How to Clean a Washing Machine: Step-by-Step Guide for Top and Front Loaders
Banish soap scum and mildew to keep your washer fresh and extend its lifespan.
Even though your washing machine is designed to keep your clothes and linens sparkling fresh, the appliance itself needs regular cleaning to function at its best. Over time, soap scum, detergent residue, dirt, and even mold or mildew can accumulate inside your washer, causing unpleasant odors and diminishing performance. Whether you have a front-load or top-load washing machine, following proper cleaning techniques will help ensure consistently clean laundry and extend the life of your appliance.
Why You Should Clean Your Washing Machine
Neglecting your washing machine can lead to:
- Unpleasant odors from built-up mildew and detergent residue
- Poor washing results, leaving clothes less fresh or even stained
- Shortened machine lifespan and costly repairs
- Mold and bacteria growth in moist, soapy environments
Regular cleaning helps your machine work at peak efficiency, keeps clothes smelling fresh, and reduces maintenance costs.
How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?
For optimal results:
- Deep clean your washer once a month or every 30 wash cycles
- Wipe external and accessible areas weekly as part of laundry routines
More frequent cleaning may be needed in homes with hard water, heavy use, or if your machine develops odors.
Supplies You’ll Need
- Washing machine cleaning tablets or powder (such as affresh®)
- Liquid chlorine bleach (if recommended by your manual)
- White vinegar and baking soda (optional for natural cleaning)
- Soft, damp cloth or cleaning wipes
- Mild all-purpose cleaner or dish soap
- Old toothbrush or small cleaning brush
- Clean, dry towels
- Rubber gloves (optional for sensitive skin)
Step-by-Step Cleaning for Front-Load Washing Machines
1. Clean the Washer Drum
- Remove any laundry and ensure the drum is empty.
- Place a washing machine cleaning tablet directly into the drum, or use the amount recommended by the manufacturer.
- Run the dedicated cleaning cycle if your washer has one, or set a normal or heavy-duty wash cycle with hot water.
- To rinse away any remaining detergent or cleaner, run an additional rinse and spin cycle if machine instructions recommend it.
- Leave the washer door open to air dry the drum and combat lingering dampness.
2. Clean the Detergent Dispenser Drawer
- Pull out the dispenser drawer as far as it will go. Some models allow you to fully remove the drawer for easier cleaning.
- Soak removable parts in warm, soapy water.
- Use a brush or sponge to scrub away detergent and softener buildup.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry all parts before replacing the drawer.
3. Clean the Door Seal (Gasket)
- Check the rubber seal around the drum for moisture, hair, lint, or soap residue.
- Wipe the entire seal, inside folds and along edges, using a damp cloth and mild cleaner or vinegar solution.
- For stubborn mold or mildew, scrub gently with an old toothbrush dipped in diluted bleach (always wear gloves and ensure good ventilation).
- Wipe dry with a clean towel.
4. Clean the Outside of the Washer
- Use a soft, damp cloth and mild non-abrasive cleaner to wipe down control panels, the exterior body, and handles.
- Quickly address any detergent spills or dust to keep surfaces shining and prevent sticky residue.
5. Clean the Washer Filter (If Accessible)
- Locate the pump filter (often behind a small door at the front, base of the machine).
- Place a shallow tray or towel beneath to collect water that may drain out.
- Remove the filter and rinse under running water, clearing any debris or lint.
- Replace the filter and close the compartment securely.
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6. Prevent Odors Between Washes
- Leave the washer door and detergent drawer open between loads to allow interior drying and reduce dampness.
- Wipe away droplets or residue after each use.
- Run a warm or hot water cycle (without laundry) occasionally, especially if you usually wash on cold, to reduce buildup.
How to Deep Clean a Top-Load Washing Machine
1. Clean the Washer Tub
- Empty the washer completely.
- Add a cleaning tablet or the recommended amount of liquid chlorine bleach or cleaning powder straight into the drum.
- Select the self-clean or normal cycle with hot water, and let the full cycle run.
- Follow with a rinse and spin cycle for a thorough clean, especially if using bleach.
- Leave the lid open to allow the interior to dry.
