How to clean and maintain washing machine detergent drawer?

 

Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Detergent Drawer Matters

 

The detergent drawer of a washing machine is one of the most overlooked areas when it comes to appliance maintenance. Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, and mold buildup can accumulate, causing unpleasant odors and even affecting washing machine performance. Regular cleaning ensures that your appliance remains hygienic, efficient, and odor-free.

 

What You'll Need to Clean Your Detergent Drawer

 

• Mild dish soap or washing up liquid
• White vinegar or baking soda (optional, for tough stains and mold)
• An old toothbrush or small cleaning brush
• Soft microfiber cloth or sponge
• Warm water
• Bowl or bucket (optional)
• Rubber gloves (optional, for sensitive skin)

 

Step-by-Step Method for Cleaning the Washing Machine Detergent Drawer

 

Remove the Drawer from the Machine

Begin by pulling the detergent drawer out from your washing machine. Most machines allow you to fully remove the drawer by either pressing down on a small release tab or gently lifting and pulling it away from the washer; refer to your user manual if uncertain.

Soak Drawer in Warm Soapy Water

Submerge the drawer in a bowl or basin filled with warm, soapy water. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes to loosen dried detergent residue, fabric softener film, and molds.

Scrub Thoroughly Using a Brush

Dip the old toothbrush or small cleaning brush into the warm soapy water and thoroughly scrub inside the compartments of the detergent drawer. Pay special attention to corners, edges, and the siphon tubes. These are places where residues and mold frequently accumulate.

Use Vinegar or Baking Soda for Stubborn Deposits

If stubborn mold, grime, or hard water deposits persist, use white vinegar or baking soda mixed with water to form a paste or cleaning solution. Vinegar's acidity and baking soda's mild abrasiveness naturally break down residues. Leave the vinegar or baking soda paste on stubborn stains for about 10 minutes before washing thoroughly again.

Rinse Thoroughly with Clean Water

After cleaning, thoroughly rinse the entire detergent drawer under warm running water to remove any cleaning solution residues, mold particles, and detergent residue.

Clean Slot Inside the Washing Machine

While your drawer is drying, it's important to also clean the internal slot where the detergent drawer sits. Using your brush, microfiber cloth, or sponge soaked in warm soapy water, thoroughly clean the slot and surrounding areas inside the washing machine. Pay special attention to areas with visible mold or detergent buildup. Wipe these areas dry afterward, preventing molds from quickly returning.

Dry Drawer Completely Before Reinsertion

After rinsing, let the detergent drawer air dry fully. You can speed up the process by drying it carefully with a soft microfiber cloth to remove any excess water. Reinserting a damp drawer often encourages mold growth again.

Reinsert Drawer Properly

Once your drawer is thoroughly dry, slide it back securely into its original position within your washer. Make sure it is properly installed to avoid leaks or compromised usability during the wash cycle.

 

How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine Detergent Drawer?

 

Cleaning frequency depends on usage patterns, location, and humidity. Ideally, the detergent drawer should be checked and cleaned every four to eight weeks to maintain optimal hygiene and washing machine effectiveness. However, if you notice visible mold, residue buildup, or unpleasant odors sooner, don't hesitate to clean immediately. People in humid climates or using the machine frequently may find they need to perform this task more regularly.

 

Helpful Maintenance Tips

 

• Leave the detergent drawer slightly open after washing to prevent mold and odors—airflow is key to mold prevention.
• Avoid overfilling compartments with detergent or fabric softener, as excess residues encourage buildup.
• Consider using liquid detergents or pods, as powders can create more buildup and residue within the trays and compartments.
• Perform occasional 'empty' wash cycles at the hottest possible setting, using vinegar or specialized washing machine cleaner to flush out detergent residues internally.

 

When Professional Help is Needed

 

Sometimes, despite consistent home maintenance, your washing machine requires professional attention. If you experience recurring mold, leaks around the detergent drawer, or any unusual performance issues, it's wise to contact professional appliance service providers. Reputable companies like Hoffmann Brothers, serving areas such as St Louis and Nashville, can provide reliable appliance servicing to identify and fix such problems, ensuring your equipment continues running efficiently and safely.

Taking these proactive steps not only maintains cleanliness and improves performance of your washing machine appliance but also helps extend its lifespan.