How To Clean the Basket of a GE Washer

Cleaning your GE Washer’s basket may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little bit of time, you can keep your washer running smoothly and efficiently. Not only does regular cleaning prevent unpleasant odors and buildup, but it also prolongs the lifespan of your appliance. In this in-depth guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following tools and products:

1. Liquid bleach, vinegar, or a washing machine cleaner like Glisten Washer Magic or Tide Washing Machine Cleaner.
2. A pair of gloves to protect your hands from any harsh chemicals.

Remember to read and follow the instructions on any cleaning products you’re using to ensure safe and effective usage.

The Cleaning Process

Here’s how to clean the basket of your GE Washer:

1. Remove any garments or objects from the washer and ensure the washer basket is empty.
2. Open the washer lid and pour one cup (or 250 ml) of your chosen cleaning product into the basket.
3. Close the lid and select the Basket Clean cycle.
4. Push the Start button.

During the Basket Clean cycle, the display will show the estimated cycle time remaining. It’s essential not to interrupt the cycle, as this could impact the cleaning process. If there’s a power outage or the cycle is interrupted in any way, ensure you run a complete Basket Clean cycle before using the washer again.

Once the cycle is complete, leave the door open slightly to allow for ventilation. This helps prevent the growth of mold or mildew inside the washer.

Frequency of Cleaning

To maintain optimal performance and prevent odors, it is recommended to clean the washer tub once per month or every 30 cycles. However, the frequency may vary depending on factors like usage, water hardness, and the presence of odors or visible dirt. If you notice any mold or mildew odors, detergent residue, or slow draining, it might be time to clean your washer basket.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes while cleaning your washer:

1. Not cleaning regularly: Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of laundry soils, detergent, and hard water minerals, which can affect the efficiency of your washing machine.
2. Keeping the door closed: After a cycle, leave the door open slightly to allow for ventilation and prevent mold and bacteria.
3. Using too much detergent: Follow your appliance manual’s detergent recommendations.
4. Overloading the drum: Overloading can result in less effective cleaning and unnecessary damage to your laundry.
5. Ignoring the lint filter: Regularly clean the lint filter to prevent lint build-up on your clothes and in the machine.

Safety Precautions

When cleaning your washer, take the following safety precautions:

1. Wear protective gear.
2. Ensure the area is well-ventilated.
3. Avoid mixing different cleaning products together.
4. Keep cleaning products out of the reach of children and pets.
5. Clean up spills immediately to avoid slipping or other accidents.

By following these steps and precautions, you’ll be able to clean your GE Washer’s basket effectively and efficiently. Regular cleaning not only maintains the performance and efficiency of your washer but also extends its lifespan, saving you money on potential replacement costs.