2. Clean the Agitator (If Present)
- If your top-loader has a center agitator, check if the top cap is removable for easier cleaning.
- Use a damp cloth or brush to scrub inside and outside the agitator. Don’t force the cap if it doesn’t come off easily.
- Replace the cap securely before running future cycles.
3. Clean Dispensers and Lint Traps
- Remove, soak, and scrub detergent and fabric softener dispensers as you would in a front-loader.
- If your model has a lint trap, clean and rinse thoroughly to improve performance.
- Dry all pieces completely before reinstalling.
4. Clean Inside the Lid and Door
- Lift the lid to clean underneath it as well as the top rim of the drum where grime accumulates.
- Wipe with a cleaning wipe or a cloth dampened with mild cleaner or vinegar solution.
- Dry with a soft towel to prevent water spots and reduce dampness between loads.
5. Wipe Down Exterior Surfaces
- Clean knobs, controls, and the outside body using a soft, damp microfiber cloth or sponge and a mild soap solution.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage paint or plastic finishes.
Recommended Cleaning Products and Natural Alternatives
| Product Type | Best For | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Washing machine cleaning tablets (e.g., affresh®) | Heavy-duty cleaning, monthly maintenance | Place in empty drum, run clean cycle with hot water |
| Liquid chlorine bleach | Disinfecting, mold/mildew removal | Add to drum (not dispensers), run hot cycle, rinse well |
| White vinegar & baking soda | Deodorizing, natural cleaning | Add vinegar to drum, add baking soda, run hot cycle |
| Mild dish soap or all-purpose cleaner | Cleaning dispenser drawers, exteriors | Dilute with water, use on cloth or sponge |
| Old toothbrush | Agitator caps, seals, filter details | Scrub small, hard-to-reach areas |
Always consult your washing machine’s user manual for recommended cleaning agents, especially for use of bleach or commercial cleaners.
Tips to Prevent Odors and Keep Your Washer Fresh
- Always remove wet laundry promptly to prevent musty odors and mold.
- After each cycle, leave the door or lid cracked open to improve ventilation.
- Regularly clean the detergent dispenser, gasket, and drum.
- Wipe up spills or splashes immediately.
- Add an extra rinse cycle periodically to flush away detergent residue.
- If your washer is in a humid area, consider using a room dehumidifier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I clean my washing machine?
Most manufacturers and cleaning experts recommend a deep cleaning every month, or every 30 wash cycles, whichever comes first. Heavier usage may require more frequent cleaning, while occasional users can deep clean every 2–3 months.
Can I use vinegar and baking soda to clean my washer?
Yes, both substances are safe and effective for natural cleaning. Pour two cups of white vinegar into the drum and sprinkle in half a cup of baking soda, then run the machine on the hottest cycle. However, always check your machine’s manual for any specific warnings.
Is it safe to use bleach in my washing machine?
Bleach is a powerful disinfectant and removes tough mold and mildew, but check your owner’s manual for model-specific guidance. Bleach should generally be added directly to the drum, not to dispensers. Never mix with ammonia or other cleaning agents.
Why does my washer still smell after cleaning it?
Persistent odors may be due to hidden residue in the door seal, filter, or hose build-up. Be sure to thoroughly clean all accessible parts, leave the door open after cycles, and consult a professional if smells don’t resolve.
How can I prevent mold and mildew in my washing machine?
Leave the door or lid open between washes, promptly remove wet laundry, clean the door seal regularly, and run hot water cleaning cycles as needed. Keeping the interior dry is the most effective prevention method.
Closing Tips
A clean washing machine is key to fresher clothes, better cleaning performance, and a healthier home environment. Incorporate these steps into your routine and enjoy consistently clean results and worry-free laundry days.
References
- https://www.whirlpool.com/blog/washers-and-dryers/clean-washing-machine.html
- https://www.maytag.com/blog/washers-and-dryers/how-to-clean-washing-machine.html
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APMgc0UwOtU
- https://fcdrycleaners.com/blog/laundry/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine-a-step-by-step-guide/
- https://www.ahs.com/home-matters/repair-maintenance/how-to-clean-your-washer-and-dryer/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9BaB2PYuwzs
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