In order to prevent as many malfunctions as possible, and make the machine work better and get really clean clothes, it is recommended to periodically maintain the washing machine for cleaning and preservation of it over the years

The washing machine is one of busiest devices in the house, certainly in family homes. If you have small children in the house you probably run it every day, sometimes even more than once a day. Over time the washing machine may accumulate scale, dust and even mold all that may affect the clothes and of course the proper functioning of the machine. Washing machines are designed to last for many years. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy high performance and proper operation of the machine for a long time.

First of all, prior to each wash, it is recommended to make sure that the pockets of the clothing items are empty, that the machine is not loaded with many clothes. A loaded machine will clean the clothes less well.

1. Keep clean

The washing machine accumulates dust and dirt not only from the inside, but also from the outside. Dust, especially if it is near the drum and inside part of the machine, may mix with the water and penetrate the fibers of the clothing items. Wipe the machine with a damp cloth once every week or two. Clean the door and the rubber that surrounds the drum.

2. Clean the washing powder drawer

If black spots or powder residues are found in the detergent and softener drawer, it is recommended to wash them as soon as possible. Every time the machine is operated, the detergent the softener are transmitted into the drum and clothes, including the soap residues and even mold that may mature in a dirty drawer. The drawer can be easily pulled out and cleaned with warm water and regular dish soap. Be sure to clean the drawer once a month.

3. Once a month: remove limescale from internal parts

It is recommended to periodically clean the washing machine systems and its internal parts. Since water in Israel is rich in calcium and the limescale accumulates easily, the machine must be cleared not only from the dirt that accumulates inside it, but also from the limescale, that can clog the machine pipes and disrupt its operation. To remove the limescale, it is recommended to pore a half cup of lemon salt or Sano Anti Kals specifically designated for washing machines into the washing powder compartment and to activate the machine on the boiling program without clothes.

4. Cleaning the filter

If the clothes come out dirty, with a bad odor or the function of the machine function seems poor, there is no need to urgently call the technician - it may simply be that the filter is blocked. The filter of the machine is usually placed at the bottom of the machine on the front or on one of the sides behind a small lid. Open the lid and release the filter that is screwed inside. It will usually be clogged with traces of powder, hair, rubber bands and even money. Rinse the filter with warm water under the tap and place it back. Note that releasing the filter will be followed with a release of some amount of water. By the way, it is recommended to empty and clean the filter once every three months even if you do not notice any decrease in performance of the machine.

5. Why do clothes have a bad odor?

Clothes with unpleasant odors can indicate a blocked filter, but not only that. Accumulation of mold and bacteria can spread bad odors too. If the washing machine is infected with the mold, run it empty on the boiling program with half a cup of vinegar, which will destroy the mold and neutralize bad odors. Wipe the rubber around the drum frequently. Keeping the rubber dry between one washing to another will prevent accumulation of bacteria. In addition, when the machine is not in use leave the machine door open to keep the drum ventilated.

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