Ever noticed a musty smell on your freshly “clean” laundry? Or maybe your washing machine doesn’t look as sparkling as it used to? You’re not alone in wondering how often you should actually be cleaning your washer.
Regular washing machine maintenance isn’t just about appearances—it’s key to keeping your clothes fresh, your machine running smoothly, and even saving money in the long term.
In this article, you’ll find the ideal cleaning frequency, clear step-by-step instructions, and practical tips for sparkling results every time.
Related Video
How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?
When it comes to keeping your laundry fresh and your appliances running smoothly, cleaning your washing machine is key. Though washing machines are designed to clean, they don’t clean themselves in the process. Over time, detergent residue, dirt, lint, and even mold or mildew can build up inside, affecting your laundry’s freshness and the efficiency of your machine.
So, how often should you clean your washing machine? The simple answer: You should give your washing machine a thorough cleaning at least once a month. If you use your machine heavily (several loads per week), you might want to clean it every other week. For lighter use, cleaning every 1-2 months may suffice. And don’t forget about those crucial, easy maintenance steps after every wash.
Let’s break down when, why, and how to clean your washing machine, and explore practical tips to make it effortless.
Why Regular Cleaning Matters
A washing machine is a warm, damp environment—the perfect place for bacteria, mildew, and mold to thrive. If you’ve ever opened your washer to a funky smell or seen mysterious gray stains on clothes, your washer is likely overdue for a clean. Here’s what regular cleaning can do for you:
- Remove soap scum and residue buildup.
- Prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Keep your laundry smelling fresh.
- Maintain the machine’s washing efficiency.
- Extend your washing machine’s life.
- Avoid costly repairs caused by clogs or buildup.
Signs Your Washing Machine Needs Cleaning
Knowing how often to clean is helpful, but watch for these signs, too:
- Unpleasant odors: Musty, mildewy, or sour smells are a sure sign mold or bacteria are present.
- Residue on clothes: If clothes come out with spots, gray marks, or lint, buildup is likely transferring.
- Visible grime: Check seals, dispensers, and the drum for scum, mold, or fuzz.
- Longer wash cycles: Buildup can make your machine work harder.
- Unusual noises: Excess debris can affect moving parts.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Washing Machine
Cleaning methods vary slightly between front-load and top-load machines, but the basics are similar. Follow these simple steps for a sparkling washer:
1. Gather Your Supplies
You don’t need anything fancy—just common household items:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- A microfiber cloth or sponge
- An old toothbrush
- Optional: Commercial washing machine cleaner
2. Clean the Dispensers
- Remove detergent, bleach, and fabric softener dispensers (if possible).
- Soak in warm, soapy water.
- Scrub with a brush or cloth to remove residue or mold.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly.
3. Wipe the Door Seal or Lid
- Front-load washers have a rubber gasket around the door; top-loaders have a rim under the lid.
- Wipe these areas with a cloth dipped in a solution of equal parts water and vinegar.
- Use a toothbrush for stubborn spots or mold in the crevices.
4. Clean the Drum
For Monthly Deep Cleaning:
- Pour 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of baking soda inside.
- Run the hottest, longest cycle with the washer empty.
- When the cycle is done, wipe the inside dry with a clean cloth.
Alternative: Use a washing machine cleaning tablet or cleaner following the instructions on the package.
5. Run an Extra Rinse Cycle
- To ensure all residue is cleared, run another hot rinse.
- Leave the door or lid open to let the interior dry.
6. Wipe Down Exterior and Buttons
- Use a soft cloth with mild soap or vinegar again.
- Wipe handles, knobs, and the machine’s exterior.
Cleaning Tips and Best Practices
Go beyond the basics with these expert-backed tips:
After Every Wash
- Leave the door or lid open to let the interior air dry—reducing moisture and preventing mildew.
- Remove wet laundry promptly to avoid sour smells.
- Check for visible lint or residue and remove it instantly.
- Wipe seals and dispensers dry with a towel.
Weekly or After Heavier Use
- Clean dispensers if you see grime or build-up forming.
- Wipe the drum and rubber seals more frequently if you live in a humid climate.
Monthly Deep-Clean
- Perform the full drum cleaning routine using vinegar and baking soda or a specialty cleaner.
- Inspect hoses and filters for lint, hair, or buildup.
Special Considerations for Front-Load vs. Top-Load Washers
Different machines have different needs:
Front-Load Washers
- Pay special attention to the rubber gasket around the door—it’s a hotspot for mildew.
- Always wipe down the door seal after use.
Top-Load Washers
- Open the detergent and bleach compartments regularly, as buildup can block flow.
- Clean the agitator (center post) and any removable pieces.
Top Benefits of a Clean Washing Machine
Keeping your washer fresh comes with several perks:
- Better-smelling laundry: No more musty or sour-smelling clothes.
- Less risk of mold and bacteria: Protects your family from allergens.
- Lower maintenance and repair costs: Clean machines last longer.
- Improved energy efficiency: A clean washer doesn’t have to work as hard.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Tough Stains or Odors They Keep Coming Back
- Use more vinegar or repeat the cleaning cycle.
- Leave the door open as much as possible.
- Cut back on detergent use—excess can build up quickly.
Mold in Hard-to-Reach Areas
- Use an old toothbrush dipped in vinegar to scrub crevices.
- Dry all areas thoroughly after each use.
Detergent Residue
- Switch to high-efficiency (HE) detergent if you have an HE machine.
- Use only the recommended amount of detergent.
Practical Advice for Busy Households
- Set a recurring reminder on your calendar for monthly cleanings.
- Assign “quick wipe down” tasks to family members after laundry day.
- If you forget, don’t worry—just resume monthly cleaning and do quick wipe-downs when possible.
Summary
Your washing machine works hard to keep your clothes clean, but it needs regular care to stay at its best. Monthly cleaning (or every few weeks for heavy users) helps eliminate odors, prevent mold, and extend the life of your machine. Simple steps like wiping seals dry, leaving doors open, and running a hot cycle with vinegar and baking soda can make all the difference. With a little routine maintenance, your washer—and laundry—will stay sparkling fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I clean my washing machine if I have a large family?
If your machine runs almost daily—think more than five loads per week—clean it every two weeks. More frequent maintenance may be needed to keep buildup at bay.
Can I use bleach instead of vinegar to clean my washing machine?
Yes. Bleach is effective for disinfecting and removing mold. Use about one cup of bleach in the drum, run a hot cycle, and follow with a rinse cycle. Avoid combining bleach and vinegar or mixing bleach with other cleaners.
Is it necessary to buy commercial washing machine cleaners, or is vinegar and baking soda enough?
Vinegar and baking soda are safe, effective, and budget-friendly for most homes. However, commercial cleaners are specifically formulated and can be more effective against persistent odors or buildup. Both options work; use what’s convenient for you.
What if I have a persistent mildew smell after cleaning my washer?
Check and clean the door seal, dispensers, and drain filter thoroughly. Repeat the cleaning process, leave the machine open to dry, and ensure you’re not using too much detergent. Sometimes, a second deep clean is needed for stubborn smells.
How can I prevent my washing machine from getting dirty quickly?
– Always remove wet clothes soon after washing.
– Wipe the drum and seals dry after each load.
– Use the right type and amount of detergent.
– Leave the door or lid open in between washes.
Regular upkeep and occasional deep cleaning will help keep your washing machine, and your laundry, in top condition!