Say Goodbye To Funky Washer Smells: How To Clean Your Amana Washer Without Affresh

Maintaining a clean and efficient Amana washer is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. While Affresh is a popular cleaning solution, it’s not always readily available or affordable. Fortunately, there are effective ways to clean your Amana washer without using Affresh.

Cleaning the Exterior

Materials:

• Soft cloth
• Mild dish soap
• Water

Steps:

1. Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply.
2. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth dipped in a mild dish soap solution.
3. Rinse the cloth and wipe down the surface again to remove soap residue.
4. Dry the exterior thoroughly with a clean cloth.

Cleaning the Interior

Materials:

• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Bleach (optional)

Steps:

1. Vinegar and Baking Soda: Add 2 cups of white vinegar to the bleach dispenser and 1 cup of baking soda to the drum. Run a hot water cycle without clothes. This will help remove mold, mildew, and odors.
2. Bleach (Optional): If desired, add 1 cup of bleach to the bleach dispenser and run another hot water cycle. This will further disinfect the washer.

Cleaning the Bleach Dispenser

Materials:

• Old toothbrush
• White vinegar

Steps:

1. Remove the bleach dispenser from the washer.
2. Use an old toothbrush to scrub away any buildup inside the dispenser.
3. Fill the dispenser with white vinegar and let it sit for 30 minutes.
4. Rinse the dispenser thoroughly with water and replace it in the washer.

Cleaning the Drain Pump

Materials:

• Screwdriver
• Towels
• Bucket

Steps:

1. Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply.
2. Locate the drain pump at the bottom of the washer.
3. Use a screwdriver to remove the access panel.
4. Place towels and a bucket under the drain pump to catch any water.
5. Remove the drain pump and clean any debris from the impeller.
6. Reinstall the drain pump and access panel.

Cleaning the Detergent Dispenser

Materials:

• Hot water
• White vinegar

Steps:

1. Remove the detergent dispenser from the washer.
2. Soak the dispenser in hot water for 30 minutes.
3. Use a soft cloth to wipe away any buildup.
4. Rinse the dispenser with white vinegar and then with water.
5. Replace the detergent dispenser in the washer.

Cleaning the Filter (if applicable)

Materials:

• Filter removal tool
• Water

Steps:

1. Locate the filter at the bottom of the washer, usually behind a small access panel.
2. Use a filter removal tool to remove the filter.
3. Rinse the filter thoroughly with water.
4. Reinstall the filter and access panel.

Preventing Future Buildup

• Run a hot water cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar every month to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Leave the washer door open after use to allow it to air out.
• Clean the detergent dispenser regularly to prevent buildup.
• Use the correct amount of detergent for each load.

Wrapping Up: Maintaining a Pristine Amana Washer

By following these simple steps, you can effectively clean your Amana washer without using Affresh. Regular cleaning will ensure optimal performance, reduce the risk of odors, and extend the life of your appliance. Remember to prevent future buildup by adopting the tips mentioned above. A clean and well-maintained washer will provide you with sparkling clean clothes for years to come.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Can I use bleach to clean the entire washer?
A: Yes, you can add 1 cup of bleach to the bleach dispenser and run a hot water cycle. However, avoid using bleach too frequently, as it can damage the washer’s components over time.

Q: How often should I clean my Amana washer?
A: It’s recommended to clean the washer every 1-2 months to prevent buildup and maintain optimal performance.

Q: What should I do if my washer has a persistent odor?
A: Try running a hot water cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar and 1 cup of baking soda. This will help eliminate odors and freshen the washer. If the odor persists, consider contacting a qualified appliance repair technician.