How to Clean Washing Machine: A Comprehensive Guide 2025
Wondering How to Clean Washing Machine? maintaining fresh, odor-free laundry and extending the appliance’s lifespan. Over time, dirt, detergent residue, and mold can accumulate, affecting performance and clothing cleanliness. This detailed guide outlines step-by-step instructions on how to clean washing machine, including natural and commercial cleaning methods, maintenance tips, and expert advice to keep your machine in top condition.
Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Is Important
Regularly cleaning a washing machine prevents the buildup of grime, bacteria, and mildew, which can transfer to your clothes and cause unpleasant odors. A dirty machine may also reduce washing efficiency, leading to higher energy consumption and potential repairs. According to Consumer Reports, neglecting maintenance can shorten a washing machine’s lifespan. By dedicating time to clean a washing machine, you ensure optimal performance and hygienic laundry results.
Supplies Needed to Clean a Washing Machine
Before you start cleaning your washing machine, gather these supplies:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Microfiber cloths
- Toothbrush or small scrub brush
- Mild dish soap
- Spray bottle
- Commercial washing machine cleaner (optional, e.g., Affresh or OxiClean)
- Bucket (for soaking removable parts)
Having these items ready streamlines the process and ensures a thorough washing machine cleaning.
Step-by-Step Guide How to Clean Washing Machine
1. Clean the Washing Machine Drum
The drum is where most residue accumulates, making it a critical area to focus on when cleaning a washing machine. Follow these steps:
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Run a Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar: Set your machine to the hottest water setting and largest load size. Add 4 cups of white vinegar to the drum (or detergent dispenser for front-loaders). Run a complete cycle without clothes. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that breaks down detergent buildup and odors, as noted by Good Housekeeping.
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Add Baking Soda for Extra Cleaning: After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda into the drum and run another hot water cycle. Baking soda neutralizes odors and tackles remaining grime.
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Wipe Down the Drum: Use a microfiber cloth dampened with a vinegar-water solution (1:1 ratio) to wipe the drum’s interior, focusing on crevices where mold may hide.
This process ensures a spotless drum, leaving your washing machine clean and odor-free.
2. Clean the Detergent Dispenser
Detergent and fabric softener residues often build up in the dispenser, creating a breeding ground for mold. To clean the washing machine dispenser:
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Remove the Dispenser: Most dispensers are removable; check your machine’s manual if unsure. Soak the tray in a bucket of warm water mixed with dish soap for 10–15 minutes.
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Scrub and Rinse: Use a toothbrush to scrub away residue, then rinse thoroughly. Dry with a microfiber cloth before reinserting.
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Wipe the Dispenser Compartment: Use a vinegar-soaked cloth to clean the compartment where the dispenser sits.
For stubborn buildup, The Spruce recommends using a commercial cleaner like Affresh for deeper cleaning.
3. Clean the Washing Machine Gasket (Front-Load Machines)
The rubber gasket in front-load machines traps moisture, leading to mold and mildew. To clean a washing machine gasket:
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Inspect and Wipe: Pull back the gasket and wipe it with a cloth soaked in a 1:1 vinegar-water solution. Pay attention to folds where mold hides.
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Scrub Stubborn Spots: Use a toothbrush dipped in the solution to scrub black spots or mildew.
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Dry Thoroughly: Leave the door open after cleaning to air-dry the gasket and prevent future mold growth.
Regular gasket maintenance is crucial for washing machine cleaning, especially for front-loaders prone to moisture retention.
4. Clean the Filter (If Applicable)
Many washing machines have a filter that traps lint and debris. To clean the washing machine filter:
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Locate the Filter: Check your manual to find the filter, usually at the bottom front of the machine.
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Remove and Clean: Place a towel underneath to catch water. Remove the filter and rinse it under warm water, scrubbing gently to remove debris.
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Reinstall: Ensure the filter is dry before reinserting it securely.
Cleaning the filter monthly enhances machine efficiency, as advised by Bob Vila.
5. Clean the Washing Machine Exterior
The exterior of your machine also needs attention to maintain its appearance. To clean a washing machine exterior:
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Wipe with Soapy Water: Use a cloth dampened with mild dish soap and water to clean the control panel, door, and sides.
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Dry with a Microfiber Cloth: Prevent water spots by drying thoroughly.
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Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stick to mild cleaners to protect the machine’s finish.
A sparkling exterior completes the washing machine cleaning process.
