How to Clean a Washing Machine Top Loader: A Step-by-Step Guide
A comprehensive guide to cleaning a top-loading washing machine, removing odors, preventing mold, and maintaining performance with safe, practical cleaning methods.
To clean a top-loading washer, unplug it and move laundry aside, remove the detergent dispenser, and scrub it. Run a hot water cycle with a cleaning solution (bleach or white vinegar, depending on drum material), then scrub the drum and agitator with a brush. Finish with a rinse cycle and wipe dry.
Why cleaning a top-loader matters
A top-loading washing machine handles daily laundry, and its drum, agitator, and seals can accumulate soap scum, mineral deposits, and mildew over time. Regular cleaning helps prevent unpleasant odors, ensures more effective washing, and can extend the life of the appliance by reducing strain on components like the pump and seals. When the drum stays cleaner, garments come out fresher and contact with any residual residue is minimized. This upkeep aligns with best practices for home appliances and aligns with the guidance offered by the Best Washing Machine team on appliance maintenance.
In many homes, the washer is a workhorse that runs daily, and the top-loader configuration presents unique areas for buildup—especially around the agitator shaft, detergent dispenser, and door gasket. A careful, regular cleaning routine keeps these components functioning smoothly. For homeowners and renters, establishing a predictable schedule makes maintenance manageable and reduces the risk of costly repairs in the future.
Frequency and indicators of the need for cleaning
How often you clean depends on usage, water hardness, and detergent type. In high-traffic households or with hard water, a deep clean once a month is reasonable, while light use may suffice every 2-3 months. Look for signs that your washer needs attention: persistent musty or sour odors, visible soap scum, residue on clothes, or slower draining. Even if you don’t see obvious buildup, quarterly maintenance is a solid habit for preventing long-term issues. The team at Best Washing Machine emphasizes routine checks to catch leaks or mold early, protecting your laundry routine and the machine’s efficiency.
Tools and materials you’ll need for a thorough clean
Before you begin, gather essential items to support a safe, effective clean. Have rubber gloves to protect your skin, soft microfiber cloths for wiping, a non-abrasive scrub brush for the drum and dispenser, and a spray bottle or cup for applying cleaner. A small brush or old toothbrush helps reach tight spots around the dispenser and gasket. Optional but helpful are white vinegar, a mild detergent-safe washing machine cleaner, and a bucket for rinsing. Keep towels handy to dry surfaces and a fan or open window to improve ventilation during cleaning.
Deep-clean sequence: an overview you can follow
A comprehensive deep clean follows a logical sequence: prep and safety, remove and clean the detergent dispenser, choose an appropriate cleaning method (bleach or vinegar-based), run a hot cleaning cycle, scrub the drum and agitator, rinse thoroughly, and finally wipe down and dry the exterior and seals. This sequence targets every common buildup zone, from the dispenser to the drum. If your drum material is stainless steel, confirm compatibility with your chosen cleaner, and avoid mixing cleaners that can produce harmful fumes. A steady, patient approach yields the best results and minimizes risk of scrubbing damage.
Cleaning the detergent dispenser and tub
Detach the detergent dispenser if your model allows. Soak the dispenser in warm, soapy water to loosen soap scum and residue. Use a soft brush to scrub the nooks and crannies, then rinse thoroughly before reassembling. While the dispenser is out, wipe the surrounding housing and the tub opening to remove any dust and lint. This step prevents transfer of old residues into fresh loads and improves overall cleaning effectiveness.
Cleaning the drum, agitator, and door gasket
With the dispenser out, inspect the drum and agitator for soap scum and mineral deposits. Use a non-abrasive brush and a microfiber cloth to scrub visible residues, paying attention to crevices around the agitator base. If your model has a bellows-style door gasket, wipe it gently and dry it completely to prevent mold growth. After cleaning, run another hot rinse to flush out loosened debris. Dry all surfaces with a towel and leave the door ajar to promote air flow.
Odor control and mineral-deposit prevention
Odors often stem from trapped moisture and residue. For odor control, you can run a cycle with white vinegar or a dedicated washing machine cleaner, following the product’s directions. After cleaning, address mineral deposits by occasionally using a water-softening approach or a rinse with hot water and a mild cleaner. Regular maintenance, like leaving the door open after use and wiping the seal, helps keep odors at bay and reduces mineral buildup over time.
