treatment". Machines with new technologies include cleaning with silver ions or washing with electrolysis.
Operation of the machine at high temperatures already provides a disinfection mode, since many bacteria at temperatures above 80 ° C perish.
Depending on the capabilities of the machine, the procedure of cleaning and disinfection can be carried out according to the schedule. It is possible to alternate washing at high temperature with internal finishing by means of special mixes. But at the same time, important to remember, that the use of chlorine-containing liquids and abrasives is unacceptable for cleaning the outer body of the washing machine.
