A washing machine cleans everything else in your home, but it needs cleaning itself too. Left unchecked, dirt, detergent residue, and moisture build up inside, leading to musty odors and even affecting how clean your laundry actually gets. Here’s a straightforward guide to cleaning yours properly, whatever type you have.
Why Clean Your Washing Machine?
- Better cleaning performance
- No more musty odors
- Prevents mold and mildew growth
- Extends the machine’s lifespan
What You’ll Need
- White vinegar: A natural cleaner that cuts through residue and odor effectively.
- Baking soda: Helps lift stains, neutralize odors, and acts as a gentle abrasive.
- Mild detergent: For the exterior, mixed with water.
- Soft cloths or sponges: For wiping down interior and exterior surfaces.
- A small brush or old toothbrush: For hard-to-reach spots like the detergent tray and rubber seals.
Front-Load vs. Top-Load: Different Machines, Different Steps
Front-loading and top-loading machines need slightly different cleaning approaches, mainly because of the door seal and detergent tray unique to front-loaders. Here’s how to clean each properly.
Cleaning a Front-Load Washing Machine
- Wipe down the rubber door seal, removing any visible residue or mold.
- Remove the detergent dispenser tray and clean it separately.
- Run a hot water cycle with a washing machine cleaner or a mix of white vinegar and water.
- After the cycle, wipe down the drum and door glass with a vinegar-soaked cloth.
- Leave the door open afterward to let it air out and dry properly.
Cleaning a Top-Load Washing Machine
- Fill the drum with hot water and add a washing machine cleaner or a cup of white vinegar.
- Run a complete cycle on the hottest setting.
- Wipe down the drum and other internal parts with a vinegar-soaked cloth once finished.
- Run a second cycle with plain hot water to rinse everything through.
Removing Limescale and Hard Water Deposits
Hard water minerals build up inside a machine over time, affecting how well it runs. To clear it out:
- Fill the drum with equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Run a hot water cycle with no laundry inside.
- Wipe down the drum and affected areas with a vinegar-soaked cloth once done.
- Repeat if buildup is significant.
Don’t Skip the Exterior
- Wipe the exterior regularly with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
- Pay extra attention to control panels and buttons.
- Dry the exterior thoroughly afterward to prevent water damage.
Cleaning your washing machine monthly or quarterly, depending on how often you use it, keeps it running efficiently and your laundry genuinely fresh. Always check your specific model’s manual too, since some manufacturers have their own recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my washing machine?
Monthly to every three months, depending on usage. Regular cleaning prevents buildup and keeps performance consistent.
Can I use bleach to clean my washing machine?
Yes, particularly for tough stains or mold, but follow your manufacturer’s instructions and use it sparingly — excessive bleach can damage the machine over time.
Are there specific cleaning products made for washing machines?
Yes, purpose-built washing machine cleaners exist and work well. Natural alternatives like white vinegar and baking soda are also genuinely effective.
Can I just run a cycle with water and skip the cleaning agents?
Water alone rinses the machine but won’t fully remove residue or odor-causing buildup. A cleaning agent like vinegar or mild detergent gets a more thorough result.
Should I leave the washing machine door open after use?
Yes. It lets air circulate, helps the drum dry, and reduces the chance of mold, mildew, and musty odors developing.
Do I need to clean a brand-new washing machine?
It’s worth doing. A quick clean before first use removes manufacturing residue or dust that accumulated during storage.
Can I clean the detergent tray without removing it?
It’s best removed and cleaned separately, but if that’s not possible, a small brush and warm water can clean it reasonably well in place.
Is cleaning the exterior really necessary?
Yes — dirt and residue on the exterior can transfer onto clothes, and regular wiping with mild detergent keeps it looking and functioning well.
Keep the Rest of Your Laundry Routine Fresh
A clean washing machine is one piece of a well-maintained laundry routine. Pair it with our full cleaning checklist, or bring in a professional cleaning service for the deeper appliance and home maintenance you don’t have time for.