3 Best LG Washing Machine Drum Cleaners

The "Drum Clean" program enables self-cleaning of the washing machine. Simply press the appropriate button, empty the drum, and add detergent. The latter is crucial, as specialized cleaning products are required to properly clean the washing machine. To quickly and permanently remove dirt, limescale, mold, and odors, choose effective cleaning products for your LG washing machine's drum. Let's explore the formulas and brands involved.

Factory chemicals

To clean your washing machine, it's best to purchase a special cleaning product. You can find them at any store, and there's a wide selection: cheap and expensive, liquid and dry, scented and unscented. It is important to evaluate the cleaner holistically, examining its composition, action and volume. A brief overview of the three most popular brands will help you make your choice.

• Beckmann. This German-made all-purpose cleaner is based on citric acid, glycerin, non-ionic surfactants, and activated carbon. Available in gel and powder form, it removes limescale, dirt, and odors even in hard-to-reach areas. Its antibacterial properties also make it a pleasant addition. Regular use extends the life of your washing machine, as special components protect rubber and metal parts from hardening and corrosion. Prices range from $1.80 to $4 for 250 ml.
• Tiret. A comprehensive liquid washing machine cleaner. Effective in neutralizing unpleasant odors and removing limescale, scale, and soap scum. It also ensures hygienic cleanliness by flushing the interior of the machine of all types of dirt. Contains citric acid, non-ionic surfactants, and a fragrance. The fragrance leaves the washing machine smelling pleasantly of lemon after cleaning. Price: $2.10 for 250 ml.
• Bosch. A washing machine cleaner from a well-known brand that makes large household appliances. This powder removes soap scum and limescale, as well as dirt and odors. Price for 200 g starts at $4.90.

Before using any professional cleaning products, be sure to read the instructions on the back of the packaging. The manufacturer provides the ingredients, dosage, and instructions for adding the product to the machine. Don't forget about your own safety – wear gloves during the procedure and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

Home remedies

A budget-friendly alternative to professional cleaning products are folk remedies like vinegar, citric acid, and bleach. They're readily available, cost pennies, and fight stains just as well as expensive brands. The main thing is to calculate the dosage correctly and follow the instructions.

• Citric acid. Simply pour the citric acid into the main compartment of the washer and run a high-temperature cycle with maximum spin. The amount of powder depends on the capacity of the machine: for a 3-4 kg drum, 100-150 g will be sufficient; for a 5 kg or larger drum, 200 g; for a 7 kg or larger drum, 250 g.
• Vinegar. To clean your washing machine with acetic acid, pour about 250 ml of a 9% solution into the main wash cycle. Then, heat the water to 90 degrees Celsius (194 degrees Fahrenheit), and after 15-20 minutes, pause the cycle for an hour. During this time, the essence will dissolve limescale and disinfect the drum. The cycle then continues.

After cleaning with vinegar, you need to ventilate the machine - leave the hatch and powder compartment open for several hours!

• Bleach. You'll need 250 ml of 0.5% bleach. Pour it into the detergent dispenser, then run the wash cycle at 30-40 degrees Celsius. Avoid raising the temperature, as hot water will cause the bleach to lose its effectiveness.

After cleaning, it's recommended to run a second rinse. If there's still detergent left on the drum walls, you'll need to run the cycle again without the detergent. Remember that if aggressive substances come into contact with your laundry during the next wash, it will be harmful to the fabric.

Keep the drum clean

Despite constant exposure to hard water, dirty laundry, and dust, the drum can remain relatively clean. To achieve this, it's important to remember preventative maintenance—constantly monitoring the drum's condition. Generally, the following operating rules for your LG washing machine are sufficient:

• Once every 7-10 days, “run” the machine with hot water (turning on any high-temperature mode);
• once every 1-2 weeks, wash the tray to remove any undissolved powder;
• After each use, wipe the drum and hatch cuff dry;
• After finishing washing, leave the machine open (open the hatch, pull out the powder compartment);
• use only high-quality detergents;
• After use, run an empty wash cycle to flush the mechanisms of the detergent;
• Add water softeners to wash hard water.

A thorough cleaning of your washing machine is recommended every 6-12 months. Before cleaning, drain the drum, clean the drain, and rinse the drawer, seal, and door glass.

   

Readers' comments