Ever noticed your freshly washed clothes don’t smell as clean as they should? You might be surprised—your washing machine needs cleaning, too! Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, and grime build up inside, causing musty odors and even affecting your washer’s performance.
Keeping your machine clean is essential for fresh laundry and a longer-lasting appliance. In this article, we’ll walk you through simple, effective steps to clean the inside of your washing machine, plus helpful tips to keep it sparkling.
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How to Clean the Inside of Your Washing Machine: The Complete Expert Guide
Keeping your washing machine clean on the inside is essential for fresh, well-laundered clothes and the longevity of your appliance. Over time, residue from detergent, fabric softener, dirt, and even mold and mildew can build up, leading to musty odors, less effective washes, and even appliance malfunctions.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know about cleaning the inside of your washing machine, step by step, including practical tips, troubleshooting advice, expert recommendations, and answers to your most common questions.
Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Matters
When you use your washing machine regularly, detergent and debris don’t simply disappear with each rinse. Little by little, soap scum, lint, body oils, hard water minerals, and even microbes can accumulate inside the drum, gasket, and dispenser trays. These buildups can:
- Cause your clothes to smell musty or sour, even after washing
- Lead to black spots of mold and mildew, especially in damp spots and seals
- Waste energy and water by making each wash cycle less effective
- Shorten the lifespan of your appliance
Making washing machine cleaning a regular part of your home care can help prevent these problems and keep your laundry running smoothly.
Step-by-Step: Deep Cleaning the Inside of Your Washing Machine
There are two main types of washing machines: top-loading and front-loading. Both require cleaning, but you might need to adjust the steps slightly based on your model. Here’s a universal cleaning routine that works for most machines.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, have these common household items on hand:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- A small bucket or bowl
- Microfiber cloths or sponges
- Old toothbrush (for scrubbing small areas)
- Optional: mild dish soap
1. Clean the Dispensers
Start with the detergent and fabric softener dispensers, as these often harbor thick residue.
- Remove each dispenser if possible (check your manual for how).
- Soak them in warm, soapy water for 15–30 minutes to loosen buildup.
- Scrub away any residue using a brush or sponge.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry before replacing.
2. Wipe Down the Door and Gasket/Seal
Front-loading washers have a rubber gasket around the door that can trap water, lint, and even mold.
- Pull back the rubber seal gently and check for dirt or black spots.
- Wipe with a damp cloth soaked in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
- For stubborn mold spots, gently scrub with a baking soda paste (mix baking soda with a little water).
- Dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
3. Clean the Inner Drum
Now, focus on the drum where the laundry spins.
For a Deep Clean:
- Empty the washer: No clothes or other items inside.
- Set your machine to the hottest, longest cycle (look for settings like “Tub Clean,” “Drum Clean,” or “Sanitize” if available).
- Add two cups of white vinegar directly into the drum. Vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant and deodorizer.
- Optional: For a boost, sprinkle half a cup of baking soda into the drum.
- Start the cycle and let it finish completely.
- If your machine still smells or has visible buildup, run a second, shorter rinse cycle with just water.
For Tough Stains or Odors:
- Pause the wash during the hot cycle for an hour (if your machine allows) to let the cleaning solution soak.
- If gunk is left after the cycle, wipe it away with a damp cloth.
4. Clean the Filter (If Accessible)
Many washing machines have a small drain or lint filter, usually at the bottom behind a panel.
- Check your user manual for the location and instructions.
- Gently remove and clean the filter under running water.
- Clear any lint, coins, or debris before replacing.
5. Wipe the Exterior and Door
- Spray a cloth with a little vinegar or a mild cleaner.
- Wipe down the outer surfaces, control panel, and handles.
- Buff dry with a clean cloth.
Maintenance Tips for an Odor-Free Washing Machine
Making washing machine cleaning a habit is the key to avoiding stubborn odors and mold. Here are some best practices:
- Leave the door or lid open after every wash, so the interior can dry.
- Wipe the gasket/seal and door after each wash to prevent moisture buildup.
- Clean the detergent dispensers monthly.
- Run a hot cleaning cycle with vinegar and/or baking soda once a month.
- Use only the recommended amount of detergent, as excess can build up in hidden areas.
- Promptly remove wet clothes after a cycle finishes.
Practical Advice for Different Washing Machine Types
Top-Loading Machines
- The drum and agitator can be scrubbed gently with a baking soda paste for extra cleaning.
- Check the area under the lid and hinges for hidden dirt.
Front-Loading Machines
- Pay extra attention to the rubber door seal.
- Occasionally wipe dry all crevices where water might pool and cause mildew.
Common Challenges (and How to Solve Them)
Persistent Musty Odors
- Try a second cleaning cycle with a specialty washing machine cleaner.
- Make sure to dry out the drum and leave the door open after use.
Visible Mold Spots
- Sprinkle baking soda on affected areas.
- Scrub gently with a damp brush and rinse well.
Detergent or Fabric Softener Buildup
- Soak affected areas in hot, soapy water.
- Use an old toothbrush to reach corners and crevices.
The Benefits of Keeping Your Washing Machine Clean
- Better Laundry Results: Clothes come out fresh and truly clean.
- Odor-Free Laundry: No musty or sour smell lingers on your favorite garments.
- Longer Appliance Life: Regular cleaning helps prevent breakdowns and costly repairs.
- Energy Efficiency: Your washer runs more efficiently with less residue inside.
- Improved Hygiene: Lower risk of bacteria and mold growing where you wash your clothes.
Best Practices and Pro Tips
- Do a deep clean monthly, or more often if you wash heavily soiled loads or notice odours.
- If your machine has a “Tub Clean” or “Maintenance” cycle, use it according to your user manual.
- Use high-efficiency (HE) detergent in front-loading and HE machines, as regular soaps can create too many suds and leave residue.
- Clean around the outside and under the lid or door – dirt and spills can collect there too.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I clean the inside of my washing machine?
Ideally, you should deep clean your washing machine at least once a month. If you notice odors or run frequent loads, especially with heavily soiled clothing, consider cleaning it every two weeks.
Can I use bleach instead of vinegar to clean my washer?
Yes, bleach can disinfect and remove mold or bacteria. For a deep clean, run one hot cycle with 1/2 cup of bleach in the drum (no laundry), then follow up with a rinse or a cycle using vinegar. Do not mix bleach and vinegar at the same time.
Why does my washing machine have a musty odor even after cleaning?
Persistent odors can result from moisture trapped in the seals or drum. Ensure the door/gasket is thoroughly dried after each wash, run an extra rinse, and keep the door or lid open to air out the interior.
Is there a difference between cleaning a front loader and a top loader?
While the overall process is similar, front loaders are more prone to mold in the door seal and need extra attention there. Top loaders may gather residue around the agitator and under the lid, so check these spots.
Do washing machine cleaning tablets work as well as vinegar and baking soda?
Cleaning tablets specifically designed for washing machines are effective and convenient, breaking down residue and deodorizing the drum. However, vinegar and baking soda are affordable, natural, and also do a great job when used properly.
In Conclusion
Regularly cleaning the inside of your washing machine is a simple step that makes a big difference in laundry freshness and appliance care. By following these straightforward techniques, you can ensure every load of laundry is as clean as possible and keep your machine in top shape for years to come. Adopt these cleaning and maintenance habits, and say goodbye to musty smells, residue, and laundry frustrations!