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2. Soak the Drawer
Once removed, soak the drawer in hot water for 10-15 minutes. This will help loosen up any detergent build-up, soap scum, or mold growth. If the drawer is particularly dirty or moldy, add a bit of white vinegar to the water. The vinegar’s acidity will help break down the gunk and kill the mold spores.
3. Scrub the Drawer
After soaking, grab your old toothbrush and dip it into a mixture of baking soda and water (a paste-like consistency works best). Use the toothbrush to scrub all parts of the drawer, especially the corners and crevices where mold and detergent residue often hide. The baking soda will help to scrub away grime without damaging the plastic or metal.
If there are stubborn mold spots, apply a bit of hydrogen peroxide directly to the affected areas. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing. Hydrogen peroxide works wonders for killing mold and mildew.
4. Clean the Drawer Slot
While the drawer is soaking, don’t forget about the slot where the drawer sits! This area can accumulate soap scum and mold as well. Use a microfiber cloth or an old rag to wipe down the slot. You can dip it in a mixture of vinegar and water or just use straight vinegar for extra disinfecting power. Scrub and wipe the edges to ensure you’re removing all residue and moisture.
5. Rinse and Dry
Once you’ve finished scrubbing, rinse the drawer thoroughly under warm running water to remove any leftover residue or cleaning solution. Be sure to dry the drawer completely with a towel or microfiber cloth to prevent moisture from lingering, which could lead to new mold growth.
6. Reassemble and Leave Open
Finally, once the drawer is clean and dry, reinsert it into the washing machine. As a preventative measure, leave the drawer slightly open between washes to allow for airflow and to prevent moisture from building up inside. This will help to keep mold and mildew from returning.
Additional Tips for Preventing Mold and Grime in the Future
- Clean Regularly: To keep your washing machine drawer clean and fresh, give it a quick clean every month. Regular maintenance will keep mold and soap scum from building up.
- Use the Right Amount of Detergent: Using too much detergent can leave a residue behind, leading to build-up in the drawer. Follow the recommended detergent measurements for your machine.
- Leave the Door Open: After each wash, leave the washing machine door slightly ajar to allow air circulation, which will help to dry out any moisture inside the drum and the drawer.
- Wipe the Drawer After Every Use: After each laundry load, give the drawer a quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth to remove excess moisture and detergent.
Why This Trick Works
- Baking Soda: Baking soda is a gentle yet effective abrasive that helps scrub away build-up and mold without damaging surfaces. It also deodorizes and freshens.
- Vinegar: White vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer. It breaks down soap scum, kills mold, and neutralizes any bad odors.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful mold killer and can help to target stubborn stains and mold spots effectively.
Conclusion
Cleaning your washing machine drawer doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By using simple, natural ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide, you can restore your drawer to its pristine condition without harsh chemicals. This genius trick will not only remove mold and grime but also prevent it from coming back. Regular maintenance will keep your washing machine functioning properly and your laundry smelling fresh. Try it out, and you’ll be amazed at how easy and effective it is to keep your washing machine drawer sparkling clean!
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