Do You Need to Put Anything in the Washer for Drum Clean?
Explore whether to add cleaners or other substances for drum cleaning, plus safe methods, cycle settings, and maintenance tips to keep your washer fresh and odor-free.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to put (or not put) in your washer for a drum clean, how to choose safe cleaners, and the best cycle settings. We’ll cover detergent-free cleaning, vinegar and baking soda options, and when to run a dedicated drum-clean cycle. This quick answer helps you start confidently.
Do you need to put anything in the washing machine for a drum clean
The short answer is: usually, you don’t need to add laundry. For drum cleaning, you’ll run a dedicated maintenance cycle or a hot-water wash using a cleaning product or safe household alternatives. According to Best Washing Machine, regular drum cleaning helps prevent odors, soap scum, and mineral buildup that can reduce efficiency and shorten the life of your appliance. Ensure the drum, door gasket, and detergent drawer are clear of objects. Then, select a product or method specified by your manufacturer. If your washer has a built-in drum-clean option, use that setting with the recommended cleaner or plain water. After the cycle, wipe the drum interior and gasket to remove loosened residue and dry surfaces to prevent mold.
Cleaning options: store-bought cleaners vs simple solutions
There are two primary paths for drum cleaning: dedicated drum-cleaning products and simple cleaning routines that rely on safe household ingredients. Store-bought drum cleaners are formulated to dissolve buildup without harming seals, and they come with clear instructions for the drum-clean cycle. An alternative is to run the drum clean with plain hot water and a small amount of white vinegar if your manual permits it; baking soda can help with odor for some models. When using vinegar, never mix it with bleach, and avoid mixing different cleaners in the same cycle. In all cases, you should run an extra rinse to flush out residues. By choosing the right option for your washer model, you can maintain a fresh drum and reduce odor and residue between more intensive deep cleans.
Front-load vs top-load drum cleaning considerations
Front-load washers tend to accumulate mold in the door seal, so targeted cleaning of that gasket is essential, alongside the drum. Top-load machines often allow easier access to the drum from above, making it simpler to wipe the interior after a cycle. Regardless of configuration, ensure you run the proper cycle, use the recommended product, and avoid pouring liquids into the wrong compartments. For both types, ensure you run the cycle with the drum empty and let the machine air out after completion.
Reading the manual and model-specific requirements
Not all models behave the same. Some manufacturers specify a dedicated drum-clean cycle; others recommend a hot water wash and a cleanser. If your model supports a "Maintenance" or "Drum Clean" cycle, use it exactly as described. If not, run a hot water cycle with an approved cleaner, then run an extra rinse. Always reference the manual because incorrect cleaners or cycles can damage seals. The Best Washing Machine team emphasizes following your model’s guidance to avoid voiding warranties.
Frequency and scheduling for drum cleaning
Frequency depends on usage, water hardness, and household detergents. Most households benefit from a drum-clean cycle every few months, but high-usage or hard-water homes may need cleaning more often. Regular maintenance prevents buildup that can cause odors and longer wash times. Keep a simple schedule and adjust it based on how your machine smells or performs.
Safety and common mistakes to avoid
Never mix cleaners or mix cleaners with bleach, as this can release harmful fumes. Always wear gloves and work with a well-ventilated area. Do not pour liquids into the wrong compartment or into the gasket; improper application can damage seals. If you notice persistent odor, give the seals an extra wipe and consider a second rinse after the cleaning cycle.
Environmental and energy considerations
Maintenance cycles consume water and energy, but neglecting drum cleaning can lead to higher energy use due to inefficiency and longer wash times. Choose manufacturer-recommended cleaners and cycles to minimize waste and ensure thorough rinsing. A clean drum helps your washer run more efficiently and extend its lifespan, which is better for the environment and your wallet.
Extra care: gaskets, seals, and door
Mold and residue often hide in the door gasket. After any drum-clean cycle, wipe the gasket, door seals, and drum rim with a microfiber cloth. Dry any moisture to prevent mold growth. This small step pays off in better odor control and longer-lasting seals.
Odor and mold remediation steps
If you notice musty odors, repeat a maintenance cycle with an approved cleaner and perform an extra rinse. In stubborn cases, clean the gasket and drum with a cloth soaked in a mild solution and let it air-dry completely before closing the door. Regularly inspecting and cleaning the gasket reduces recurring odors.
Troubleshooting when drum-clean cycle fails
If the drum-clean cycle doesn’t run as expected, verify the cycle is supported by your model and that you used the recommended product. Check for clogging in the detergent drawer or vent hoses, and run a rinse cycle with hot water to clear residues. If issues persist, consult the manufacturer’s support resources or Best Washing Machine’s troubleshooting guidance.
