Dirty Appliances May Be Making Your Family Sick

If appliances are not cleaned properly and regularly, it not only affects their lifespan but may also quietly threaten your family’s health. Washing machines and refrigerators are among the most commonly overlooked appliances, yet both require routine cleaning. Housekeeping expert Mary-Ann Chen shared practical tips with The Epoch Times for cleaning appliances—large and small—easily and thoroughly.

Washing Machines

Washing machines may seem inherently clean because they wash clothes every day, but the outer rim of the inner tub is notoriously dirty, Chen said. During the drainage process, detergent and lint can cling to the outer wall, creating a favorable environment for mold and bacteria in warm, humid conditions. If either of the following situations occurs, your washing machine may need attention:

1. Small black spots appear on clothing after washing, indicating that dirt has accumulated to the point of peeling off and adhering to clothes.
2. Clothes feel itchy and uncomfortable after washing, especially for people with sensitive skin.

Specialized washing machine cleaning powders are available for this purpose. For machines that have never undergone targeted cleaning, Chen recommends starting with once a month. After that, switch to about once every other month for maintenance, but never wait more than three months between cleanings.

After cleaning, if only a small amount of lint appears, you can simply wipe it off. If there is a large amount of black lint, place an old towel inside and run another cycle so the towel can absorb any remaining dirt. Remember to open the machine door after each wash to improve ventilation and reduce mold growth.

Refrigerators

The dirtiest part of the refrigerator is often the door handle. Handles are touched repeatedly throughout the day, yet are frequently overlooked during cleaning, Chen said. For example, if a child opens the refrigerator with dirty hands, or if someone touches the handle after handling raw meat, germs can remain on the surface. It is recommended to wipe the refrigerator door handle regularly with alcohol to reduce the risk of germ transmission.

How food is stored also affects the cleanliness of the refrigerator. Consider the following:

• Store Food in Sealed Containers: Keep opened food in airtight containers or resealable bags to prevent odor mixing and cross-contamination.
• Separate Raw and Cooked Foods: Store raw and cooked items separately, and never place raw food above cooked food to prevent contamination from dripping.
• Avoid Storing Easily Perishable Items Near the Door: Because the refrigerator door has a higher and more fluctuating temperature, avoid storing dairy products and eggs there. Reserve this area for temperature-stable sauces or frequently used items.

Ovens and Air Fryers

Ovens and air fryers are among the most difficult appliances to clean because they contain heating elements and cannot be washed directly with water. Chen suggests spraying detergent onto paper towels and applying them to greasy areas on the inner walls for several minutes—like “applying a face mask”—to soften the grease buildup. Once softened, the grease wipes away easily.

Disassemble removable parts regularly for cleaning before reinstalling them to prevent long-term grease accumulation. If parts are very dirty, consider replacing them. Many brands also offer specialized air fryer cleaning services that include disassembly and thorough cleaning of the appliance.

Rice Cookers and Microwave Ovens

A common issue with rice cookers is a white, hazy layer on the exterior of the pot—limescale, a mineral deposit that forms when water evaporates. The best way to remove limescale is to add about two tablespoons of citric acid to the rice cooker, fill it about three-quarters full with water, bring it to a boil, and allow it to soak. After soaking, scrub with a brush and dry thoroughly to prevent mineral residue from returning. If the rice cooker is dirty due to spills, clean it promptly with dishwashing liquid. Never let spilled food air-dry; otherwise, another layer of limescale will form.

Microwave ovens often become greasy and dirty from splattered food during heating. To clean a microwave oven, place citrus peels inside and heat for about one minute. The steam and essential oils will help soften the grease. Then wipe the interior with a paper towel to clean and deodorize. Food should be covered when microwaved to prevent splattering, Chen said.

Dehumidifiers and Air Conditioners

The filter is the most important component to clean in dehumidifiers and air conditioners. However, avoid rinsing or scrubbing the filter directly at first, as this can damage its fiber structure. Because of the filter’s fine material, water pressure can push dust deeper into the crevices. The correct way is to first remove dust with a dry brush or vacuum cleaner, then rinse gently with water and allow it to air-dry completely. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, which may cause plastic components to degrade over time.

4 Precautions for Cleaning Home Appliances

A few simple safety measures can help protect both your appliances and your household while you clean.

• Dry Wipe Surfaces: Use a dry cloth to remove dust from appliance casings. Avoid using water or a damp cloth, which can cause moisture to seep into crevices.
• Read Instruction Manuals Carefully: Review the manual before cleaning unfamiliar appliances to avoid damaging components.
• Unplug Appliance Before Cleaning: Disconnect power to reduce the risk of electric shock.
• Avoid Harsh Cleaning Agents on Casings: Some cleaning agents may not be compatible with plastic and can cause cracking or discoloration.

With proper care and routine cleaning, most appliances can serve your household well for many years.