If your laundry isn’t coming out as fresh as it should, your washing machine drum might be the culprit. Over time, soap scum, lint, and mildew can build up inside, making even clean clothes smell less than pleasant.
Regularly cleaning your top-loading washing machine drum keeps your laundry fresh, extends your machine’s life, and prevents costly repairs. But what’s the best, simplest way to do it?
This article breaks down easy, effective steps for deep-cleaning your top-loading washer, plus helpful maintenance tips to keep your machine (and your clothes) at their best.
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How to Clean Your Top-Loading Washing Machine Drum: The Ultimate Guide
A clean washing machine drum is key to fresh, spotless laundry and the long-term health of your appliance. Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, dirt, and even mildew can collect inside the drum of your top-loading washing machine. The result? Musty odors, lackluster cleaning, and even stained clothes.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn exactly how to clean your top-loading washing machine drum, step by step. We’ll walk through why cleaning matters, practical methods, best tips, and smart maintenance so your washer stays in tip-top shape.
Why It’s Important to Clean Your Washing Machine Drum
Many people assume that the washing machine stays clean by virtue of washing clothes all the time. Unfortunately, that’s not the case.
The Hidden Build-Up
- Soap scum and detergent can accumulate inside the drum and pipes.
- Fabric softener leaves a waxy film over time.
- Lint from clothes can build up and cling to hidden spots.
- Hard water can cause mineral deposits.
- Warm, damp environments inside the washer make a perfect place for mold and bacteria.
Benefits of Regular Cleaning
- Prevents musty odors that can transfer to your clothes.
- Removes grime, mold, and bacteria for a healthier laundry routine.
- Keeps your machine running efficiently and can even extend its lifespan.
- Helps avoid unsightly stains or residue on clothing.
- Saves you money by preventing unnecessary repairs.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Top-Loading Washing Machine Drum
Cleaning your top-load washer doesn’t require fancy products or tools—just a little time and the right method.
What You Need
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- A soft cloth or microfiber towel
- An old toothbrush or small scrubbing brush
- Optional: Liquid bleach (for stubborn mildew or stains)
- Optional: Commercial washing machine cleaning tablets
1. Prepare Your Washer
- Start with an empty machine.
- Remove any clothing, detergent containers, fabric softener dispensers, or other accessories from the drum and around the lid.
2. Clean Removable Parts
- Take out parts like the fabric softener dispenser, bleach tray, or lint trap (if your model has them).
- Wash these pieces in warm, soapy water.
- Use an old toothbrush to scrub away residue, then rinse and let them air dry.
3. Run a Cleaning Cycle
Using Vinegar and Baking Soda
This natural method is gentle yet effective at deodorizing and breaking down build-up.
- Set your washer to the hottest, largest, and longest cycle available.
- As the tub fills, add 4 cups of white vinegar directly into the water. (Do not add detergent.)
- Let the machine agitate for a minute to mix the vinegar.
- Pause the cycle and let the mixture sit for an hour. This soaking time allows the vinegar to work on mildew, soap scum, and odors.
(Optional) If Your Washer Is Especially Dirty
- Add ½ cup of baking soda to the drum before starting the cycle with vinegar. This boosts the cleaning effect, especially for lingering odors.
Resume the cycle
- After the soaking hour, restart and let the cycle finish completely.
4. Clean the Drum’s Interior
- Using your cloth dipped in a mix of equal parts vinegar and hot water, wipe down the inside of the tub, beneath the lid, and around the rim.
- Focus on all rubber gaskets and grooves where residue can hide.
- Use your toothbrush to tackle stubborn spots or crevices.
- Wipe dry with a clean towel.
5. Run a Second Cycle (if needed)
If your machine still smells musty or you see stains:
- Run another hot cycle, this time adding 1 cup of baking soda (no vinegar or bleach).
- This neutralizes any lingering smells and residual vinegar.
