How to remove stains from my carpet?

Do not scrub the stained area, only blot with a clean towel. Should you inadvertently cause a stain it is vital that you don’t start attempting to remove it yourself with every carpet cleaning product under the sun. It’s even more crucial that you don’t start scrubbing it like there’s no tomorrow. While your efforts are well-meant, they will very likely do a lot more harm than good. Scrubbing at stains usually only serves to embed them more deeply into the fabric or carpet and distort the pile. It is al about chemistry and fibre type. Meanwhile, the use of different chemicals and solutions to attempt to remove the stain is unlikely to work, and will result in a noxious concoction of harsh substances and clashing cleaning products stewing together and making removal of the stain even harder. Supermarket stain removal products often make it worse. There aren’t any domestic cleaning products that are effective at removing truly stubborn stains like red wine, coffee or tea, and pet urine stains. Attempting to do it without professional advice and help, is almost certainly going to exacerbate the problem. Keep calm! Before you do anything, give us a call and let us know what you’re dealing with. Our team of experts will be able to advise you on the best course of action, and we will create a tailored approach to the problem depending on the exact nature of the stain, and the specific item it is covering. For example, removing stains from carpets isn’t quite the same as removing stains from upholstery, mattresses or even rugs. We will be able to determine the best course of action and carry it out for you. We will be happy to offer you Free no obligation advice. Here at Cleaner Cleaner we have a consistently proven track record for excellent results and service. Our customer feedback is shining with praise and is second to none. We pride ourselves in delivering the personal touch and a bespoke solution to your particular needs. We use the most modern carpet stain removal technology, and are conscious that our methods are ecologically friendly, and completely safe for you, your family, and your pets. If you’re looking for carpet stain removal experts in London and the Home Counties, look no further. Give us a call now! We’d be delighted to help…

How much it will cost to get my carpets cleaned?

Our London carpet cleaning services come at an affordable price.Customers can choose between three different levels of service. Silver, is our budget option great for end of tenancy carpet cleaning. Gold is our deluxe service and is homeowner’s favourite with lots of perks and bursting with value. Platinum is our ultimate service. You can choose what is best for you. It is truly affordable to everyone!

Is your end of tenancy cleaning service 100% Guaranteed?

Our service is 100% guaranteed! We will help you recover your rental deposit! The checkout report often takes longer than 2-3 days to produce, and get sent to you. That is why our service is 100% guaranteed for 7 Days! We will return Free of charge if needed! Let's help you get your deposit back

Is oven cleaning included?

Professional oven cleaning is included in our after rental service, as well as professional cleaning of all other appliances : washing machine, extractor fan, fridge, freezer, dishwasher.

Is professional cleaning required at the end of tenancy?

When a tenant moves out of a rented property common perception is that they need to have the property professionally cleaned in order to get their deposit back. As of June 2019 this is no longer the case. Tenants are not obliged to hire professional end of tenancy cleaners, and instead can have the property cleaned themselves. The problem is, attempting this with little knowledge of what and how to clean to the standard that inventory clerks expect when inspecting, leads to a failed inventory, unnecessary hassle, and hefty deductions from the deposit. At Cleaner Cleaner we have over 12 years experience providing stress free moving out cleaning services, helping tenants in London recover their rental deposit with ease.

Ultimate Guide: How to Clean Your Washing Machine

A clean washing machine is crucial for having spotless clothes and a fresh-smelling home. It’s easy to forget, but the very appliance doing your laundry can become a haven for grime, detergent residue, limescale, and mould. This buildup not only causes unpleasant odours but also significantly impacts the appliance’s performance. Drawing on years of professional cleaning experience, we’ll share our top tips to keep your washing machine in pristine condition.

Table of Contents

Signs Your Washing Machine Needs Cleaning

It’s easy to overlook cleaning the appliance that cleans everything else, but your washing machine often gives clear signals when it’s crying out for attention. Watch out for these common indicators:

A musty or sour smell coming from the drum, even when empty.
Clothes are not smelling fresh after a wash cycle, or even carrying a faint, unpleasant odour.
Visible mould or a slimy film around the rubber door seal, particularly in front-loaders.
Slow drainage or standing water left in the drum after a cycle.
Noticeable residue or buildup in the detergent drawer.

If you’ve spotted any of these signs, it’s a strong indication that a deep clean is overdue.

Check also: How Often Should You Clean Your Fridge?

How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?

This largely depends on its usage and household size. We recommend a quick monthly clean for surface grime and a thorough deep clean every two to three months. High-usage households or those in areas with hard water may benefit from more frequent deep cleans. Regular maintenance, including simple empty hot washes, is crucial to extending your machine’s lifespan and maintaining its optimal performance.

You can add a few drops of your favourite essential oil to the baking soda for a fresh-smelling and clean washing machine.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin your washing machine cleaning mission, gathering your supplies will make the process smooth and efficient. The good news is, you likely already have most of these essential items on hand:

White vinegar: An excellent natural cleaner and deodoriser.
Baking soda: Works wonders to neutralise odours and gently scrub.
Microfiber cloths or a sponge: For wiping down surfaces.
Old toothbrush: Ideal for tackling tight spaces and scrubbing stubborn grime.
Bleach: Use it for mould or mildew stains. Alternatively, you can get a commercial washing machine cleaner.

What’s Better for Cleaning a Washing Machine: Bleach or Vinegar?

The choice between bleach and vinegar depends on the problem. Vinegar is acidic, making it excellent for dissolving limescale, banishing odours, and maintaining cleanliness. Bleach, a more potent disinfectant, is more effective against severe mould and mildew, especially in neglected machines. Always exercise caution when using bleach and refer to your washer’s manual for specific compatibility information. For routine cleaning and freshness, we usually recommend vinegar for its versatility and mildness.

