Grease lice in your washing machine? Here’s how to get rid of them!
|
|
Time to read 3 min
Your washing machine stinks? This is a problem that many households have to deal with. One of the most common causes of this unpleasant smell is grease lice. A harmless but annoying problem. In this article we will discuss what grease lice exactly are, how you can recognize them and, above all, how you can combat them.
Contents
What is grease lice? How do you recognize grease lice in your washing machine? Causes of grease lice How do you get rid of grease lice? 1. Clean the detergent drawer 2. Check the rubber seal 3. Run an empty wash at the highest temperature 4. Use baking soda 5. Regular maintenance Shop the products from this article You might also like these blogs!
What is grease lice?
Grease lice is a collection of grease, soap residue, mold and bacteria that builds up in your washing machine. It is usually caused by using detergents that do not dissolve completely. This happens especially at low temperatures. When these residues build up, they can cause an unpleasant odor that can affect your clothes and the washing machine itself. So if your washing machine stinks, you have a good chance of having grease lice!
How do you recognize grease lice in your washing machine?
There are several signs that may indicate that you are dealing with grease lice. Here are some common symptoms:
- Your washing machine stinks : A pungent, musty odor that lingers on your laundry is a clear indication.
- Visual buildup : Visible residue of grease or mold in the rubber seal of the door or in the detergent drawer.
- Longer drying times : Clothes that take longer to dry could also be a sign of buildup.
@washok.nl This is probably the dirtiest washing machine you've ever seen🤢 #washok #thelaundrystory #cleaning #cleantok #dirtiestoftiktok #washingmachineclean #fyp #foryou #asmr ♬ original sound - nicole
Causes of grease lice
There are several factors that can contribute to the formation of grease lice in your washing machine:
- Too much detergent : Using too much detergent can leave behind residue.
- Low temperature washing : Washing at low temperatures often leads to insufficient cleaning of the machine.
- Humidity : A humid environment can promote the growth of mold and bacteria.
How do you get rid of grease lice?
Fortunately, there are several effective ways to combat grease lice and get your washing machine fresh again. Here are some steps you can follow:
1. Clean the detergent drawer
Start by removing the detergent drawer. Clean it thoroughly with warm water and a soft brush to remove all residue. If necessary, use a mixture of all-purpose cleaner and water to remove stubborn residue.
2. Check the rubber seal
The rubber seal around the washing machine door is a collection point for dirt and mold. Wipe it thoroughly with a cloth and a mixture of water and vinegar. Make sure to clean the corners and crevices as well.
3. Run an empty wash at the highest temperature
An empty wash with just white vinegar or a specially formulated washing machine cleaner can help remove grease lice. Set your washing machine to the highest temperature and run a full cycle. This will help remove residue and sanitize your machine.
@washok.nl Why a boil wash should be part of your routine? Melanie explains it in our latest video! #fy #fyp #cleanhouse#cleaningtips #cleantok #cleaning #lifehacks #cleaningtips #HouseholdTips #cleaninghacks ♬ Life Will Be - Cleo Sol
4. Use baking soda
Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that can help remove odors and grease. Add a cup of baking soda to your empty washing machine and run another cycle on high heat.
5. Regular maintenance
Prevention is better than cure. To prevent the build-up of grease lice, it is important to perform regular maintenance on your washing machine. Here are some tips:
- Wash regularly at higher temperatures to remove soap and grease residues.
- Use the correct type and amount of detergent .
- Leave the washing machine door open after use to allow moisture to evaporate.
- Wipe the rubber regularly to remove any soap residue.
- Clean the filter of your washing machine once a month.
Grease lice in your washing machine can be an annoying problem, especially if your washing machine smells. With the right knowledge and maintenance, you can easily combat grease lice. By regularly cleaning your washing machine and taking good care of your equipment, you can prevent unpleasant odors and build-up. Follow the steps in this article to make your washing machine fresh and odor-free again.
Do you have any questions or tips? Let us know in the comments!