We describe here how to use Tide washing machine cleaner, based on the directions on the box. Then, we go further. We write in the little tricks and tips we found while cleaning our high efficiency (HE) machine. These tips augment how well this washing machine cleaner product works.
How to Use Tide Washing Machine Cleaner: Cautions and Warnings
Only Deodorizes the Water Handling Parts
This product works well on the water handling components inside. These include the tub, water jets, pump interiors, the drain, and door seals.
But if foul odors stick around after regular cleaning, then your washing machine may be on the fritz. Indeed, there may be leaks in the piping system, causing water to collect beneath but never drying; a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. So a persistently smelly washing machine may require repairs. These odors due to mechanical failure are beyond the scope of this product to eliminate.
Tide Washing Machine Cleaner is Not for the CLEANING Cycle
Many of today’s HE washing machines have a special CLEAN cycle. But the Tide box says that it works best in the REGULAR WASH cycle. So use normal wash cycle and set water temperature to HOT. We further raise the effectiveness of this Tide cleaner, with the HEAVY DUTY button. This gives a longer wash time, and presumably, a better cleaning to boot.
Not a Laundry Soap
Do not put any clothes in the washing machine while cleaning it with this product. The Tide perfume scent could deposit on the clothes and so, might get too strong.
Tide Washing Machine Cleaner Instructions, Step by Step
Apply once per month. Then, leave the hatch door ajar when the machine is not in use.
For stubborn odors or visible dirt and growths, apply this product weekly for three weeks in a row. Then use once per month (maintenance mode).
To clean your washing machine with this cleaner, pour ONE pouch right into the machine’s tub. Do not put in the soap dispenser.
Then close and latch the door and run on REGULAR wash cycle, using HOT water.
To avoid frequent odor comeback, leave the door stand open between machine uses. This allows complete, quick drying of the tub, seals hoses, pumps, and other parts.
If you wash bleach loads, make them last in a washing session. Why? Because the little bit of bleach left in the washing machine after the last load remains for a time. Then, as long as you do not wash a load of clothes right away, it stays longer. That remainder kills many odor-producing bacteria and germs. Plus, the bleach prolongs the machine’s odor-free status from the last cleaning.
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References for Tide Washing Machine Cleaner Instructions
Revision History
- 2021-08-24: First published.