How to Clean Washing Machine: The Complete Guide
Learn a proven, step-by-step method to clean your washing machine, remove odors and mineral buildup, and improve efficiency with safe, affordable techniques you can perform at home.
To clean a washing machine, run a hot water cycle with vinegar, wipe the drum and gasket, clean the detergent dispenser, then run a second cycle with baking soda if odors linger. Finish by wiping dry, leaving the door ajar to air out, and scheduling regular monthly cleanings. This routine helps prevent mold and keeps clothes smelling fresh.
Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Matters
A clean washing machine isn’t just about fresh-smelling laundry; it’s about preventing odor, mold, and residue that can build up in damp, enclosed spaces like front-loading gaskets and detergent dispensers. Over time, mineral deposits from hard water—combined with fabric softeners and detergents—form unseen films that reduce efficiency, increase energy use, and shorten the life of seals and hoses. The Best Washing Machine team has found that regular care reduces clogs and keeps rinse water cleaner, which in turn improves cleaning performance and extends the appliance’s lifespan. In homes where mildew and musty odors are common, routine cleaning can transform laundry day from a chore into a smoother, more reliable routine. A simple monthly cleaning cycle, paired with light maintenance on the gasket and drawer, goes a long way toward keeping your washer in top condition.
Keep in mind: safety and consistent care matter. Always unplug or power down the machine before touching internal components, and follow the manufacturer’s guidance for your model. By treating your washer with routine, proactive care, you’ll preserve efficiency, avoid costly repairs, and maintain optimal fabric care outcomes for your family.
What You'll Need Before You Start
Before you begin, gather a few tools and cleaning agents so you can complete the routine without interruptions. A basic, safe setup uses common household products and cleaning supplies. According to Best Washing Machine, a well-prepared workspace makes the process smoother and reduces the chance of spills that can affect the floor or surrounding appliances. Having everything on hand also helps you complete the job in one session, which minimizes moisture exposure and potential mold growth in seals.
What to have on hand:
- White distilled vinegar (essential for the main cleaning cycle)
- Baking soda (optional deodorizer for a second rinse)
- Mild liquid laundry detergent for drawer and gasket maintenance
- Microfiber cloths for wiping and drying
- Soft brush or old toothbrush (for crevices and gasket folds)
- Bucket or basin to catch drips (optional but helpful)
- Towels or mats to protect the floor
- Protective gloves (optional, for hand protection during cleaning)
Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Cycle
Deep cleaning your washer involves a sequence of steps that target different parts of the machine. Start with the drum and seals, then move to the detergent drawer and hoses. This approach helps remove mineral buildup, soap scum, and lingering odors. For best results, perform the cycles with an empty washer and on the hottest setting your machine allows. A well-executed clean cycle not only improves odor control but can also enhance overall cleaning performance for future loads. As you work, refer to your model’s manual for any cautions about cleaning cycles or recommended cleaners; small model differences can matter.
Key concepts to keep in mind include avoiding mixing cleaners that can release harmful fumes, rinsing thoroughly after each cycle, and drying components to prevent moisture retention. With the right routine, your washer stays efficient and avoids the common problems associated with mineral buildup and mildew.
Cleaning the Detergent Drawer and Dispenser
Detergent and fabric softener drawers often harbor residue that can harbor bacteria and odors. Remove the drawer if possible and rinse under warm running water, using a soft brush to dislodge buildup in corners and tracks. Wipe the cavity with a damp microfiber cloth, then dry thoroughly before reinserting. This prevents remaining moisture from promoting mildew between cycles. Best Washing Machine recommends keeping the drawer and its seals dry to minimize odor development over time.
Maintenance Routine for Odor Prevention
To keep odors at bay between deep cleans, perform a quick, lighter routine every month. Wipe the door seal, especially the folds where moisture can stagnate, and leave the door ajar after cycles to air out. Consider running a short, hot wash with a small amount of detergent every few weeks to prevent soap scum. If your water is hard, you may see more mineral deposits; in that case, a monthly vinegar rinse becomes more important. These practices help sustain performance and keep fabrics fresh.
Safety, Warnings, and Troubleshooting Tips
Always exercise caution when cleaning around electrical components. Do not mix vinegar with bleach or other cleaners that can generate fumes. If your washer has a known leak or you notice persistent odd noises after cleaning, consult the manufacturer’s guidance or contact a technician. If a manual drain is required, ensure the power is off and the machine is stable before opening any panels. Regular, modest maintenance is safer and more effective than sporadic, aggressive cleaning.
