The most effective way to kill bacteria in washing machine is to use hot water and bleach. These two factors can eliminate 99.9% of germs and mold that may be lurking in your washer. However, there are also other methods that can help you sanitize your washing machine, such as vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and commercial cleaners. In this article, we will explain how to use these methods and why they work.
You may think that your washing machine is always clean because it washes your clothes with soap and water. However, this is not the case. Your washing machine can harbor bacteria, fungi, and other contaminants that can cause unpleasant odors, stains, and even health problems. Some of the common causes of washing machine bacteria are:
Using too much or too little detergent, which can leave residues that feed bacteria.
Washing clothes at low temperatures, which can allow bacteria to survive and multiply.
Leaving wet clothes in the washer for too long, which can create a moist and warm environment for bacteria to grow.
Using fabric softeners, which can coat the drum and hoses with a sticky layer that attracts bacteria.
Not cleaning the filter, dispenser, and door seal regularly, which can trap dirt and debris that harbor bacteria.
If you do not clean your washing machine regularly, you may notice some signs of bacterial growth, such as:
A musty or sour smell coming from your washer or your clothes.
A slimy or moldy film on the drum, door, or gasket of your washer.
A cloudy or discolored water in your washer or your clothes.
A reduced performance or efficiency of your washer.
A skin irritation, rash, or infection after wearing your clothes.
To prevent these problems, you should clean your washing machine at least once a month, or more often if you use it frequently or wash heavily soiled items. Cleaning your washing machine can also extend its lifespan and save you money on repairs and energy bills.
How to Use Hot Water and Bleach to Kill Bacteria in Washing Machine
Hot water and bleach are the most effective combination to kill bacteria in washing machine. Hot water can loosen and dissolve dirt and grease, while bleach can disinfect and deodorize your washer. Bleach can also remove stains and brighten your clothes. However, you should be careful when using bleach, as it can damage some fabrics and colors. You should also wear gloves and avoid inhaling the fumes.
To use hot water and bleach to clean your washing machine, follow these steps:
Fill the bleach dispenser with bleach, or add 1/2 cup of bleach directly to the drum of your washer.
Run a full cycle with hot water and no clothes.
When the cycle is done, wipe the inside of the drum, door, and gasket with a damp cloth.
Leave the door open to let the washer air dry.
How to Use Vinegar to Kill Bacteria in Washing Machine
Vinegar is another natural and inexpensive way to kill bacteria in washing machine. Vinegar is acidic, which can break down mineral deposits, soap scum, and hard water stains. Vinegar can also eliminate odors and disinfect your washer. However, vinegar can also corrode some metal parts of your washer, so you should not use it too often or mix it with bleach.
To use vinegar to clean your washing machine, follow these steps:
Fill the fabric softener dispenser with vinegar, or add 2 cups of vinegar directly to the drum of your washer.
Run a full cycle with hot water and no clothes.
When the cycle is done, wipe the inside of the drum, door, and gasket with a damp cloth.
Leave the door open to let the washer air dry.
How to Use Baking Soda to Kill Bacteria in Washing Machine
Baking soda is another household item that can kill bacteria in washing machine. Baking soda is alkaline, which can neutralize odors and remove stains. Baking soda can also soften water and boost the cleaning power of your detergent. However, baking soda can also leave residues that can clog your washer, so you should not use it too often or mix it with vinegar.
To use baking soda to clean your washing machine, follow these steps:
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the detergent dispenser, or sprinkle it over the drum of your washer.
Run a full cycle with hot water and no clothes.
When the cycle is done, wipe the inside of the drum, door, and gasket with a damp cloth.
Leave the door open to let the washer air dry.
How to Use Hydrogen Peroxide to Kill Bacteria in Washing Machine
Hydrogen peroxide is another option to kill bacteria in washing machine. Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful oxidizer, which can kill germs and mold. Hydrogen peroxide can also whiten and brighten your clothes. However, hydrogen peroxide can also fade some colors and damage some fabrics, so you should test it on a small area before using it.
To use hydrogen peroxide to clean your washing machine, follow these steps:
Fill the bleach dispenser with hydrogen peroxide, or add 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide directly to the drum of your washer.
Run a full cycle with hot water and no clothes.
When the cycle is done, wipe the inside of the drum, door, and gasket with a damp cloth.
Leave the door open to let the washer air dry.
How to Use Commercial Cleaners to Kill Bacteria in Washing Machine
If you prefer to use commercial cleaners to kill bacteria in washing machine, you can find many products that are specially designed for this purpose. These products can contain different ingredients, such as chlorine, oxygen, enzymes, or surfactants, that can sanitize and deodorize your washer. However, you should always follow the instructions on the label and use the recommended amount of the product.
To use commercial cleaners to clean your washing machine, follow these steps:
Add the product to the detergent dispenser, bleach dispenser, or drum of your washer, according to the directions on the package.
Run a full cycle with hot water and no clothes.
When the cycle is done, wipe the inside of the drum, door, and gasket with a damp cloth.
Leave the door open to let the washer air dry.
Conclusion
Cleaning your washing machine regularly is important to keep it free of bacteria, fungi, and other contaminants that can cause odors, stains, and health problems. The most effective way to kill bacteria in washing machine is to use hot water and bleach, but you can also use other methods, such as vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, or commercial cleaners. Whichever method you choose, make sure to follow the steps carefully and avoid mixing different products. By doing so, you can enjoy a clean and fresh washing machine and clothes.
