The best way to clean behind a stacked washer dryer is to use a long-handled duster, a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment, and a microfiber cloth. These tools will help you reach the dust, lint, and dirt that accumulate behind the appliances and prevent fire hazards and mold growth. In this article, we will show you how to clean behind a stacked washer dryer in a few simple steps.
Why is it important to clean behind a stacked washer dryer?
Cleaning behind a stacked washer dryer is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also of safety and health. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, dryer fires account for about 2,900 home fires each year, causing an estimated $35 million in property loss. One of the leading causes of dryer fires is the failure to clean the lint filter and the vent system. Lint is highly flammable and can ignite when exposed to high temperatures or sparks from the dryer.
Moreover, dust and dirt behind the washer and dryer can create a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria, which can affect the air quality and cause allergies, asthma, and respiratory infections. Mold can also damage the walls, floors, and electrical wiring behind the appliances. Therefore, it is essential to clean behind a stacked washer dryer regularly, at least once every six months, to prevent these problems.
How to clean behind a stacked washer dryer
Cleaning behind a stacked washer dryer may seem like a daunting task, but it is actually quite easy if you follow these steps:
Unplug the washer and dryer from the power source. This will prevent electric shocks and damage to the appliances. If you have a gas dryer, you may also need to turn off the gas valve and disconnect the gas line.
Pull out the washer and dryer from the wall. You may need to use a furniture slider or a dolly to move the heavy appliances. Be careful not to damage the floor or the hoses and cords. If you have limited space, you may only be able to pull out one appliance at a time.
Use a long-handled duster to remove the dust and lint from the back of the appliances and the wall. You can also use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to suck up the dust and lint. Make sure to reach the corners and crevices where dust and lint tend to accumulate.
Wipe down the back of the appliances and the wall with a microfiber cloth dampened with water and vinegar. Vinegar is a natural cleaner that can disinfect and deodorize the surfaces. You can also use a mild detergent or a commercial cleaner if you prefer. Avoid using bleach or ammonia, as they can damage the appliances and create toxic fumes.
Clean the dryer vent and the lint filter. The dryer vent is the duct that connects the dryer to the outside. It can get clogged with lint over time, which can reduce the dryer’s efficiency and increase the risk of fire. To clean the dryer vent, you will need to disconnect it from the dryer and the wall, and use a vent brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove the lint. You can also use a leaf blower to blow out the lint from the outside. The lint filter is the screen that traps the lint from the clothes. You should clean it after every load, but you can also give it a deep cleaning by soaking it in hot water and vinegar, and scrubbing it with a soft brush.
Push back the washer and dryer to their original position. Make sure to reconnect the hoses, cords, and gas line if applicable. Plug in the appliances and turn on the gas valve if needed. Test the appliances to make sure they are working properly.
Cleaning behind a stacked washer dryer is an important maintenance task that can improve the performance and safety of your appliances, as well as the health and hygiene of your home. By using a long-handled duster, a vacuum cleaner, and a microfiber cloth, you can easily remove the dust, lint, and dirt that build up behind the appliances. You should also clean the dryer vent and the lint filter to prevent fire hazards and increase the dryer’s efficiency. You should clean behind a stacked washer dryer at least once every six months, or more often if you notice excessive dust or lint.
