dryer Archives - Leslie Helen

I recently started following the @gocleanco Instagram account and the first reel I saw was on how to clean your front-loading washer when it is covered in mold and smelled bad. It was disgusting what they were showing, but it got me curious enough to go check my own washer. And sure enough, it was disgusting too. This led me to search my house for where else I wasn’t cleaning and should be. Here are my top 4 places that we should be cleaning and probably aren’t, plus my tried and true go-to cleaning methods.

1. Dishwasher

How to Clean a Dishwasher

This is probably my most used appliance and one that I definitely can’t live without. You would think that this appliance should be self-cleaning since its purpose is to clean your dishes. But it can get pretty nasty if not cleaned regularly.

When not in use, keep the door ajar to allow for air circulation to prevent bad smells from forming.
Most dishwasher models have filters at the bottom. It’s important to clean it out monthly to make sure your washer continues to run efficiently.

inside dirty dishwasher sprinkled being cleaned with baking soda

Check for residue or food scraps around the door seal. Sprinkle some baking soda around the bottom of the seal and spray it with some vinegar (I have a spray bottle filled with vinegar). Leave on a few minutes and wipe away the grime.

Use a dishwasher cleaner. I used one by the brand Affresh. The result is a sparkly clean dishwasher!

2. Front Loading Washer

How to Clean a Front Loading Washer

Like the dishwasher, you may be thinking what is there to clean? The front-loaders are known for being susceptible to mold if not given a chance to dry between uses. Pull back the rubber seal around the door and look for any blackish residue.

When not in use, keep the door open to prevent mold or mildew buildup and that moldy smell.
Check the seal area for any debris and gunk, and remove. Liberally sprinkle baking soda around the seal, then using a spray bottle filled with vinegar, spray the baking soda to activate it. Leave on for 10 minutes and wipe down using a microfiber cloth. Remove as much of the clumpy baking soda as possible before moving to the next step.

cleaning with baking soda inside a dirty washing machine

If the baking soda wasn’t strong enough to get rid of the gunk and mold, try using either bleach or Concrobium.
Remove the detergent dispenser, and check for mold and grime. Srub with soap and water in the sink. Dry completely before replacing. To sustain a cleaner dispenser, switch to using powder detergent that you place directly in the tub before adding your clothes. You can read up on why powder detergent is better in this post on making Sustainable Life Choices.

While the detergent dispenser is removed, clean the area inside the washer where the dispenser sits. I used a damp microfiber cloth.

Clean out the filter. My washer has a filter that you access behind a flap below the door. Check your washer’s manual for steps on how to remove and clean the filter. Don’t have the manual, try Google or YouTube.

After all the above steps are complete and components put back in place, add a washer cleaner to the tub and use the Clean or Sanitize settings. I used one by the brand Affresh. The results are a fresh smelling, clean shinny tub!

inside a clean front loading washing machine

3. Dryer

How to Clean a Dryer

Clean the lint trap. This one is probably the easiest to maintain and the one you should be cleaning after every load of laundry. A clogged / dirty filter is one of the leading causes of dryer fires or electrical problems.

Remove the lint trap and look down into the dryer where the trap usually sits. If you see lint build up in that area it is time to clean this are out. I use the hose on my vacuum to suck out the lint.

4. Bathroom Ceiling Fans

How to Clean Bathroom Ceiling Fans

Go into your bathroom and lookup. What is the state of your air vent? I have 3 bathrooms in my house and all three had varying degrees of dirty vents. My powder room wasn’t too bad but I still gave it a cleaning. The 3-pc baths vents both needed a deeper cleaning.

Use a vacuum wand to remove the dust from the outside of the vent.

If the vent is in a bathroom with a shower, the lint will likely be more difficult to remove from being exposed to moisture. This was the case with my vent. I removed the vent cover and remove as much of the lint as possible with a microfiber cloth and/or cleaning toothbrush. Then wash in a sink filled with hot soapy water. Dry completely before replacing.

While the vent cover is removed, vacuum or remove any dust trapped inside the vent.

Now reassemble and admire your hard work!

All done! After completing these 4 deep cleanings you will feel good about your cleaning efforts! You deserve a nice cold drink! I personally love ice tea.

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