While bleach is often used a common way to clean a washing machine, it is toxic, smelly, and can clog septic systems. So, we went on a quest to find the best way to clean your washer that is eco-friendly and cost effective. Those aren’t stains from your clothes (as I admittedly once thought)-those are germs! Gross! If you see those streaks, your washer is overdue for a cleaning. You’ll notice dark streaks along the rim. If you have a white washer, you may be able to see the buildup easily. If you use a natural solution, this process will not harm your septic system (or your wallet)-so the more often you clean, the better! In this way, protecting your clothing and your family means keeping your washer clean and fresh.Īs a general rule of thumb, you should be cleaning the inside and outside of your washer once per month.
If it gets bad enough, this smell may even start to come off on your clothing. This film of lingering detergent also traps odor particles, so your washer may start to harbor stinky smells. This can become a breeding ground for bacteria to grow and spread. Also, washing machines are, by design, hot and humid environments. These bacteria can clog the inner mechanisms, so your water doesn’t get as hot and your detergent won’t be as strong. The soap residue, minerals, and chemicals from your detergent can get locked inside your washing machine and create a thin film that traps bacteria. The washing machine’s job is to wash-why would the machine itself need to be cleaned? Isn’t it always filled with water and soap?