Tools & Materials
- Manufacturer-approved drum cleaner(Follow label instructions for dosages and cycle placement)
- White vinegar (5% acidity)(Use only if your model allows; avoid with bleach)
- Baking soda(Optional deodorizer; use sparingly)
- Hot water(Needed for hot-water maintenance cycles)
- Microfiber cloth(For wiping drum, gasket, and door area)
- Old toothbrush or small scrub brush(Useful for gasket crevices)
- Measuring cup(For accurate cleaner dosing)
- Rubber gloves(Protect hands during cleaning)
Steps
Estimated time: 30-45 minutes
- 1
Check the manual and choose method
Open the user manual and locate the recommended drum-clean method for your model. Decide whether to use a manufacturer-approved cleaner or a hot-water cycle with safe alternatives. Confirm cycle availability in the settings and ensure the drum is empty.
Tip: If a specific cleaner is recommended, follow the exact dosing and cycle instructions. - 2
Gather cleaning supplies
Assemble the cleaner, vinegar, baking soda, towels, and brushes. Have gloves ready and ensure ventilation in the laundry area. Keep detergents and cleaners away from children.
Tip: Lay out items within arm’s reach to minimize disruptions during the cycle. - 3
Prepare the washer
Remove any items from the drum and wipe the door seal. Check for foreign objects or coins near the drum edge. Ensure the detergent drawer is empty to prevent contamination of the cleaning cycle.
Tip: Inspect the gasket for signs of mold; address before starting the cycle. - 4
Add cleaner or prepare the cycle
If using a drum-clean cleaner, add it to the drum or detergent dispenser according to the product’s instructions. If using plain water with additives, prepare the correct rinse option and confirm hot water is selected if indicated.
Tip: Do not mix different cleaners in the same cycle. - 5
Run the drum-clean or maintenance cycle
Start the cycle and allow the washer to complete the cleaning process. Use the longest possible cycle if a shorter one is not specifically designed for drum cleaning.
Tip: Avoid opening the door mid-cycle to prevent water splashes and sensor errors. - 6
Wipe and inspect after cycle
Once finished, wipe the drum interior, door gasket, and surrounding surfaces with a microfiber cloth. Remove loosened residue to prevent re-depositing during the next wash.
Tip: Check the gasket folds; residue may accumulate in hard-to-see spots. - 7
Rinse to ensure no cleaner remains
Run an extra rinse or short cycle with plain water to flush out any cleaning agents. This helps prevent residues that could transfer to laundry next time.
Tip: A second rinse is especially helpful after vinegar or baking soda use. - 8
Dry and document maintenance
Leave the door ajar to air-dry the drum area. Note the date of cleaning and any observations about odors or residue to guide future maintenance.
Tip: Set a reminder to schedule the next drum-clean cycle in 2–3 months depending on usage.
FAQ
Do I need to put detergent in the washer when doing a drum clean?
Usually no detergent is needed for a drum-clean cycle. Use the cleaner recommended by the manufacturer or run a hot-water cycle with safe additives if your model supports it.
No detergent is typically needed for drum cleaning; use a manufacturer-approved cleaner or a hot-water cycle with safe additives.
Can I use vinegar to clean the drum?
Vinegar is acceptable on many models as a deodorizer, but check your manual to ensure compatibility. Never mix vinegar with bleach and avoid combining cleaners in one cycle.
Vinegar can be used on many models, but always check your manual and never mix with bleach.
What if my washer doesn’t have a drum-clean cycle?
If there’s no drum-clean option, run a hot-water wash with an approved cleaner and follow with an extra rinse. Some models offer a maintenance cycle—use it if available.
If there’s no drum-clean cycle, run hot water with an approved cleaner and do an extra rinse.
How often should I clean the drum?
Clean the drum every few months as a baseline; increase frequency if you notice odors, visible residue, or hard-water buildup.
Clean the drum every few months, or more often if you notice odors or buildup.
Is baking soda safe for drum cleaning?
Baking soda can deodorize, but confirm compatibility with your model and avoid mixing with other cleaners. Use sparingly and rinse well.
Baking soda can help with odor in some models, but check compatibility and rinse well.
What signs indicate I need a drum clean urgently?
Persistent musty odors, visible mold in the gasket, or reduced washing performance indicate you should perform a drum-clean cycle soon.
If you smell mold or see odor after washing, clean the drum soon.
Watch Video
The Essentials
- Run drum-clean cycles when recommended by the model.
- Use approved cleaners or plain water; avoid laundry during drum clean.
- Wipe gasket and interior; dry thoroughly to prevent mold.
- Do not mix cleaners; follow dye instructions and cycle labels.
- Document maintenance and schedule the next clean.
