Cleaning your washer & dryer could save you money
KSN/KODE — It’s officially spring, which means many are embarking on an annual spring cleaning ritual. Between scrubbing baseboards and clearing out gutters, it’s easy to overlook two workhorse appliances: the washing machine and dryer. Though it might seem counterintuitive – after all, one machine cleans, and the other dries – both require regular maintenance to function efficiently. According to Automatic Laundry, doing so could save you money on utility and water costs.
Here’s why:
Lower Costs, Save Money
Maintaining cleanliness in your machines not only decreases energy and water consumption, consequently lowering utility expenses, but it also extends the lifespan of the appliances. The preventative measures alleviate strain on motors and other components, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns. Regular check-ups on your appliances can help you identify potential problems before it becomes a costly expense. Additionally, cleaning serves as a preventative measure against the growth of mold and bacteria, ensuring both your clothes and the machine remain in optimal condition.
Here’s what to look for and how to service your machines:
Washing Woes
Washing machines are notorious for leaving behind a residue of soap scum, scale, and detergent build-up, like a shower or bathtub. This can be a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Depending on what kind of washer you have, this film can cling to the nooks and crannies of the door, lid, or drum causing your machine to smell while leaving an unpleasant residue and funky odor on your washables.
Washing Machine Maintenance
While most manufacturers have cleaning guidelines in the user manual, simple routine maintenance can improve a machine’s performance and longevity. For top loaders, run a hot cycle on the highest water level setting, adding bleach, for a mix of 2 cups vinegar and a half cup of baking soda during the cycle. Allow the solution to sit for up to an hour before the final rinse cycle, followed by an extra rinse to ensure no residue remains.
Some machines may require additional elbow grease, like front-loading machines. Remove and clean detachable parts, like the detergent dispensers and rubber gaskets. Machine-cleaning tablets are also a convenient alternative and are available for purchase in most stores or online. Remember to unplug your machine before cleaning its filter and drain.
Dryer Woes
Lint accumulation is commonly found between the drum and outer walls and inside the vent duct, posing a significant fire hazard. But maintaining a dryer involves more than just the lint trap; residues from detergents and dryer sheets can amass on the drum and the lint-trap screen. This buildup can compromise your dryer’s efficiency.
Dryer Maintenance
To effectively clean the duct, start by unplugging the machine, and detach the duct from the dryer. Remove lint with your hand or a narrow vacuum cleaner attachment. Most duct ports are big enough to use the attachment for any remaining lint trapped between the drum and dryer walls. To clean the lint trap mesh and the interior of the drum, a simple solution of hot water and soap should suffice.
