Ever notice your clothes coming out of the wash with a bit less freshness than before? You might be surprised to learn that your washing machine needs cleaning too! Over time, detergent residue, lint, and even mold can build up inside, affecting both your laundry and the machine’s performance.
In this article, you’ll find simple steps and helpful tips to deep clean your washing machine, keeping it fresh, odor-free, and running smoothly for every load.
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How to Clean the Inside of Your Washing Machine: A Complete Guide
Keeping your washing machine clean inside is essential for fresh laundry, a longer-lasting appliance, and a hygienic home. Over time, residue from detergent, lint, hard water minerals, and even mold can build up, leaving your washer smelling musty and making clothes less clean. Whether you have a front-loader or a top-loader, you can banish grime and lingering odors by learning how to clean the inside of your washing machine the right way. Let’s walk through the process step by step.
Why Cleaning the Inside of Your Washing Machine Matters
Even if your washer looks spotless on the outside, it can hide buildup inside. Ignoring this routine task can cause:
- Unpleasant odors that transfer to your clothes and linens
- Mold, mildew, and bacteria growth—especially in warm, damp places
- Reduced machine performance and lifespan
- Soap residue that clings to drum walls
- Dirty laundry, even after washing cycles
Regular cleaning prevents these issues, keeping both your washer and your laundry fresh.
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather a few basic cleaning supplies. Most are probably already in your home:
- Distilled white vinegar (for removing odors and mineral deposits)
- Baking soda (for gentle scrubbing and deodorizing)
- Microfiber cloths or old towels (for wiping surfaces)
- Old toothbrush or small soft brush (for corners and dispensers)
- Mild liquid dish soap
- Rubber gloves (optional, but great for sensitive skin)
- A bucket or bowl (for soaking small parts)
For some machines, you may also use:
- Special washing machine cleaner tablets (optional, for convenience)
- Hydrogen peroxide or bleach (used sparingly for sanitizing mold/mildew)
Step-by-Step: How to Clean the Inside of Your Washing Machine
Step 1: Clean or Remove Detergent Dispensers
- Pull out detergent, fabric softener, and bleach dispensers. Many dispensers are removable—check your user manual if unsure.
- Soak them in hot, soapy water for 15-20 minutes to dissolve residue.
- Scrub with an old toothbrush to remove tough buildup.
- Rinse well and dry with a cloth before replacing.
Step 2: Wipe Down Seals, Gaskets, and Doors
- For front-loading washers, pay special attention to the rubber door gasket. Pull it gently to check for trapped lint, hair, and moisture.
- Wipe all gasket surfaces with a mixture of one part vinegar and one part water.
- Use a cloth or small brush to clean in crevices.
- If you spot mold, use a solution of hydrogen peroxide or diluted bleach. Wear gloves for protection.
Step 3: Run a Cleaning Cycle
Most modern washers offer a “Tub Clean” or “Self Clean” cycle. If yours has one, select it. Otherwise, try this method:
For Front-Loading Washers
- Add two cups of white vinegar directly into the drum (do not add detergent).
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of baking soda into the drum.
- Run the hottest, longest cycle possible with an empty machine.
- Let the cycle finish completely.
For Top-Loading Washers
- Start a large, hot water cycle (without clothes).
- As the drum fills, add four cups of white vinegar.
- Let the machine agitate for about a minute to mix, then pause the cycle and let sit for 1 hour. This helps loosen deposits.
- After an hour, add half a cup of baking soda, resume the cycle, and let it complete.
- (Optional) Wipe the drum with a clean cloth after the cycle.
Step 4: Scrub and Clean Remaining Areas
- Use a vinegar-dampened cloth to wipe around the lid, knobs, and control panel.
- For stubborn spots, a paste of baking soda and water works well.
- Clean the agitator and drum holes (for top-loaders) using a small brush.
Step 5: Wipe Dry and Leave the Lid Open
- When finished, use a dry towel to remove excess moisture from inside the drum, gaskets, and around the door.
- Leave the machine door or lid open to air out completely. This reduces future mold and musty odor.
Tips for Keeping Your Washing Machine Fresh
Maintaining your washer is easier than a deep clean, and it pays off! Here’s how to keep your washer smelling and working its best:
- Leave the door or lid open after every wash to air-dry the interior.
- Wipe the rubber door seal after each use, especially on front-loaders.
- Remove damp laundry promptly.
- Use the right amount of detergent—too much can cause residue.
- Run a cleaning cycle once a month.
- Check and clean filters, hoses, and drains every few months.
- Regularly remove pet hair or lint from seals and drum holes.
Benefits of Regular Washing Machine Cleaning
- Fresher-smelling laundry every time you wash
- Longer machine lifespan, avoiding costly repairs
- Reduced risk of allergy symptoms from mold or bacteria
- Clothes come out cleaner and softer
- Lower risk of buildup causing machine errors
Routine maintenance is quick and saves you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Mold or Mildew That Won’t Budge
- Try using a solution of one part bleach to ten parts water (in a well-ventilated area).
- Allow the solution to sit on affected areas for 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse well.
- Make sure to air-dry thoroughly.
Persistent Odors
- Double the amount of vinegar and baking soda during your next cleaning cycle.
- Be sure to clean all removable parts and let everything dry completely.
Hard Water Deposits
- White vinegar is excellent for dissolving lime scale.
- If you live in an area with hard water, consider monthly cleanings.
Special Notes for High-Efficiency (HE) Washers
HE machines use less water, which sometimes means detergent and fabric softener residues don’t fully rinse away. Always:
- Use HE-approved detergent (smaller amounts)
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning cycles
- Wipe seals and gaskets after each use, as mold is more common in these models
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve followed these steps and your washing machine continues to smell bad or operate poorly, there may be a hidden problem such as a blocked filter, faulty drainage, or internal mold growth. A professional technician can safely inspect, clean, and service the machine.
Wrapping It All Up
Regularly cleaning your washing machine’s interior keeps your family’s laundry fresh, extends your machine’s life, and helps avoid unpleasant surprises. Most deep cleans can be done using basic household staples like vinegar and baking soda. Foster good cleaning habits, and you’ll rarely face issues with odor or buildup. Your washer will reward you every time—one clean load at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I clean the inside of my washing machine?
You should perform a deep clean about once a month. If you notice odors or see visible residue sooner, clean it as needed for best results.
Can I use bleach instead of vinegar to clean my washing machine?
Yes, bleach can be effective, especially for sanitizing mold or mildew. However, use it sparingly and with good ventilation. Never mix bleach with vinegar or other cleaning products, as it can produce harmful fumes.
Are commercial washing machine cleaning tablets necessary?
While commercial tablets are convenient and formulated for the job, you can achieve excellent results with household items like white vinegar and baking soda. Tablets may be a good option for quick, routine cleans.
My washing machine smells musty—what should I do?
Run a cleaning cycle using vinegar and baking soda, wipe all seals and gaskets, and leave the door or lid open to allow air circulation. Remove any residue from detergent dispensers, and make sure the machine dries completely between uses.
Do I need to clean a brand-new washing machine?
Even new machines can harbor manufacturing residues. It’s wise to run an empty hot cycle (sometimes called a “clean washer cycle”) before your first laundry load.
With these straightforward steps and tips, keeping the inside of your washing machine clean is simple and manageable. Happy laundering!