How To Get Grease & Oil Out Of A Washing Machine
Things Needed
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Baking soda
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Sponge
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Toothbrush
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Clean cloths
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1 cup white vinegar
Washing machines come in contact with many types of dirt and grime. Although most of the dirt washes away with the wash and rinse water, heavily grease-stained clothes can leave grease and oil residue behind. When an oily film is left inside the washing machine, you must remove it to prevent the grease from transferring to the next load of laundry. Grease-cutting cleansers appropriate for metal surfaces handle this task, leaving your wash machine clean and ready for the next load of wash.
Step 1
Wet a sponge and sprinkle baking soda on it. Scrub the inside of the washing machine to scour away the grease and oil. Frequently rinse off the sponge and apply more baking soda to continue scrubbing.
Step 2
Clean tight spaces and the grooves and holes in the sides of the washing machine with an old toothbrush. Use baking soda sprinkled on the toothbrush to break down grease in these spots as well.
Step 3
Wipe the inside of the washing machine with a damp cloth to remove baking soda and grease residue. Dry the metal surface with clean, dry cloths.
Step 4
Swipe your finger over the surface of the inside of the wash machine to see if it still feels greasy. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 if the grease residue still feels heavy.
Step 5
Run the washing machine on a full cycle with hot water. Add 1 cup white vinegar to the wash cycle to remove any last traces of grease and oil and clean out the inner areas of the washing machine. Leave the door open after the cycle is finished so the surface can air dry.
Tip
Remove grease and oil from the surface of clothing before laundering. Blot the grease off with paper towels and apply a grease-cutting stain remover to avoid leaving greasy residue inside the wash machine.
Absorb excess grease and oil from clothing by covering the stain with an absorbent such as baking soda or baby powder.