How do I clean a used washing machine?

Question

I was given a three year old washing machine and would like to clean it before I use it. I am thinking of doing one "empty" wash with white vinegar, and maybe one with a more aggressive product to kill bacterias and clean the pipe further. Any advice on what to use?

Answer 1

try a product called CLR works pretty good

Answer 2

Trust me on this, white vinegar is the best. It is tough enough to do the job at hand but mild enough not to damage the washing machine. I clean my washing machine after every 10 or so washes with vinagar and it works like a charm every time.

Answer 3

Was it sitting in a shed? Or was it in use until they gave it to you?
If it was in storage, I would take it to the self service car wash and wash it inside & out. Let it sit in your truck or garage overnight to dry.
Then run a load with Hot Water & bleach to kill any bacteria or mold that may be in there.
If you want to run a cycle with vinegar, that may take out any remaining smells.

Answer 4

I don't know what your problem is with it, you don't mention but, I'm wondering what could be that dirty in a washing machine. Do you mean it has something in it? like tar, does it smell or ?
Use soap and water to wipe it down and toss In a batch of Levies or something dark and let it rip.

Answer 5

your right on track with white vinegar to kill the bacteria. Then lime away to desolve the mineral deposits. You may have to do this process several times to clean it good.

Answer 6

CLR for sure