How to wash a washing machine: a complete guide
Learn how to wash a washing machine safely and effectively with a thorough, step-by-step method. This guide covers drum, seals, dispensers, and maintenance tips to prevent odors and keep your washer running efficiently.
How do you wash a washing machine? Run an empty hot-water cycle with a cleaner approved for machines, or use a cup of distilled white vinegar and a cup of baking soda. After the cycle, wipe the drum, door seal, and dispenser, then leave the door ajar to air dry. Repeat every 1–3 months.
Why cleaning matters
If you’ve ever wondered how do you wash a washing machine, you know cleaning isn’t just about fresh-smelling laundry. A buildup of detergent residue, minerals, mold, and mildew inside drums, seals, and dispensers can reduce efficiency, cause unpleasant odors, and even contaminate clothes. Regular cleaning helps maintain optimal agitation, proper draining, and consistent spin speed. It also prolongs the life of key components by minimizing corrosion and wear. By establishing a routine, you’ll prevent stubborn odors from taking up residence and keep your washer operating at peak performance. This section lays the foundation for understanding why a scheduled cleaning matters as part of overall laundry maintenance.
Depending on your usage, water hardness, and detergent type, the frequency may vary, but a practical baseline is to clean the machine every 1–3 months. The goal is to remove soapy scum, mineral deposits, and any biofilm that can form in hard-to-reach areas. When you think about maintenance in terms of minutes saved during each load, it becomes a small but impactful habit. The reliable washer you rely on deserves consistent care, and a cleaner machine translates to cleaner laundry and fewer repairs down the line.
Bottom line: a clean washing machine translates to better performance, longer life, and fresher clothes, making the effort worthwhile for any household.
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Tools & Materials
- Power source and stable surface(Ensure the machine is level and accessible; unplug before starting.)
- Washing machine cleaner or DIY cleaner (vinegar + baking soda)(Choose a cleaner labeled safe for appliances; avoid mixing bleach with vinegar.)
- Soft cloth or microfiber cloth(For wiping the drum, door seal, and dispenser.)
- Old towels or absorbent cloth(Place around the machine to catch spills.)
- Gloves(Protect your hands while cleaning seals and hoses.)
- Measuring cup(Used if you’re measuring vinegar and baking soda.)
- Toothbrush or small brush(Gently scrub crevices in the dispenser and door seal.)
Steps
Estimated time: 45-60 minutes
- 1
Power off and unplug the washer
Begin by turning off the machine and unplugging it from the wall outlet. This reduces the risk of electrical shock while you clean the drum, seals, and hoses. If your washer has a built-in child lock, deactivate it before you start to avoid interference with automated cycles.
Tip: If you must pull the machine away from the wall, move slowly to avoid damaging the power cord. - 2
Remove and rinse the detergent dispenser
Take out the detergent drawer and rinse it under warm running water. Use a soft brush to scrub away residual powder, liquid detergent, and fabric softener buildup. Dry the drawer thoroughly before reinserting. This prevents cross-contamination of residues during future cycles.
Tip: Soak the drawer in warm water for a few minutes if buildup is stubborn. - 3
Inspect and clean the door seal
Carefully examine the rubber door seal for mold, mildew, or trapped debris. Wipe with a damp cloth, then use a small brush to reach folds and crevices. If you see persistent mold, consider a mild mold-safe cleaner and allow the seal to air dry thoroughly before closing the door.
Tip: Be sure to wipe from the outside toward the drum to avoid pushing grime inward. - 4
Run a hot cycle with cleaner
Place your cleaner of choice into the drum or dispenser area and run an empty hottest cycle. If you’re using a DIY mix, add a cup of distilled white vinegar and a cup of baking soda as the cycle starts. Stop the machine briefly if you need to pause to add the cleaner, then resume and complete the cycle.
Tip: Do not mix vinegar with bleach or ammonia; this creates harmful fumes. - 5
Wipe the interior and drum after the cycle
Once the cycle finishes, immediately wipe the drum interior with a clean cloth to remove loosened residue. Pay attention to edges, corners, and any residue still clinging to the drum walls. This prevents re-depositing dirt on the next load.
Tip: Keep a damp cloth handy to catch drips as you wipe. - 6
Clean exterior surfaces and hoses
Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth. If hoses are accessible and visibly dirty, wipe them gently and check for bulges or leaks. Avoid forcing water into electrical components. Clean hoses only with a damp cloth.
Tip: Check your machine’s user manual for any hose cleaning cautions specific to your model. - 7
Dry and air out the drum area
Leave the door or lid open for several hours to air dry. This discourages mold growth and prevents residual moisture from lingering inside. A dry environment helps maintain fresh-smelling clothes after every cycle.
Tip: If possible, place a towel on the floor to absorb any remaining moisture. - 8
Reseat the dispenser and run a quick rinse
Reinstall the detergent drawer and run a short rinse cycle with no clothes to flush any remaining debris from the dispenser pathway. This helps ensure no leftover residues transfer to your next load.
Tip: A quick rinse can be done with warm water only if you don’t want to run a full clean cycle again. - 9
Schedule maintenance reminders
Mark a calendar reminder for 1–3 months later to repeat the cleaning process. Regular upkeep prevents buildup, keeps odors at bay, and maintains machine effectiveness over time.
Tip: Attach a reminder to your laundry schedule so cleaning becomes a habit. - 10
Document any issues observed
If you notice persistent odors, unusual noises, or poor draining after cleaning, document what happened and consult your washer’s manual or a professional. Cleaning resolves many but not all issues.
Tip: Note model and symptoms to aid future service calls.
FAQ
Do I need a special washing machine cleaner, or can I use household products?
Either a cleaner designed for washing machines or a simple DIY mix (vinegar and baking soda) can work. Avoid mixing vinegar with bleach or ammonia. Always follow the product’s instructions and use the hottest setting your machine allows.
You can use a purpose-made machine cleaner or a household mix of vinegar and baking soda, but never mix vinegar with bleach or ammonia.
How often should I clean my washing machine?
A practical baseline is every 1–3 months, depending on usage, water hardness, and detergent type. In areas with hard water or heavy usage, you may want to clean more often.
Cleaning every one to three months is usually enough, more often if you have hard water or use a lot of detergent.
Is vinegar safe to use for cleaning?
Yes, distilled white vinegar is commonly used for DIY cleaning. Do not use vinegar together with bleach. Rinse thoroughly to avoid any vinegar odor on clothes.
Yes, vinegar is commonly used, but don’t mix it with bleach and make sure to rinse well so it doesn’t linger.
What should I do if odors persist after cleaning?
If odors persist, you may need to repeat the cleaning cycle, check for mold in the gasket, or inspect the drain pump and hoses for blockages. Consider running a cleaner specifically designed for mold removal.
If odors stick around after cleaning, repeat the cycle and check the gasket and hoses for mold or blockages.
Should I leave the door open after washing?
Yes, leaving the door or lid slightly ajar after cleaning helps air out the drum and reduces moisture buildup that can cause mold and mildew.
Yes, keep the door ajar after cleaning to help it dry and prevent mold.
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The Essentials
- Clean drum, seals, and dispenser to prevent odors
- Use hot cycles and approved cleaners for best results
- Wipe and dry interior after cleaning to avoid mold
- Establish a regular schedule to maintain washer performance
- Check for signs of damage and seek professional help when needed
