I’ve been using my top-loading washing machine for about seven years now. I can’t recall the brand or color, but I do know that I do several loads a week, ever since it was delivered by a somewhat sweaty, grumpy delivery guy. Truth be told, I haven’t given much thought to this appliance.
Now, I know some of you may be rolling your eyes, thinking, “Typical guy—writing about washing machines without a clue.” But let’s be clear: I handle the laundry in our household. I have a complicated relationship with washing, drying, and especially folding clothes, which culminates in the dreaded task of putting everything away. So yes, I think about laundry quite a bit, but the washing machine itself? It’s mostly just a box I hope holds up for a few more years since I’m not looking to shell out for a new one.
When I stumbled upon an article in Southern Living about deep cleaning your washing machine, it hit me that I might have been ignoring that little white box more than I realized. Here’s my confession: I can’t recall ever doing a thorough deep clean on my washing machine, at least not to the extent outlined in that Southern Living piece. I’ve run vinegar through it, wiped off the exterior when it got dusty, and even done a hot cycle with vinegar when it started smelling a bit funky. But I’ve never disassembled anything, looked inside, or scrubbed it down properly.
As I ponder this, I realize I might be in for a surprise. The author of that article also admitted to never deep cleaning their washing machine, which gives me some comfort in knowing I’m not alone in this neglect. They described encountering mold and pet hair, and I can’t help but wonder what might be lurking inside my own washer.
How to Deep Clean Your Washing Machine
If you’re curious about how to deep clean your washing machine, here’s a straightforward guide. It’s not as daunting as it sounds. Start by cleaning the detergent and softener drawer, which is usually removable. You can scrub it in the sink or even spray it down with a garden hose, similar to how I clean our car seats. Don’t forget to wipe down the gasket with a cloth and some vinegar—make sure you do this in a well-ventilated area. I know ventilation can be tricky in laundry rooms, but it’s important for your safety.
Additionally, clean the door’s interior and the machine’s exterior. If your washer has a filter, give that a cleaning too. It’s recommended to clean that every two months—let’s not dwell on that since I’m clearly not following that guideline.
Cleaning your washing machine can extend its lifespan, which is always a plus. While some folks might relish the idea of shopping for new appliances, I’d rather save my money for my kids’ activities. Plus, with children or pets, the “gross factor” of what’s being washed only increases. I mean, my preteen could be wearing something akin to napkin pants, if you catch my drift.
To those who claim to clean their washing machines religiously and look down on those who don’t, good for you! But for the rest of us, let’s acknowledge that if you’ve never deep cleaned your washer, I’m not here to judge. This is merely a gentle reminder.
Additional Resources
If you’re interested in more tips and tricks for home fertility, check out this post on Home Insemination Kit. Also, for more information on at-home insemination, Make a Mom is a great resource. Lastly, if you’re curious about the first steps in IUI, Parents offers excellent insights.
Summary
In this light-hearted reflection, the author shares their surprising realization about the importance of cleaning the washing machine. Despite the mundane nature of laundry, maintaining the appliance is essential for its longevity and effectiveness, especially in homes with children and pets. The article encourages readers to consider their washing machine’s cleanliness, whether they’ve kept up with regular maintenance or not.
Keyphrase: washing machine cleaning tips
Tags: [“home insemination kit”, “home insemination syringe”, “self insemination”]