Last Updated on August 14, 2023
Maintaining a washing machine is essential to ensure it runs efficiently and effectively. Cleaning the drain hose is integral to this maintenance as a clogged or dirty hose can cause water to stay in the washer, creating unpleasant odors.
Now the concern is how to clean a washing machine drain hose without harming the machine.
You can use drain cleaner products specifically designed for clearing clogs in pipes. If there are obstructions in the drain hose, a long flexible tool can be inserted into the drain hose to remove them.
Alternatively, a high-pressure water spray is effective with a hose or pressure washer to blast debris away.
Following these ways, you can improve your laundry experience by keeping your washers running efficiently and free from foul odors. Let’s begin in detail.
Steps on How to Clean Drain Hose on Washing Machine
While cleaning a drain hose on the washing machine, you should know how to do it correctly and safely. Suppose you’re dealing with a clogged drain hose on your washing machine. In that case, there are several methods you can try to clean it out:
- Drain cleaner products
- Use a snake drain
- High-pressure water spray
- Vinegar and hot water solution
- Baking soda, vinegar, hot water solution
- Salt and water
Let’s see each cleaning method in more detail.
Method 01: Drain Cleaner Products
- To clean the drain hose on your washing machine, start by locating the discharge hose responsible for carrying both hot and cold water away from the machine. Once you’ve found it, mix and pour hot water and a mild drain cleaner into the drain pipes. This will help dissolve any residue and break down potential clogs.
- For better access, detach the hose from the drain pipe, allowing you to work more effectively in removing any buildup. Always follow the label instructions on the drain cleaner product, as different products may have specific usage and safety precautions guidelines.
- After using the drain cleaner, thoroughly rinse the hose and pipes with clean water to remove any residual cleaner and debris. This will ensure that your drain hose is clean and free from any blockages.
Method 02: Use a Snake Drain
Start by detaching the hose from the washing machine to gain access to the drain pipe. This will allow you to clean the drain hose on your washing machine effectively.
Here are five steps to using a snake drain for this task:
- Insert the drain snake into the drain pipe. The snake’s flexible design enables it to navigate through curves and obstacles within the pipe.
- Gently twist the drain snake while moving it further into the pipe. The snake’s textured surface helps grab and dislodge debris causing the clog.
- Repeat the twisting motion until you feel no more resistance or debris. This ensures that you’ve thoroughly cleared the clog.
- Carefully reattach the hose securely to prevent leaks after clearing the blockage.
- Take precautions to ensure your safety, such as wearing gloves and eye protection, as you work with the drain snake.
Method 03: High-Pressure Water Spray
Using a high-pressure water spray is an efficient way to clear blockages in the drain hose of your washing machine.
- This method involves attaching a drain hose to a high-pressure water spray nozzle.
- Once connected, insert the nozzle into the washing machine’s drain hose and spray high-pressure water to dislodge and remove clogs or blockages.
- The focused stream of water helps to break up and flush away any debris that may be causing the blockage. It is important to ensure the hose is reinstalled correctly after clearing the blockage to avoid leaks.
Method 04: Vinegar and Hot Water Solution
To clean the drain hose on your washing machine, follow these steps:
- Carefully combine 1 cup of vinegar and 2 cups of water in a solution. Boil the mixture for around 10 minutes.
- Pour the hot vinegar and water solution into the drain pipe. This powerful combination acts as an antibacterial and deodorizing agent, breaking down residue and potential clogs.
- Allow the solution to sit in the drain hose for about 30 minutes. This gives it enough time to penetrate and dissolve any grime or build-up.
- Flush the drain hose with hot water. This will help rinse away any remaining debris and ensure a thorough cleaning.
Method 05: Baking Soda, Vinegar, and Hot Water Solution
Try adding baking soda to enhance the vinegar and hot water solution for a more effective cleaning solution. Baking soda acts as a powerful agent that can help dissolve stubborn buildup and eliminate blockages in your drain hose.
- To prepare the solution, you have two options: either add baking soda to the boiling mixture or mix it with the solution before pouring it into the drain pipe.
- Once you have created the enhanced solution, it’s time to take action. Boil the solution and carefully pour it into the drain pipe. The combination of baking soda, vinegar, and hot water will work together to break down any buildup and remove blockages in your washing machine’s drain hose.
Method 06: Salt and Water
For an alternative cleaning method, try mixing salt and water to promote better drainage in your pipes. This simple solution can help break down grime and residue, ensuring your drain hose on the washing machine remains clean and functional.
Here’s how to do it:
- Start by combining 1-2 cups of salt with 2 cups of water in a pot.
- Boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes to ensure the salt dissolves completely.
- Slowly pour the boiled salt and water mixture into the drain pipe.
- The salt will work to break down any stubborn grime or residue clogging the hose.
- Allow the mixture to sit in the drain hose for a few minutes before rinsing it out with hot water.
How do you know if your washer drain hose is clogged?
The sound of the water pump turning on can alert one to a potential clog, which indicates that water has reached the pump but has nowhere to go. If there are signs of dirt or dust inside the hose, then it is likely that this material has created a blockage in some parts of the drainage system.
It is also possible that an outside object, such as a toy or sock, may have wedged itself within the hose and caused a stoppage.
Why is water staying in your washer drain hose?
If water stays in the washer drain hose after cleaning it, this could be due to a few different possible causes. The drain hose may be kinked, preventing it from draining properly. In some cases, the lid mechanism may be broken or may not engage fully, preventing draining.
An obstruction within the hose may block water from flowing out. If too much laundry is put into a single spin cycle, then this can cause water to remain in the drain hose.
Don’t Let Your Washing Machine Drain Hose Get Clogged
Now that you’ve learned the different methods to clean the drain hose on your washing machine, you can ensure its optimal performance.
The drain hose on a washing machine is an integral part of the home appliance and must be cleaned regularly to ensure proper function. Regularly maintaining and cleaning the drain hose can prevent clogs and blockages. These issues could lead to expensive repairs.
Remember to use the appropriate tools and cleaning solutions, and follow the steps carefully. With this knowledge, you can keep your washing machine running smoothly and enjoy clean and fresh laundry every time.