How to descale a Bosch washing machine

Step-by-step

1. 1

   Empty the washing drum

   Open the door and remove any clothes or items. Check the rubber seal for trapped objects.

2. 2

   Add descaling agent

   Pour 500ml commercial washing machine descaler (like Bosch's own brand) into the main wash compartment. Do not use the fabric softener dispenser.

   💡 Use only descalers designed for washing machines. Vinegar or citric acid can damage seals.

3. 3

   Run empty hot cycle

   Select the hottest wash cycle (60°C minimum) and start the machine. Let it complete the full cycle.

   💡 Do not add detergent. The descaler works alone.

4. 4

   Run second empty cycle

   Once finished, run a second hot wash cycle with just water to rinse out remaining descaler residue.

   💡 This prevents descaler smell on future washes.

5. 5

   Clean the detergent drawer

   Pull out the detergent dispenser drawer fully and rinse under running water to remove any limescale deposits.

   💡 Use an old toothbrush to scrub corners where scale accumulates.

6. 6

   Schedule regular descaling

   In hard water areas, descale every 3 months. In soft water areas, every 6 months is sufficient. Mark your calendar.

   💡 Hard water shows white residue on taps; soft water does not.

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