Ever noticed your clothes don’t smell as fresh as they used to, even after a wash? You’re not alone—thousands have turned to Reddit for advice on cleaning their washing machines. All those cycles can leave behind grime and odors, making regular cleaning surprisingly essential.
In this article, we’ll share the top-rated methods straight from Reddit users, including step-by-step instructions and clever tips. Get ready to keep your laundry—and your machine—truly clean!
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How to Clean Your Washing Machine: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’ve ever opened your washing machine and noticed musty smells or seen grime around the seal, you’re not alone. Many people—especially those chatting on places like Reddit and community forums—wonder why their clothes end up less than fresh. Cleaning your washing machine is an essential step in keeping your laundry smelling great and your machine running smoothly.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know to get your machine sparkling clean and keep it that way!
Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Matters
Washing machines tackle some pretty dirty jobs. Over time, detergent, fabric softener, minerals, and even dirt from your clothes can build up inside the machine. This buildup can cause:
- Unpleasant odors that transfer to your clothes
- Residue on laundry, leaving spots or making clothes feel less clean
- Reduced efficiency, leading to higher energy bills and longer wash times
- Mold and mildew growth, especially in front-loading machines
A clean washer not only extends the life of your appliance but also ensures your clothes come out cleaner and fresher.
Types of Washing Machines: Front-Loading vs. Top-Loading
Before diving into cleaning techniques, it helps to know what type of washer you have:
- Front-loading machines are more likely to develop musty odors because water can get trapped in the rubber gasket.
- Top-loading machines can accumulate grime underneath the agitator and around the rim.
Each style needs a similar approach, but there are a few key differences you’ll want to keep in mind.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Your Washing Machine
Regular cleaning can prevent odors and keep your machine performing its best. Here’s a breakdown of how to tackle both front-loaders and top-loaders.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
You don’t need anything fancy! Most people use:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- A soft scrub brush or old toothbrush
- Microfiber cloth
- Mild dish soap (optional)
You can also use commercial washing machine cleaning tablets if you prefer.
Step 2: Clean the Gasket, Dispensers, and Door (Front-Loaders)
Front-loaders have a rubber gasket around the door, which is a favorite hiding place for grime.
- Open the door wide.
- Carefully pull back the gasket. Check for hair, coins, or trapped debris and remove it.
- Make a cleaning solution using equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Dip a cloth or scrub brush in the solution. Wipe around and under the gasket.
- Use a toothbrush for stubborn mold or mildew stains.
- Wipe dry with a clean cloth.
Don’t forget to clean detergent and fabric softener dispensers! Remove them if possible and soak in hot, soapy water, then scrub and rinse.
Step 3: Clean the Drum
Whether you have a front- or top-loader, cleaning the drum is essential:
For both machine types:
- Empty the washing machine.
- Sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda directly inside the drum.
- Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the detergent drawer or directly into the drum.
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Run the hottest, longest wash cycle.
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If your machine has a ‘self-clean’ or ‘tub clean’ setting, use it!
- The baking soda and vinegar work together to eliminate odors and dissolve buildup.
Step 4: Wipe Down Surfaces
While the cycle runs, wipe the outside and inside of your machine:
- Use a damp cloth and a bit of mild dish soap to clean the control panel, lid, and exterior surfaces.
- Open up the lid or door and clean around the rim where detergent and grime can collect.
Step 5: Clean the Filter and Drain Pump (As Needed)
Many front-loaders (and some top-loaders) have a small filter or lint trap you can access near the bottom front panel.
- Unplug the machine.
- Open the panel.
- Remove the filter.
- Clear out lint, coins, or other debris.
- Rinse the filter with hot water.
Check your machine’s manual for specific instructions.
Step 6: Air It Out
After cleaning, it’s essential to let the washer dry:
- Leave the door or lid open for several hours (or overnight). This step helps prevent mold and mildew from forming again.
How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?
A good rule of thumb:
- Quick wipe-down: After every wash (especially for front-loaders)
- Complete interior cleaning: Once a month, or more often if you notice odors or use the machine a lot
- Filter cleaning: Every 1–3 months, depending on use
Regular upkeep prevents most common washing machine issues.
