Washing machines aren’t immune to planned obsolescence. To help yours last longer while keeping it running smoothly, here are our tips to prevent mold and unpleasant odors, and to pamper your laundry: they’re simple and very budget-friendly.
White vinegar for cleaning the washing machine
We all know white vinegar is a powerful household staple that has proven itself time and again. But have you ever tried using it in your washing machine?
Cleaning and disinfecting your washing machine with white vinegar
Bad odors coming from your washer? Filling the room with a pleasant scent? The damp environment can foster certain molds and using your machine can become a hassle… Not very pleasant and what should you do?
This easy recipe will disinfect your washing machine for sure:
- Pour half a glass (half a cup) of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser or directly into the drum.
- Run an empty wash cycle (no detergent) at a hot temperature of 90° C (194° F).
- Do this operation at least every four weeks.
If you wish, you can also boost the effectiveness of white vinegar by adding a tablespoon of baking soda. Finally, to prevent mold issues, leave the door of your washer ajar at the end of each cycle. Plus, white vinegar helps to descale your washing machine.
Clothes like new
Keeping clothes’ colors vibrant isn’t easy: after being worn and washed, they tend to lose their shine. If your clothes look yellowed and dull, here’s what you should do with white vinegar:
- Pour about 350 ml of white vinegar into your washing machine.
- Put the dosing ball with the detergent needed in the dispenser and start the chosen wash program.
Just like baking soda, white vinegar will naturally restore the lost brightness of your clothes.
White vinegar to soften your clothes
Had enough of supermarket fabric softeners? Their effectiveness is still questionable, they can contain hazardous substances and they aren’t cheap. To save money, know that white vinegar helps remove any mineral deposits from fabrics, restoring their natural softness:
- Pour about 70 ml of white vinegar and 30 ml of water into the compartment intended for fabric softener
- Pour your usual amount of detergent into the dosing ball and start your machine
The result is guaranteed.
There are many tips for washing and maintaining your washing machine effectively, but at least with these you’ll save money and help reduce pollution. That’s also about blending practicality with pleasure.
