Ever noticed your freshly washed clothes coming out not-so-fresh? Over time, washing machines can build up grime, detergent residue, and even odors, making regular cleaning a must.
Knowing how to run a proper cleaning cycle isn’t just about keeping things spotless—it also helps your machine last longer and your laundry stay truly clean.
In this article, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, handy tips, and helpful insights to keep your washing machine—and your clothes—at their best.
Related Video
How to Run a Cleaning Cycle on Your Washing Machine
Keeping your washing machine clean is just as important as cleaning your clothes. Over time, detergent residues, fabric softener, and grime can build up inside your machine, leading to unpleasant odors and less effective washes. A cleaning cycle (sometimes known as a maintenance or service wash) helps keep your washing machine running smoothly and your laundry smelling fresh.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about running a cleaning cycle on your washing machine, including step-by-step instructions, practical tips, and answers to common questions.
Why Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?
You might assume your washing machine is self-cleaning since it uses soap and water regularly. However, that’s not the case. Here’s why routine cleaning cycles are necessary:
- Buildup Prevention: Soap scum, detergent, and fabric softener can accumulate inside the drum and dispensers.
- Eliminate Odors: Moisture and residues can foster mold, mildew, and bacteria, causing bad smells.
- Improve Performance: A clean machine ensures cleaner clothes, prevents spots or marks, and maintains washing efficiency.
- Prolong Machine Life: Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and extends the lifespan of your washer.
Step-by-Step Guide to Running a Cleaning Cycle
Most modern washing machines have a built-in cleaning cycle. If your machine doesn’t, you can still clean it effectively using other methods. Here’s how:
1. Check Your Manual
- Before starting, look in your washing machine’s manual for model-specific instructions.
- If you don’t have a manual handy, most machines follow similar cleaning routines.
2. Empty the Drum
- Always remove any laundry before you begin a cleaning cycle.
3. Clean Dispensers and Seals
- Pull out the detergent and fabric softener drawers. Rinse them under warm water and scrub off any residue or buildup.
- Wipe the door seal (the rubber gasket) carefully, paying attention to crevices where grime and mold love to hide. Use a cloth dipped in soapy water, and dry with a clean towel.
4. Choose a Cleaning Product
You have a few options:
- Washing machine cleaning tablets or powders.
- White vinegar and baking soda.
- Vinegar cuts through odors and mineral deposits; baking soda helps scrub away residue.
- Bleach (for deep cleaning, but use sparingly and follow safety guidelines).
Important: Never mix bleach and vinegar—doing so creates toxic fumes.
5. Select the Cleaning Cycle
- Locate your machine’s dedicated “Tub Clean,” “Machine Clean,” or “Maintenance” cycle if available.
- If there isn’t a specific cleaning cycle, use the hottest and longest wash cycle your machine offers (usually called “Cotton Hot” or “Sanitize”).
6. Add the Cleaner
- Place the cleaning product directly into the drum (not the dispenser) or follow product instructions.
- For vinegar and baking soda:
- Pour two cups of white vinegar into the drum.
- Optionally, sprinkle half a cup of baking soda directly into the drum.
7. Start the Cycle
- Run the wash on the hottest setting. High temperatures help dissolve residues and kill germs.
8. Wipe Down and Finish
- After the cycle finishes, leave the door open to allow the drum to dry and prevent moisture buildup.
- Wipe down the inside of the drum, door, and seal with a dry cloth.
Best Practices for a Cleaner Washing Machine
To keep your washing machine sparkling and efficient, add these habits to your laundry routine:
- Clean Once a Month: Run a cleaning or maintenance cycle at least every month.
- Leave the Door Open: After every wash, leave the door slightly ajar so air can circulate and the drum can dry out.
- Clean the Dispensers: Rinse out the soap and softener drawers weekly.
- Wipe the Seal Regularly: Mold and mildew love moist places, so frequently wipe down the door seal.
- Use the Right Detergent: Use high-efficiency detergents for HE machines and stick to recommended amounts to prevent residue buildup.
- Don’t Overload: A full but not overloaded machine helps rinse away residues better.
Benefits of Running a Cleaning Cycle
There are a host of advantages to this simple maintenance routine:
- Fresher Laundry: No lingering washer odors transferred onto clothes.
- Quieter Operation: A clean machine often runs smoother and quieter.
- Efficiency: Prevents blockages and buildup that can cause malfunctions or longer wash times.
- Cost Savings: Fewer repairs and a longer-lasting machine save you money.
- Peace of Mind: You know your clothes are being washed in a truly clean environment!
Challenges and Solutions
Even simple routines can run into issues. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:
- Persistent Odors: If odors linger, repeat the cleaning cycle, add a cup of baking soda, or deep-clean the rubber door seal.
- Visible Mold: Use a diluted bleach solution or a commercial washing machine cleaner formulated to tackle mold.
- Detergent Residue: Reduce the amount of detergent and use high-efficiency products.
- Cleaning Cycle Not Available: If your machine lacks a dedicated cycle, always select the hottest and longest program for manual cleaning.
- Hard Water Issues: If you live in a hard water area, descale your machine every 1–2 months using an appropriate descaling agent.
Practical Tips and Advice
- Try Natural Cleaners: White vinegar and baking soda are both effective, affordable, and easy to find.
- Routine Wipe-Downs: Keep a cloth nearby and quickly wipe the gasket and interior after each washing day.
- Don’t Forget the Filter: Every few months, check the washer’s filter for lint, coins, and small objects that can clog the system.
- Lessen Moisture: Always empty the machine soon after a cycle to prevent damp, musty smells.
- Keep an Eye on Hoses: Inspect hoses for kinks, leaks, or buildup and replace them every few years for optimal flow.
- Upgrade Detergent for HE Machines: If you have a high-efficiency washer, always use HE detergent to reduce suds and residue.
Concluding Summary
Running a cleaning cycle on your washing machine is easy and essential. It keeps your clothes and appliance fresh, prevents bad odors, and extends the life of your investment. By cleaning your machine monthly and following a few simple habits, you’ll enjoy brighter, cleaner laundry and smooth, reliable washes for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How often should I run a cleaning cycle on my washing machine?
Ideally, you should run a cleaning cycle once a month. If you do many loads each week or live in a humid climate, you may want to clean your machine every two weeks.
2. Can I use regular household vinegar and baking soda to clean my washer?
Yes, both plain white vinegar and baking soda are safe and effective for cleaning your washing machine. Vinegar tackles odors and mineral residues, while baking soda acts as a gentle scrub. However, always use them separately from bleach.
3. What should I do if my washing machine doesn’t have a dedicated cleaning cycle?
Use the hottest and longest wash cycle available on your machine. Add a washing machine cleaner, white vinegar, or baking soda directly into the drum, and run the cycle with an empty load.
4. Are commercial washing machine cleaners better than natural solutions?
Both can be effective. Commercial products are specially formulated to dissolve residues, while natural options like vinegar and baking soda are affordable, eco-friendly, and widely available. Choose what fits your preferences and consult your machine’s manual for guidelines.
5. Why does my washing machine still smell after I’ve run a cleaning cycle?
Persistent smells may come from buildup in the gasket, filter, or hoses. Wipe the door seal carefully, clean the filter, and check for mold or trapped lint. Repeat the cleaning cycle if necessary, using a stronger cleaner if needed.
A little maintenance goes a long way. Make the cleaning cycle a regular habit, and your washing machine—and your laundry—will thank you!