Gather Necessary Supplies
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Warm water
- A soft brush or old toothbrush
- A clean cloth
- Measuring cup
- Gloves (optional, for skin protection)
Prepare a Cleaning Solution
- Combine one cup of white vinegar with two cups of warm water in a container.
- Add one to two tablespoons of baking soda for extra cleaning power. Note that the mixture will fizz.
- Stir gently to mix the ingredients.
Inspect the Source of Detergent Buildup
- Examine parts of your washing machine or laundry area where detergent buildup accumulates (e.g., detergent dispensers, rubber gaskets, and seals).
- Identify the severity of the buildup.
- Spot areas that need extra attention.
Manual Cleaning of Affected Areas
- Dampen a soft brush or toothbrush with the cleaning solution.
- Scrub gently over the areas with visible detergent buildup, ensuring you work into crevices.
- If buildup is especially stubborn, dip your cloth in the solution and apply it to the affected area. Let it sit for several minutes before scrubbing.
- Repeat the process as necessary for areas with heavy residue.
Deep Clean the Entire Area
- If cleaning a washing machine, run an empty cycle on the hottest setting with the vinegar solution. This helps loosen any residue inside the drum and internal parts.
- For detergent dispensers or removable parts, consider soaking them in the cleaning solution for 20–30 minutes and then scrubbing thoroughly with the brush.
- Ensure that all removed detergent and grime go down the drain by rinsing with plain water.
Dry and Inspect
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- Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down cleaned surfaces thoroughly.
- Allow the area to air dry or use a towel to speed up the process.
- Inspect for any remaining residue and repeat the cleaning steps if needed.
Prevent Future Buildup
- Use the recommended amount of detergent to avoid excess residue.
- Regularly clean your washing machine or laundry area with a vinegar solution.
- Run periodic maintenance cycles with hot water and vinegar to keep buildup at bay.
- Keep dispensers and seals dry between uses to discourage detergent residue accumulation.