6. Reinstall and Wipe Down
- Once fully finished, put all cleaned dispensers and parts back in place.
- Wipe the exterior of the washer and the control panel with a damp cloth for a sparkling finish.
7. (Optional) Bleach Cycle for Mold or Mildew
Use bleach only if stubborn mold or mildew remain after cleaning with vinegar and baking soda:
- Pour 1 cup of liquid bleach into the tub (not the dispenser).
- Run a hot, full wash cycle.
- When finished, run another rinse cycle to ensure all bleach is flushed out.
Tips & Best Practices for Ongoing Maintenance
It’s easier to prevent build-up than deal with it after it accumulates. A few small habits will keep your washer drum sparkling and odor-free.
Regular Quick Care
- Leave the lid open after each wash to air out the drum and prevent moisture build-up.
- Wipe the drum and lid regularly with a dry towel to remove water.
- Remove wet clothes promptly to minimize mildew and musty smells.
- Consider monthly deep cleans based on your washing frequency and water hardness.
Do’s and Don’ts
- Do use only the recommended amount of laundry detergent.
- Do clean removable parts regularly.
- Do check and clean the lint filter or trap if your washer has one.
- Don’t mix vinegar and bleach in the same cleaning session (this combination is dangerous).
- Don’t overload your washer, as it can cause residue to build up faster.
How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine Drum?
- Light use (1-2 times per week): Clean every 3 months.
- Frequent use or large households: Clean monthly.
- After washing heavily soiled or pet-laden laundry: Consider an extra cleaning session.
Challenges and Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with regular care, sometimes you may encounter stubborn problems.
Persistent Odors
- Check behind and under the agitator (if removable) for hidden grime.
- Clean the drain and filter area.
- Use a commercial washing machine cleaner if natural methods aren’t enough.
Visible Mold or Mildew
- Scrub the affected area thoroughly.
- Dry all surfaces after cleaning.
- Repeat a bleach wash as needed, but avoid overusing bleach to protect the machine’s components.
Cloudy or Stained Drum
- Mineral deposits from hard water may need a special washing machine descaler.
- Increase the use of vinegar in your cleaning routine.
Expert Maintenance Tips
- Schedule a yearly professional check-up to ensure all parts are in good working condition.
- If your home has hard water, consider installing a softener to prevent mineral build-up.
- Always follow your manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and maintenance, as some models have special instructions or require specific products.
Summary
Keeping your top-loading washing machine drum clean is crucial for fresh-smelling laundry, optimal appliance performance, and a healthier home. Routine deep cleaning—using simple household products like vinegar, baking soda, or bleach—combined with regular, small maintenance habits will keep your washer running smoothly. Make drum cleaning a regular part of your home routine, and enjoy cleaner clothes and fewer problems down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I deep clean my top-loading washing machine drum?
For most households, every 1 to 3 months is ideal. If you wash heavily soiled or pet-laden loads, you may need to clean it more often.
Can I use vinegar and baking soda together in my washing machine?
Yes! Vinegar and baking soda create a fizzing action that helps lift grime and deodorize. Use them together for a potent, natural clean—just avoid mixing with bleach.
Why does my washing machine smell musty even after cleaning?
Trapped moisture, hidden residue in parts like the agitator, or neglected filters can all cause lingering smells. Make sure to dry out the drum after each use and check all removable parts for hidden buildup.
Are commercial washing machine cleaners better than homemade solutions?
Both can be effective. Commercial cleaners are convenient and formulated for machines, but natural solutions like vinegar and baking soda are budget-friendly and often just as effective for routine cleaning.
Is it safe to use bleach to clean my washer drum?
Yes, in moderation. Use bleach only for deep cleaning stubborn mold or mildew, and always run a rinse cycle afterwards. Do not mix bleach with other cleaners like vinegar or baking soda.
With these strategies, your washing machine drum will stay as fresh and efficient as the day you bought it—making laundry day a breeze!