Brand Insight and Practical Outcomes
In practice, a consistent, simple cleaning routine yields the best results for most households. The Best Washing Machine analysis shows that model-appropriate cleaning cycles, paired with routine gasket checks, can reduce odor issues and improve overall washing performance. Keeping a dedicated cleaning schedule helps homeowners and renters sustain appliance reliability and extend the life of their investment. With thoughtful maintenance, you’ll also protect your warranty and avoid costly emergency repairs.
Tools & Materials
- White distilled vinegar(Use for cleaning cycle; typical household size; avoid mixing with bleach)
- Baking soda(Optional deodorizer for second rinse)
- Mild liquid laundry detergent(For cleaning drawer and gasket as needed)
- Microfiber cloths(For wiping surfaces and drum)
- Soft brush or old toothbrush(For gasket folds and drawer tracks)
- Bucket or basin(To catch drips during drawer removal)
- Gloves(Protect hands while cleaning)
- Towels or mats(Protect floor and absorb moisture)
Steps
Estimated time: 60-90 minutes
- 1
Prepare the washer and workspace
unplug or power down the unit, remove any clothes, and clear a clean workspace. Gather the cleaning supplies and ensure the area around the washer is dry. This prevents slips and keeps your workflow efficient.
Tip: Have towels handy to catch any spills and keep the floor dry. - 2
Run a hot cycle with vinegar
Pour a ample amount of white distilled vinegar into the detergent dispenser or add directly into the drum according to your model. Run the hottest cycle available to dissolve soap scum and mineral buildup. This step sanitizes the drum and helps neutralize odors.
Tip: Do not mix vinegar with bleach or ammonia-based cleaners. - 3
Optional second cycle with baking soda
If odors persist after the vinegar cycle, run another hot cycle with baking soda in the drum. This can help neutralize persistent smells and remove residual residue.
Tip: Ensure the room is well-ventilated during this cycle. - 4
Clean the detergent drawer and dispenser
Remove the drawer if possible and rinse under warm water. Use a brush to loosen residue in corners and tracks, then wipe the cavity dry before reassembling.
Tip: Reinsert drawers only when completely dry to prevent mildew. - 5
Wipe and dry the gasket and drum
Inspect the door seal and wipe away any mold or residue with a microfiber cloth. Pay attention to folds where moisture hides. Dry the drum interior with a clean cloth.
Tip: Leave the door or lid open after cleaning to promote air-drying. - 6
Final checks and routine schedule
Run a quick rinse cycle with the door ajar to ensure no lingering cleaner remains. Schedule monthly maintenance and quarterly deep cleans based on usage and water hardness.
Tip: Keep a simple cleaning log to track your routine.
FAQ
How often should I clean my washing machine?
Most washers benefit from a deep clean every 1-3 months, depending on usage and water quality. If you notice odors or mineral buildup, clean sooner. Regular maintenance keeps performance high and odors low.
Most washers benefit from a deep clean every one to three months. Clean sooner if you notice odors or buildup.
Can I use vinegar to clean my washing machine?
Yes. Vinegar is a common, inexpensive option for cleaning; it helps remove residue and odors. Do not mix with bleach, and use it in a hot cycle for best results.
Vinegar is a common, affordable option for cleaning. Do not mix it with bleach and run a hot cycle.
Is it safe to use bleach for cleaning a washing machine?
Bleach can be used in some cycles but never mix with vinegar. Check the manual for compatibility with your model and avoid repeated use that can damage seals.
Bleach can be used in some cycles but never with vinegar. Check your manual for model compatibility.
Why does my washing machine odor persist after cleaning?
Persistent odors usually come from mold in the door gasket or residue in the detergent drawer. Ensure thorough drying after cleaning and consider an extra rinse or baking soda if needed.
Odors typically come from mold in the gasket or residue in the drawer. Dry thoroughly and consider another rinse if needed.
Should I clean the drain pump filter?
If your model has a drain pump filter, clean it monthly or as recommended by the manual. A clogged filter can cause drainage issues and odors.
If your model has a drain filter, clean it monthly to prevent drainage issues.
What’s the difference between front-load and top-load cleaning routines?
Front-load washers can accumulate more mold in gaskets; front-load care emphasizes gasket cleaning and door-opening after cycles. Top-loads are generally easier to access, but still benefit from cleaning drawers and seals.
Front-loads need gasket cleaning and air drying; top-loads are easier to access but still need drawer and seal cleaning.
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The Essentials
- Run a hot cleaning cycle with vinegar to dissolve buildup.
- Wipe and dry the gasket and drawer to prevent mold.
- Second cycle with baking soda helps deodorize if odors persist.
- Maintain a monthly cleaning schedule to preserve efficiency.
