Ever noticed your clothes coming out of the wash smelling less than fresh? Or spotted mysterious spots in your washing machine? It’s a sign your trusty appliance could use a good cleaning.
A dirty washing machine can lead to bad odors, buildup, and even less effective washes. Luckily, cleaning it is simpler than you might think.
In this article, you’ll find easy steps, helpful tips, and practical insights to keep your washing machine sparkling and your laundry fresher than ever.
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How to Clean a Washing Machine: A Complete Guide
A washing machine works hard to keep your clothes fresh and clean, but it also requires regular cleaning itself. Over time, detergent residues, fabric softeners, mineral deposits, and even mold or mildew can build up inside your washer. This not only leads to unpleasant odors but can also affect the washing machine’s performance and the cleanliness of your laundry. The good news? Cleaning your washing machine is simple and just takes a bit of your time.
Let’s walk through exactly how to clean your washing machine—whether it’s a top-loader or a front-loader—along with useful tips, best practices, and answers to common questions.
Why Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?
Many people are surprised to learn that their washing machine needs cleaning at all. After all, doesn’t it get clean every time it runs with soap and water? Not quite! Here’s why regular cleaning is important:
- Removes Build-Up: Detergent, fabric softener, and lint can accumulate, creating a sticky residue.
- Prevents Odors: Mold and mildew thrive in moist, dark environments—especially around rubber seals and inside the drum.
- Enhances Performance: A clean washer runs efficiently and can help your clothes come out cleaner.
- Prolongs Lifespan: Taking care of your washer means fewer breakdowns and repairs.
How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?
- Monthly: A deep clean is recommended once a month.
- More Often if Needed: If you notice foul smells, visible mold, or live in a hard water area, clean more frequently.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean a Washing Machine
What You’ll Need
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Microfiber cloth or sponge
- Old toothbrush
- Dish soap
- Optional: Commercial washing machine cleaner
- Gloves (if desired)
Step 1: Clean the Washer Drum
For Top-Loading Machines
- Set the Washer to the Hottest, Longest Cycle.
- Add Four Cups of White Vinegar directly into the drum.
- Let Agitate for a Minute, then Pause the Cycle. Allow the vinegar solution to soak for an hour.
- Resume the Cycle and Let it Finish.
- Add a Cup of Baking Soda to the drum and run a second hot cycle (no clothes).
- Wipe Down the Drum with a soft, damp cloth after the cycle is complete.
For Front-Loading Machines
- Add Two Cups of White Vinegar to the detergent dispenser.
- Run the Hottest, Longest Wash Cycle without clothes.
- Sprinkle Half a Cup of Baking Soda directly in the drum and run another hot cycle.
- Wipe the Drum and Door Gasket with a cloth after the cycles finish.
Step 2: Clean the Detergent Dispenser and Other Removable Parts
- Remove the Dispensers and soak them in warm, soapy water.
- Scrub Away Build-Up with an old toothbrush.
- Rinse and Dry thoroughly before placing them back.
Step 3: Clean the Door Seal/Gasket
Especially important for front-loaders, as the rubber seal is a mold magnet.
- Wipe Down the Gasket with a cloth soaked in a vinegar and water mixture.
- Use Your Fingers to Pull Back the Seal and clean hard-to-reach areas.
- Remove Debris, Hair, or Residue you find stuck inside the folds.
- Dry Thoroughly with a clean towel.
Step 4: Clean the Outside of the Machine
- Wipe All Surfaces, Knobs, and Doors with a damp, soapy cloth.
- Pay Attention to Buttons and Handles where grime collects.
- Dry Everything With a Clean Towel.
Step 5: Clean the Lint Filter (If Applicable)
Some washers have lint filters or drain pumps that need regular cleaning.
- Locate and Remove the Filter (check your machine’s manual if unsure).
- Rinse Under Running Water and scrub with an old toothbrush.
- Replace When Completely Dry.
Step 6: Deodorize and Final Touches
- Leave the Door or Lid Open: After cleaning, keep the washer open for several hours to air dry, preventing mildew.
