May Deep Clean: Washer & Dryer Edition
Doing a deep clean of your washer and dryer in May sets your laundry appliances up for peak performance during summer months when laundry loads often increase. Here's a focused May Deep Clean Guide for both your washer and dryer:
🧺 Front-Load Washing Machine Deep Clean
Weekly Maintenance Tip (if mold-prone):
Leave the door open after every load to prevent mildew.
Wipe down the rubber gasket with a cloth.
✅ Deep Clean Checklist
Run a Cleaning Cycle
Add ½ to 1 cup of bleach to the detergent tray.
Run the hottest and longest empty cycle (some washers have a “Tub Clean” cycle).
Clean the Rubber Gasket
Spray with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water).
Scrub gently with an old toothbrush.
Wipe dry with a clean towel.
Remove and Clean Detergent Drawer
Soak in hot water and scrub.
Let it air dry before replacing.
Wipe Down the Drum & Exterior
Use a damp microfiber cloth and mild cleaner or vinegar solution.
Clean behind and under the machine if possible.
✅ Dryer Deep Clean Checklist
Clean the Lint Trap Thoroughly
Remove lint screen and scrub with warm, soapy water.
Let it dry completely before reinserting.
Vacuum the Lint Trap Housing
Use a narrow vacuum attachment to remove lint below the screen.
Consider a dryer lint cleaning brush for deeper reach.
Clean the Drum
Wipe inside with a cloth dampened with a vinegar-water solution.
Dry with a clean towel.
Inspect & Clean Dryer Vent Hose
Disconnect the vent hose from the back of the dryer.
Vacuum out lint buildup from both the hose and the wall duct.
Reattach securely.
Clean Behind & Under the Dryer
Vacuum or sweep out dust, lint, and debris.
Check that the dryer is level and the vent isn’t crushed.
📅 Tip: Set a Reminder for Your Next Deep Clean
💡 Repeat every 3–4 months (August, November, February...)
⚠️ Safety Tips
Never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia, or other cleaners—this creates toxic gases.
Always ventilate the area when using bleach.
Wear gloves to protect your skin.