Safe maintenance and practical safety notes
Always unplug the unit before starting any cleaning, and never mix cleaning agents in the same load or cycle. If your drum has a porcelain surface, avoid abrasive tools that could scratch it. Maintain good ventilation to avoid inhaling fumes from cleaners. Finally, consult your washer’s manual for model-specific guidance, particularly when removing components like the detergent dispenser or accessing internal seals. A cautious, methodical approach reduces risk and yields better long-term results.
Tools & Materials
- Rubber gloves(Protect hands from cleaners and hot surfaces)
- Soft microfiber cloths(For wiping surfaces and drying)
- Non-abrasive scrub brush(Scrub drum, agitator, and dispenser areas)
- Old toothbrush(Tight spots around dispenser and gasket)
- Small bucket or basin(Rinse and soak parts as needed)
- Spray bottle with water or cleaner mix(Mist and rinse during scrubbing)
- White vinegar (optional)(Odor control and mineral removal)
- Mild washing-machine cleaner or non-chlorine cleaner (optional)(Follow product directions)
- Old towels or rags(Dry surfaces and catch drips)
Steps
Estimated time: 45-75 minutes
- 1
Unplug and prep the area
Begin by unplugging the washer to ensure electrical safety. Move laundry to another location and clear the surrounding area so you can access the top panel, dispenser, and gasket. This step prevents accidents and makes the subsequent steps smoother.
Tip: Keep a towel handy in case water drips when opening components. - 2
Remove and clean the detergent dispenser
If your model allows, remove the detergent dispenser. Soak it in warm, soapy water, then scrub with a soft brush to remove stubborn residue. Rinse thoroughly and dry before reinstalling.
Tip: Use an old toothbrush to reach tight corners in the dispenser cavity. - 3
Choose a cleaning method
Decide whether to use a bleach-based or vinegar-based cleaning method. Bleach is effective on color-safe drums, while vinegar is gentler and good for odor control. Do not mix cleaners in the same cycle and follow manufacturer guidance.
Tip: Never mix bleach with vinegar—this creates hazardous fumes. - 4
Run the cleaning cycle
Set the washer to a hot water cycle and add the chosen cleaner according to directions. If your model lacks a dedicated cleaner slot, add your cleaner to the drum or dispenser as appropriate. Pause mid-cycle if you need to scrub stubborn spots.
Tip: Pause the cycle mid-run to scrub the drum and agitator for better cleaning. - 5
Scrub the drum and gasket
While the cycle runs or after it finishes, scrub the drum interior and agitator with the brush. Wipe the door gasket, paying attention to folds where mold can hide. Rinse away loosened residue with hot water.
Tip: Trust your senses—if a strong odor remains, repeat a short hot rinse with cleaner. - 6
Rinse, dry, and ventilate
Run a final rinse cycle to flush out any cleaner residue. Wipe all surfaces dry and leave the door slightly ajar to promote air-drying. This helps prevent future mildew and ensures the area dries quickly.
Tip: Place a towel under the door edge to absorb drips and speed drying.
FAQ
Can I use vinegar to clean a top-loader washer?
White vinegar is effective for deodorizing and light residue removal. Do not use vinegar with bleach in the same cycle and follow your model’s cleaning guidelines.
Yes, white vinegar can help deodorize, but don’t mix it with bleach and follow your washer’s manual.
Is it safe to use bleach in a top-loading washer?
Bleach can be used if your drum and gasket are compatible and your manual allows it. Always run a thorough rinse afterward and avoid mixing with other cleaners.
Bleach is safe if your machine supports it; always rinse well and avoid mixing with vinegar.
How often should I perform a deep clean?
For high-use households or hard-water areas, aim for monthly deep cleans. For lighter use, every 2-3 months is usually sufficient.
Depends on use and water quality—monthly for heavy use, every few months otherwise.
What if I notice mold in the gasket?
Wipe the gasket with a solution of diluted cleaner, then dry thoroughly. Consider running an extra rinse and leaving the door open after use.
Mold in the seal needs quick cleaning and thorough drying; don’t ignore it.
Can I remove the detergent dispenser myself?
Many top-loaders allow dispenser removal for a deeper clean. Soak and scrub the parts, then reinstall carefully.
You can remove it for a deeper clean; check your model’s instructions.
My washer still smells after cleaning—what now?
If odors linger, check hoses, drum, and gasket for hidden residue or mold. Run an extra rinse or consider a professional check if it persists.
If odors linger, there might be hidden residue—try an extra rinse and clean the hoses.
Watch Video
The Essentials
- Unplug before cleaning to stay safe.
- Dispenser removal aids deeper cleaning and odor control.
- Hot cycles with the right cleaner remove buildup effectively.
- Dry seals and leave the door ajar to prevent mold.
