How to Remove Scum From a Washing Machine in the Outer Tub Above the Water Line

Cleaning

• 1

  Pour water into the liquid bleach dispenser. Run a regular wash cycle with an empty load to remove any traces of bleach that may interact with other cleaning agents.

• 2

  Sprinkle a generous amount of powdered oxalic acid cleanser onto a damp sponge. Gently rub the paste onto the stain. Do not scrub.

• 3

  Allow the paste to sit on the stain for several minutes.

• 4

  Wipe away the residue with a damp sponge. Rinse the sponge as needed. Excessive buildup may require several treatments.

• 5

  Run a hot or warm water rinse cycle. Stop the machine when the tub is filled. Use a sponge to wipe any remaining residue off the sides of the tub. Complete the cycle.

Preventative Measures

• 6

  Run an empty wash cycle with 1 cup of white distilled vinegar monthly to combat a soap scum buildup.

• 7

  Add 1/4 cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle of your regular wash instead of fabric softener. Vinegar is a natural fabric softener and will dissolve excess detergent in your washing machine.

• 8

  Mix one part white distilled vinegar to one part water in an empty spray bottle. Spray the mixture above the water line on the washer tub, and wipe it with a damp sponge to combat soap scum buildup. Repeat as needed.