- Check Hoses and Connections: Look for leaks, cracks, or buildup around hoses.
Natural Methods vs. Commercial Cleaners
- Vinegar and Baking Soda: Natural, budget-friendly, and effective for routine cleaning.
- Commercial Wash Cycle Cleaners: Convenient, powerful against tough odors and buildup. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions.
Best Tips for Keeping Your Washing Machine Clean
- Wipe Down Seals After Every Wash: Prevent moisture build-up and mold.
- Leave the Door Open: After each use, let air circulate inside.
- Use Proper Detergent: Choose high-efficiency (HE) detergent for HE machines; avoid overusing fabric softener.
- Run a Hot Cycle Periodically: Even without laundry, this helps flush out residue.
- Check for Forgotten Laundry: Wet clothing left inside can lead to mildew and smell.
Challenges and Solutions
Stubborn Stains or Odors:
Persistent mildew or limescale may require repeating the cleaning steps. For very tough jobs, a commercial washing machine cleaner might be your best bet.
Mold in Front-Loader Seals:
This is common due to trapped moisture. Wipe seals after every use and occasionally treat with an anti-mold solution.
Hard Water Areas:
Mineral deposits build up faster; consider cleaning more frequently and using a descaling agent as needed.
How to Clean the Washing Machine Filter
Some machines (especially European models or high-efficiency washers) have a filter accessible at the front bottom.
- Turn Off and Unplug the washing machine.
- Place a Towel or Tray beneath the filter area.
- Twist Open the Filter Cap carefully—water may spill out.
- Remove Debris—coins, lint, buttons—trapped inside.
- Rinse the Filter thoroughly and reinstall.
Maintaining a Clean Washing Machine
- Clean Monthly: Mark your calendar for a regular monthly clean.
- Empty Pockets: Prevent build-up by checking clothes for debris.
- Inspect Hoses: Replace if you see bulges, cracks, or leaks.
- Use the Right Amount of Detergent: Too much causes excessive suds and residue.
- Clean Immediately After Washing Heavily Soiled Items: Such as pet bedding, muddy clothes, or oily rags.
Benefits of Regular Washing Machine Cleaning
- Cleaner Laundry: No more mysterious stains or lingering smells on clothes.
- Longer Machine Life: Fewer costly repairs, smoother operation.
- Healthier Home: Less mold and bacteria means better air quality and safer laundry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I get rid of a persistent mildew smell in my washing machine?
Persistent odors are usually caused by a build-up of mold in hidden areas like the door gasket or within dispensers. Clean using vinegar and baking soda, paying special attention to the gasket and detergent trays. Leave doors open after each wash for thorough drying.
2. Can I use bleach to clean my washing machine?
Yes, bleach is effective at killing mold and mildew. Add 1 cup of bleach to the drum and run a hot, empty cycle. Never mix bleach and vinegar together, as this produces hazardous fumes, and always ventilate the space well.
3. How do I clean the washing machine if I have hard water?
Hard water leaves mineral deposits inside your washer. Clean monthly using white vinegar or a commercial descaler to remove limescale. If available, use water softeners or install a softening system to reduce build-up.
4. Do I need to clean both the inside and the outside of my washing machine?
Absolutely! Cleaning both prevents odor and residue build-up on the inside, while the exterior cleaning keeps your laundry area fresh and professional-looking, removing dust and detergent splashes.
5. Is there a difference between cleaning a front-load and a top-load washing machine?
Yes, front-loaders are more prone to mold growth in the gasket/seal and need extra attention to this area. Top-loaders are simpler but may have more accessible parts to scrub. The basic cleaning process—using hot water, vinegar, and baking soda—remains the same for both.
In Conclusion
Cleaning your washing machine regularly isn’t just about aesthetics or odor control—it’s crucial for its longevity and performance. A simple monthly deep clean keeps your clothes smelling fresh, your machine running smoothly, and your laundry area free from musty odors. With these easy steps and best practices, you’ll keep your washing machine (and your laundry) in top shape, wash after wash.