Like all other household appliances, the washing machine also needs to be cleaned regularly so that it can deliver its 100%. Especially if it is in use almost every day.
bluu tells you how to clean your washing machine properly and what to look out for when caring for it.
If you don't clean your washing machine regularly and take care of it properly, you will sooner or later encounter the following problems:
- The machine and the freshly washed laundry start to smell.
- Germs and bacteria settle in.
- Limescale builds up.
- Energy consumption is increased.
- The service life of the machine decreases.
These tips will get your washing machine clean again:
1. empty the lint filter
Clothes fibers and lint, microplastics and other small items get stuck in the filter. These need to be removed over time so that the water can be pumped out properly.
- Where: The fluff filter is usually located on the left or right under the porthole of your machine. How to open it varies depending on the brand, so it's best to check the operating instructions.
- How: Remove the filter and rinse under running water with your hands. If necessary, help with a microfiber cloth.
- When: If washed daily, about once a month. Otherwise, every three to four months should be sufficient.
2. clean the rubber seal
In addition to fluff and hair, water also collects in the rubber seal. The constant moisture can lead to mold growth and in turn to unpleasant odors.
- How to do it: Carefully remove hair and other residues from the rubber seal with a cloth. You can use a little vinegar or citric acid for this.
- When: Once a month for daily washing.

3. descaling the washing machine
Most anti-limescale agents on the market are chemical and pollute the environment. The household remedy vinegar can also attack the rubber seals.
Try our calcbusters instead. The small pre-dosed pads are packaged in a cellulose envelope and dissolve completely.
You can find more information about calcbusters in this blog.
What else can you look out for in addition to proper machine cleaning? We have more tips for proper machine care.
- Leave the machine door open after every wash cycle. This allows the drum and the rubber seal to dry optimally.
- Do not use too much detergent. This will not only leave residues in the machine, but also on your clothes.
- Do not overload the washing machine. Rule of thumb: a hand's width of space should be left at the top of the drum.
- Buy the right detergent. Many detergents contain microplastics and preservatives that lead to deposits. The washing strips from bluu are easily biodegradable and not only protect the environment, but also your machine. Try them out now.
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Avoid fabric softeners. They contain animal fats, which cause bacteria to build up in the drum and on your clothes.
You can find more tips on washing and care on our blog.