In today’s fast-paced world, most of us rely on our washing machines to handle the bulk of our laundry chores. They save us a ton of time and effort, allowing us to focus on work, family, and everything else life throws at us. However, while these machines do a fantastic job keeping our clothes clean, not everyone realizes they need a little care and maintenance themselves.
No matter how expensive or advanced your washing machine is, over time it’s going to collect dirt, grime, and even harmful bacteria. If you’re not cleaning your machine regularly, your clothes might come out less than fresh—and in some cases, even smell worse than they did going in. The good news? There’s a simple trick that can make cleaning your washing machine way easier. It’s a hidden switch, and when you use it, dirty water will drain right out. Once you learn about it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t know sooner.
Most people don’t give much thought to cleaning their washing machines. After all, it’s the machine that cleans for us, right? But like any appliance that deals with dirt and moisture, washing machines can develop all sorts of buildup. Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, lint, and debris accumulate in different parts of the machine, especially in places we can’t see. And if you’re not cleaning those areas, they become the perfect environment for mold, bacteria, and bad smells. Experts recommend giving your machine a deep clean at least three times a month to keep it running efficiently and ensure your clothes come out as fresh and clean as they should. But the problem is, many people aren’t aware of how to properly clean their washers. That’s where this little-known feature comes in handy.
Most washing machines have a hidden switch that can help you release dirty water and prevent it from stagnating inside the machine. This switch is usually found in the lower right or left corner of the washing machine. At first glance, you might not even notice it’s there because it’s tucked away behind a small cover that blends into the machine’s exterior. To open it, all you need is a coin. Simply use the coin to pry open the small lid, and you’ll immediately see dirty water start to drain out. This is water that’s been sitting inside the machine’s drainage system and can be a major source of bad odors and bacteria if left unchecked.
Draining this water is a crucial part of washing machine maintenance that many people overlook. It’s a simple step that takes just a few minutes but can make a big difference in how your machine performs. Once you’ve opened the hidden compartment and let the dirty water drain out completely, it’s also a good idea to give the area a quick wipe to remove any remaining grime or residue.
But don’t stop there. Another part of the washing machine that needs regular cleaning is the rectangular filter box located inside the drum. This filter is designed to catch lint, hair, and other small debris during the wash cycle. Over time, if this filter isn’t cleaned regularly, it gets clogged. When that happens, not only does it reduce the efficiency of the wash cycle, but it can also cause your clothes to come out dirty or covered in lint. Some people don’t even realize their machine has this filter because it’s not immediately visible. But if you take a closer look inside the drum, you’ll usually find it on the side or near the bottom.
To keep things running smoothly, it’s recommended that you remove the filter box once a week and give it a thorough cleaning. Just pop it out, rinse it under running water, and scrub away any buildup. Make sure it’s dry before placing it back in the machine. By keeping this filter clean, you’ll notice a big difference in how well your washing machine works and how fresh your laundry smells.
In conclusion, keeping your washing machine clean doesn’t have to be a complicated chore. With a little attention and these simple steps—using the hidden switch to drain dirty water and regularly cleaning the filter box—you can maintain your machine in top condition. Not only will it last longer, but your clothes will be cleaner, fresher, and free of odors. So, the next time you do laundry, take a few extra minutes to give your machine the care it deserves. You’ll be glad you did.
