How to Descale Washing Machine?

Living in a location that has hard water creates a lot of problems. It is true that you could solve this problem for drinking water by using a water purifier, but when it comes to washing machines and other things that require tap water, there is little you can do. A new washing machine would work correctly for a few months, but after that, the performance would go down. Once the scaling process affects your washing machine, the clothes would come out ashen. If you are seeing this problem in your washed clothes, then your washing machine has developed scaling. Now, you might be wondering how to descale the washing machine. This guide would help you solve this issue and get your washing machine back to its original state.

How Does Scaling Occur in a Washing Machine?

Scaling can occur in a washing machine due to two main reasons. The primary reason is hard water, which contains excess minerals such as calcium. As the washing machine is used regularly, the calcium gets deposited on the surface of the drum, and scaling occurs. Another reason behind scaling is excess of soap. Many times, soap doesn’t get drained properly and gets deposited on the drum, and over time, it accumulates and causes scaling.

How to Descale Washing Machine?

Knowing how to descale a washing machine would help you a lot. The primary reason is it would increase the life cycle of your washing machine and help you keep your clothes clean. Now, instead of doing it yourself, you could always call an expert. However, they charge a lot for what is a simple process, and you need to wait for a while before you get a visit from them.

Washing Machine Descaling Myths

Often times, technicians tell new customers not to perform the descaling process themselves. It might be because you get a few free services, but mostly it is done so that they could charge a customer for doing this job. Another common misconception is that using hot water for washing will reduce the scaling process. It does the opposite as washing machines that are run with hot water end up developing scales a lot faster than a washing machine using normal water. There are also cases where using an excessive amount of soap in the washing machine accelerates the scaling process.

How to Descale Washing Machine?

The primary advice that is given on how to descale the washing machine is by using a descaling powder that is available in the market. You need to add the descaling powder as if it was detergent, i.e., in the detergent tray. Now, run the machine on a long wash cycle, preferably with warm water for an hour. Once done, drain the washing machine completely. Now, you need to add normal detergent and run the washing machine regularly for thirty minutes to clean it properly. In case the results are not satisfactory, you could also use a light scrubber to clean the drum of your washing machine. Another practice that slows down the scaling process is running the washing machine with plain water once you have washed all your clothes for the day.

How to Descale Washing Machine Naturally?

Another question that is often asked is How to Descale Washing Machine naturally. Two of the most used household items for descaling washing machines are vinegar and baking powder. Vinegar is beneficial as it helps in killing the mold. Vinegar is acidic, and thus, it helps in removing the residual soap that builds up over time. It also removes the lime deposits in the pipes, which is a huge problem in areas with hard water. You should use white vinegar to clean your washing machine. Baking soda is excellent at removing soap sum and deodorizing the washing machine.

How to Descale Washing Machine with Vinegar and Baking Soda?

1. Set your washing machine to run on the hot water setting for an hour. Do not add anything during this step except a few drops of vinegar. Let your washing machine run for a few minutes to allow the vinegar to mix properly.
2. In the next step, you need to add about half a cup of baking soda to the washing machine. Run the washing machine for a few minutes again to mix the baking soda.
3. Now, let it all rest for an hour or so. During this process, you could use a cloth dipped in vinegar to wipe the drum to clean those hard to reach places.
4. You should also clean the knobs and other parts of the machine, such as the soap tray. Use an old toothbrush for a better result.
5. Once you are done with the cleaning, allow the washing machine to run the remaining cycle. Once the water is drained hand all the vinegar and baking powder mixture is out, use a water-soaked sponge to wipe the drum gently.

By following the steps mentioned above, you would not only increase the life span of your washing machine but also save a lot of money spent on regular services. For the best results, descale your washing machine once every couple of months.

Washing Machine Descaling FAQs

Is There A Separate Way to Descale A Top-Load And A Front-Load Washing Machine?

No, both the top-loading and the front-loading washing machines could be descaled by using the same methods.

What Is the Best Way to Remove Limescale From My Washing Machine?

A solution of vinegar and baking soda works perfectly for this kind of scale. Add them to the water and run the washing machine for an hour cycle. For best results, use a sponge to clean the washing machine once the cycle is completed.

How Often Should A Machine Be Descaled?

The ideal interval to descale a machine is about a couple of months. However, it depends on how often the washing machine is used.

How to Use Descaling Powder for The Washing Machine?

The most recommended way to clean a washing machine with descaling powder is to add one pack of the powder and run to the washing machine for an hour.

Should I Use Coke to Remove The Scale?

Technically speaking, coke works as an excellent descaler. However, you should use either a descaling powder or vinegar for descaling the washing machine.