Washer & Dryer Maintenance & Cleaning Tips

July 22, 2021

Reviewed by Asya Biddle, Cleaning Services Professional & Owner of The Dust Busters, Williamsport, PAWritten by HomeAdvisor.

3 Washer & Dryer Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your washer and dryer is an important part of improving the safety and efficiency of your home. Here’s how to keep both in great shape:

Add a drip pan. Drip pans keep your flooring and washer safe from water damage. Clean your drip pan on a regular basis to ensure it stays in good shape.
Clean your lint trap. Use a snorkel brush to remove accumulation in your lint trap.
Clean your dryer vents. Disconnect your dryer duct and use a brush to clear out any lint accumulation.

P.S. Lint accumulation is a common source of home fires. Inspect your dryer on a regular basis to eliminate dangerous build up.

A dirty washing machine can cause unpleasant odors and leave your clothes unclean. Here’s how to keep your washing machine blemish free:

Run a cycle of bleach and hot water. Bleach will kill odor-causing bacteria and clean out your washing machine.
Use a natural cleaner. Mix two cups of white distilled vinegar, one-fourth cup of baking soda and one-fourth cup of water. Place your mixture in your washer and run a cycle.
Clean the seal. Use a wet rag to wipe down the rubber seal on your washer door.
Sterilize the soap dispenser. Remove and rinse your washer’s soap dispenser.