Troubleshooting Common Washing Machine Problems
People often ask on forums and social media why their cleaning methods aren’t working. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:
My Washer Still Smells After Cleaning
- Try running a second cleaning cycle with vinegar and baking soda.
- Check hidden nooks like the detergent drawer, gasket, or drain pump for trapped grime.
- Ensure you’re leaving the door open between washes.
There’s Visible Mold or Mildew
- Scrub stubborn mold spots with a paste of baking soda and water, using an old toothbrush.
- Use a commercial mildew remover if natural solutions aren’t enough. Test in an inconspicuous area first.
Black Streaks or Residues on Clothing
- This is often leftover buildup inside the drum or dispenser.
- Make sure to clean dispensers thoroughly and run a cleaning cycle with no laundry inside.
Water Not Draining Properly
- Check and clean the filter or drain pump.
- Inspect hoses for blockages.
Tips to Keep Your Washing Machine Fresh
Preventing problems is always easier than fixing them. Try these best practices:
- Use the right detergent: High-efficiency machines (HE) require HE detergent to avoid excess suds.
- Don’t overload the machine: This helps each load get cleaner and prevents odors.
- Wipe down gaskets and doors after each use.
- Remove wet clothes promptly to keep the drum dry and mildew-free.
- Leave the door or lid open whenever possible to let air circulate.
- Clean dispensers regularly to prevent buildup.
These habits extend your machine’s life and keep your laundry smelling its best.
Benefits of a Clean Washing Machine
Taking care of your washer pays off in several ways:
- Fresher-smelling clothes: No more musty odors hanging around your fabrics.
- Longer machine life: A clean machine runs more efficiently, with less risk of breakdowns.
- Healthier home: Reducing mold, mildew, and bacteria keeps your living environment healthier.
Overcoming Cleaning Challenges
Sometimes, even with regular care, you may encounter persistent problems:
- Hard water deposits: Use a washing machine cleaner or run an occasional cycle with citric acid powder.
- Stubborn stains: Tackle tough spots with a toothbrush and a paste of baking soda and water.
- Pet hair traps: Run an empty rinse cycle to flush out fur.
If you’re stuck, check your manufacturer’s manual or look for advice in online communities where many have faced similar issues.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too much detergent: Excess soap creates build-up and bad smells.
- Forgetting to clean the detergent drawer or filter: Grime here can lead to mold and odors.
- Skipping regular maintenance: Waiting until you notice a problem makes it harder to clean.
- Using abrasive cleaners: These can scratch surfaces and promote more grime buildup.
Stay ahead by embracing regular, gentle cleaning routines.
Summary
Cleaning your washing machine is straightforward but essential. By following a monthly routine—wiping down gaskets, cleaning the drum with vinegar and baking soda, and checking the filter—you’ll enjoy fresher laundry and a reliable machine.
Remember: maintenance prevents problems. Little steps, done regularly, save you time and keep your clothes smelling like new wash after wash.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I clean my washing machine?
You should give your washing machine a thorough cleaning every month. If you use it heavily, or if you notice odors, increase the frequency. Quick wipe-downs after each use, especially for front-loading washers, are also helpful.
Can I use bleach instead of vinegar?
Yes, you can use bleach for a deep clean, especially if mildew is a problem. Run a hot wash cycle with 1/2 cup to 1 cup of bleach, but never mix bleach and vinegar—use only one cleaning agent at a time to ensure safety.
Why does my washer smell bad even after cleaning?
Persistent odors may indicate buildup in the gasket, filter, or interior parts you might have missed. Try a second cleaning cycle, scrub the gasket, and clean the filter. Leave the door open between washes to keep things dry.
Is it safe to use commercial washing machine cleaning tablets?
Absolutely! Commercial cleaning tablets are designed to break down residues and can be used as directed by the manufacturer. They’re convenient, but you can also use natural methods like vinegar and baking soda if you prefer.
What’s the best way to prevent mold and mildew in my washing machine?
Always remove wet laundry promptly, wipe the door and gasket after each load, and leave the washer door or lid open to allow air circulation. Regular monthly cleanings and periodic checks of dispensers and filters will keep mold and mildew at bay.
Proper maintenance keeps your washing machine running efficiently and your laundry smelling fresh. With a little routine care, you’ll spend less time troubleshooting and more time enjoying clean, bright clothes!