As we age, we often become more attuned to the cleanliness of our homes, with a particular focus on those areas that can affect our health. But there's one household appliance that even the most meticulous among us might overlook: the humble washing machine. It's easy to assume that the machine responsible for cleaning our clothes is, by default, clean itself. However, a recent TikTok video has revealed a rather unsettling truth that might just change the way you think about your laundry routine.

The video, posted by a cleaner named Tonya, has taken the internet by storm, showing a front loader washing machine in the midst of a cleaning cycle. But instead of clear water, the machine is filled with murky, brown liquid. 'And this right here is why you need to clean your washing machine,' Tonya explains in the clip. Despite the filter being clean, the water's discoloration during the self-clean cycle—which lasted four hours—was a shocking revelation.


The video has not only gone viral but has sparked a flurry of comments and discussions. Some viewers were surprised to learn that washing machines even had filters, while others boasted about their regular cleaning habits. 'The filter?? Oh my. Where do I find the filter?' one viewer asked, highlighting a common gap in knowledge. Another viewer was surprised: 'Washing machines have a filter?' In contrast, a more informed commenter noted, 'Do people not read manuals? It says to run a clean cycle every so many loads, wipe down the door/seal after use and leave the door open.'


This eye-opening video has also reignited the age-old debate between front loader and top loader washing machines. Some viewers were quick to blame the type of machine for the dirty water, with one person commenting, 'Another reason to not own a front load.' However, the truth is that both types of machines require regular cleaning and maintenance. Front loaders, in particular, have a seal around the door that can trap moisture and lead to mold and grime buildup if not properly dried and left open after use.


The conversation around this TikTok serves as a reminder that reading the manual for your appliances is more than just a formality—it's a crucial step in understanding how to maintain them. Regular cleaning of your washing machine not only ensures that your clothes come out fresh but also extends the life of the appliance and prevents the growth of mold and bacteria.

For our members who might be wondering how to keep their washing machines in tip-top shape, here are a few tips:

1. Check and clean the filter regularly, as trapped debris can cause odors and affect the machine's performance.
2. Run a hot wash cycle with a washing machine cleaner or a simple home mixture of vinegar and baking soda to sanitize the drum and remove any detergent buildup.
3. Wipe down the door seal after each use and leave the door ajar to allow the machine to air out and prevent mold.
4. For top loaders, it's also important to clean the fabric softener dispenser and the top of the wash bin.


Remember, a clean washing machine is not just about aesthetics—it's about health and efficiency. So next time you're doing your household chores, don't forget to give your washing machine the attention it deserves.
We'd love to hear from you, our savvy seniors, about your own washing machine maintenance routines. Have you ever encountered a similar situation to the one in Tonya's video? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below, and let's help each other keep our homes clean and healthy!