A clean washing machine drum means no hard water deposits, thus ensuring a longer appliance life.

Can I Run My Washing Machine Empty to Clean it?

You might wonder, “Can I simply run an empty cycle to clean my washer?” And the answer is yes! An empty hot cycle is a fantastic way to refresh the drum and flush out some minor residues. However, for a truly effective clean that addresses all the hidden nooks and crannies where grime and mould love to hide, you’ll need to go a bit further than just an empty cycle.

Check also: 7 Ways for Dealing with Mould at Home

Using the hot water cycle guarantees better results when deep cleaning your washing machine.

How to Deep Clean Your Washing Machine

Our washing machines, while efficient, have a few particular areas that demand special attention, primarily the rubber door seal.

Clean the Seal

The rubber gasket around the appliance door traps moisture, hair, lint, and detergent residue, creating an ideal breeding ground for mould and mildew. Dampen a microfiber cloth with cleaning vinegar and wipe down the seal meticulously, pulling back the folds to reach any hidden grime. Use an old toothbrush to scrub away any stubborn mould or black spots. Once clean, dry the seal thoroughly with a clean towel to prevent future mould growth.

Run a Cleaning Cycle with Vinegar*

With the door seal addressed, turn your attention to the drum itself. Ensure the drum is empty of any laundry. Pour 2 cups of white distilled vinegar into the detergent drawer or directly into the drum. Set your machine to the hottest and longest wash cycle available. This hot vinegar wash will help to dissolve soap scum, limescale, and other internal residues, while also neutralising any lingering odours.

Run a Second Cycle with Baking Soda*

Once the vinegar cycle has completed, add half a cup of baking soda into the drum. Run another hot cycle, ideally a shorter one if your machine offers that option. The baking soda helps neutralise odours, lifts any remaining grime, and leaves the drum sparkling clean.

*If you need to clean your appliance with bleach you can skip these steps and simply run an empty hot cycle with bleach added into the detergent drawer.

Wipe the Interior and Exterior

Finally, take a clean, damp microfiber cloth and wipe down the inside of the drum, around the door, and all external surfaces of the machine, including the control panel, knobs, and display. This not only makes your machine look spotless but also removes any residual cleaning agents.

The detergent drawer often accumulates detergent buildup and can develop unpleasant odours if not cleaned regularly.

Take Care of the Detergent Drawer

The detergent drawer often accumulates sticky detergent and fabric softener residue, leading to blockages and odours. If removable, take it out and soak it in warm, soapy water to loosen gunk. Use an old toothbrush to scrub all compartments thoroughly, then rinse them well. This simple step prevents incorrect detergent dispensing and keeps your machine smelling fresh.

Clean the Filter

The filter (or drain pump filter) catches lint and small items. If clogged, it can cause poor drainage and odours. Consult your manual to locate it (often at the bottom front). Have a tray and towel ready, as some water may come out. Carefully remove any debris. Wipe the filter and its housing clean, ensuring no lint remains. Securely reattach it. Cleaning this every few months significantly improves efficiency and prevents unpleasant odours.

Leaving the door open when the appliance is not in use will keep your washing machine free of mould, mildew, and unpleasant smells.

How to Keep Your Washing Machine Clean

Prevention is always better than the cure, and adopting a few simple habits can drastically reduce the need for intensive cleaning. Follow these tips to maintain a clean and fresh washing machine:

Leave the door ajar: After every wash, leave the appliance door open to allow air to circulate. This helps the drum and seals dry completely, effectively preventing mould and mildew growth.
Use the correct detergent amount: More isn’t always better. Using too much detergent creates excessive suds and leaves behind a sticky residue that attracts dirt and can clog your machine. Always consult your detergent’s instructions and your machine’s manual for the correct dosage.
Remove clothes promptly: Don’t leave damp laundry sitting in the drum. This creates a humid environment perfect for mildew to flourish, quickly transferring that musty smell to both your machine and your clothes.
Run a monthly maintenance wash: Run an empty cycle with one cup of white vinegar on the hottest temperature setting available. This helps flush out internal components, keeping them free from limescale and detergent buildup.
Wipe seals and drawers regularly: Make it a habit to wipe down the door seal and detergent drawer with a damp cloth every few washes. This simple action prevents grime from accumulating in these common problem areas.

These small, consistent steps will help you maintain a clean, efficient, and odour-free washing machine.

Avoid leaving your clean clothes in the washing machine after laundering them, as this can lead to mould and unpleasant odours.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common pitfalls that can hinder your washing machine cleaning efforts or even contribute to the problem. Be sure to avoid these frequent mistakes:

Ignoring the rubber door seal: This area is a prime spot for mould and grime. Simply wiping it occasionally isn’t enough; it needs regular, thorough cleaning to prevent insidious black mould from taking hold.
Skipping regular maintenance cycles: It’s a common misconception that washing clothes is enough to keep the machine clean. Without those hot washes and cleaning agent cycles, limescale and soap scum will inevitably accumulate.
Always using cold water: While energy-efficient, consistently using only cold water can contribute to the buildup of residue and bacterial growth.

Don’t Hesitate to Call Us If You Need to Make Your Home Shine

At Cleaner Cleaner, we pride ourselves on providing professional advice and practical, effective cleaning tips, all thanks to our extensive experience in home cleaning. We know what genuinely works, saving you both effort and money in the long run. If you need a reliable partner for more intensive cleaning tasks – whether it’s deep carpet cleaning, refreshing your upholstery, sanitising your mattresses, or even professional end-of-tenancy cleaning – please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help make your home impeccably clean, from top to bottom.