One of the domestic problems that causes the most discomfort in people is the malfunction of the washing machine. Although it is often thought that the task of washing clothes is limited to putting it in the drum, adding detergent and choosing the most appropriate cycle, the truth is that its result will also depend on the maintenance that has been done between washes. A question that can be avoided with a simple element that is quite common in the kitchen: a spoon.
Over time and use, this appliance tends to stop cleaning as it should. That’s when the clothes, which should come out clean and smelling like detergent and fabric softener, appear with stains or a rather unpleasant musty aroma. A consequence of lack of maintenance that can be avoided with a simple homemade trick: place a spoon inside the washing machine.
According to experts, most of the time, musty smells and stains on clothing appear when they have accumulated. remains of lime, detergent and dirt inside. To avoid this, what most people usually do is clean the drum. However, many forget another element in which waste and humidity are usually stored, the rubber found on the door.
This is how the spoon trick works
This usually occurs at the end of the washing cycles, which is when the water mixed with scale and cleaning products accumulates in the rubber. AND, If the washing machine door is also closed, this moisture is retained. inside, causing the unpleasant smell, as well as reducing the useful life of the appliance.
To avoid this, what experts recommend is to place a spoon or other cutlery, preferably made of wood or plastic, on the door rubber to encourage the passage of air so that the gasket can dry properly. In addition, will favor the ventilation of the drumpreventing condensation from occurring and bacteria and mold from proliferating.
With this technique, the humidity will disappear from the inside of the washing machine, avoiding the much-feared musty smell and making the appliance stay clean for longer. However, thorough cleaning will still need to be carried out and periodically to prevent scale and debris from accumulating and reducing its useful life.
How to clean a washing machine
In order to thoroughly clean a washing machine, it is best to apply a solution of water and white vinegar, or cleaning vinegar, after each wash. This mixture can be used for both the drum and the gasket, always using a damp cloth and letting it dry completely before closing the door again of the appliance.
However, when a deep cleaning is needed because debris has already accumulated in some areas, it is best to use a soft-bristled brush moistened with a mixture of hot water and vinegar. It will also be useful to start a short cycle with the drum empty, just pouring the water and vinegar solution, as well as half a cup of baking soda.
Special attention to the filter
Finally, Another element that must be paid special attention to is the filter. This must be removed and cleaned at least twice a year, as waste such as coins, lint or hair usually accumulates in it. To clean it, it is best to unplug the appliance, protect the floor and empty the water from the washing machine.
Subsequently, you can unscrew the filter, counterclockwise, and remove all the dirt stored inside. The most advisable thing is clean it with an old toothbrush and cleaning productsalthough, if it has a lot of lime, the easiest thing to do is to let it soak in the same solution of hot water and vinegar for a few minutes.