How to Clean Your Washing Machine with Salt
A clean washing machine is essential for maintaining fresh laundry. Salt is an excellent natural cleaner for removing buildup, disinfecting, and deodorizing your washer.
Step-by-Step Guide
Prepare the Solution:
- Mix 1 cup of salt with 2 cups of white vinegar to create a natural cleaning solution.
Clean the Detergent Drawer:
- Remove the detergent drawer and scrub it with the salt-vinegar solution using an old toothbrush.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water before reinserting it into the machine.
Clean the Drum:
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of salt directly into the drum.
- Add 1 cup of white vinegar and run a hot water cycle (without laundry) to dissolve soap scum, mold, and bacteria.
Tackle the Rubber Gasket:
- Dip a cloth or sponge into the salt-vinegar mixture and scrub the rubber gasket around the drum to remove grime and mildew.
- Wipe dry with a clean cloth.
Clean the Filter:
- Remove the washing machine filter (usually located near the base) and rinse it with warm water.
- For tough debris, soak the filter in the salt-vinegar solution for 15 minutes before scrubbing it clean.
Rinse the Machine:
- After cleaning, run another hot water cycle to flush out any remaining salt and vinegar residue.
Additional Tips for Using Salt in Your Washing Machine
- Use Coarse Salt: If possible, opt for coarse sea salt or rock salt, as it’s more abrasive and effective for cleaning.
- Combine with Baking Soda: For deeper cleaning, mix 1/4 cup of salt with 1/4 cup of baking soda and sprinkle it in the drum before running a hot water cycle.
- Avoid Overuse: Excessive salt can corrode some metal components over time, so limit use to once or twice a month for cleaning the machine.
- Check Your User Manual: Ensure your machine is compatible with salt, especially if it has unique materials or a special coating on the drum.