Using Commercial Cleaners to Clean a Washing Machine
For a hassle-free option, commercial cleaners like Affresh or OxiClean are designed specifically for cleaning a washing machine. These products are formulated to tackle tough buildup and odors. Follow the package instructions, typically involving placing a tablet or powder in the drum and running a hot water cycle. According to HGTV, these cleaners are especially effective for heavily soiled machines or as part of monthly maintenance.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Washing Machine Clean
To minimize the need for deep washing machine cleaning, adopt these habits:
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Leave the Door Open: After each load, leave the door ajar to allow air circulation and prevent mold, especially in front-load machines.
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Use the Right Detergent Amount: Excess detergent leads to residue buildup. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
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Run a Maintenance Cycle Monthly: Use vinegar or a commercial cleaner to keep the drum fresh.
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Check Hoses and Connections: Inspect hoses for leaks or wear to prevent water damage, as recommended by Family Handyman.
Consistent maintenance ensures your machine stays clean and efficient.
How Often Should You Clean a Washing Machine?
The frequency of cleaning a washing machine depends on usage and environment. Experts recommend:
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Monthly Deep Cleaning: Run a vinegar or commercial cleaner cycle to prevent buildup.
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Weekly Wipe-Downs: Clean the gasket, dispenser, and exterior to maintain hygiene.
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Filter Cleaning: Check and clean the filter every 1–2 months.
High-use households or humid climates may require more frequent washing machine cleaning to combat mold and odors.
Troubleshooting Common Washing Machine Cleaning Issues
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Persistent Odors: If odors remain after cleaning, run an additional cycle with 1 cup of bleach (check your manual first) or consult a professional.
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Mold in Gasket: For stubborn mold, apply a paste of baking soda and water, let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
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Clogged Filter: If water drains slowly, clean the filter more frequently or check for blockages in the drain hose.
For complex issues, refer to your machine’s manual or contact a technician.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About How to Clean Washing Machine
Cleaning a washing machine is a crucial maintenance task, but it often raises questions about the best methods, frequency, and materials to use. Below are answers to the most common questions about how to clean a washing machine, incorporating the keyword naturally and linking to reputable sources for further reading.
1. How Often Should I Clean My Washing Machine?
Answer: You should clean a washing machine at least once a month to prevent detergent buildup, mold, and odors. For high-use households or humid environments, consider cleaning every two weeks. Weekly wipe-downs of the gasket and dispenser also help maintain hygiene. According to Good Housekeeping, regular maintenance extends your machine’s lifespan.
2. What Is the Best Way to Clean a Washing Machine?
Answer: The most effective way to clean a washing machine involves running a hot water cycle with 4 cups of white vinegar to break down residue, followed by a cycle with ½ cup of baking soda to neutralize odors. Wipe the drum, gasket, and dispenser with a vinegar-water solution. For a deeper clean, use commercial cleaners like Affresh, as recommended by The Spruce.
3. Can I Use Bleach to Clean a Washing Machine?
Answer: Yes, bleach can be used to clean a washing machine, especially for persistent odors or mold. Run a hot water cycle with 1 cup of bleach (ensure your machine is bleach-safe by checking the manual). However, use bleach sparingly, as frequent use may damage components. Bob Vila suggests alternating bleach with vinegar for balanced cleaning.
4. How Do I Clean the Gasket on a Front-Load Washing Machine?
Answer: To clean a washing machine gasket, pull back the rubber seal and wipe it with a cloth soaked in a 1:1 vinegar-water solution. Use a toothbrush to scrub mold or mildew in the folds. Dry the gasket thoroughly and leave the door open to prevent future mold growth. HGTV emphasizes regular gasket cleaning for front-loaders.
5. Why Does My Washing Machine Smell Bad Even After Cleaning?
Answer: Persistent odors after cleaning a washing machine may result from hidden mold in the gasket, clogged filters, or detergent buildup in the drain hose. Try running an additional cycle with bleach or a commercial cleaner. Ensure the machine dries completely between uses by leaving the door open. If the smell persists, consult a technician, as advised by Consumer Reports.
6. Can I Use Vinegar and Baking Soda Together to Clean a Washing Machine?
Answer: While vinegar and baking soda are effective individually, they should not be used together in the same cycle, as they neutralize each other’s cleaning properties. To clean a washing machine, run a hot water cycle with vinegar first, then a separate cycle with baking soda. Family Handyman recommends this sequential approach for optimal results.
7. How Do I Clean the Filter in My Washing Machine?
Answer: To clean a washing machine filter, locate it (usually at the bottom front, per your manual), place a towel underneath to catch water, and remove the filter. Rinse it under warm water, scrubbing gently to remove lint and debris. Reinstall the filter once dry. Clean the filter every 1–2 months to maintain efficiency, as noted by The Spruce.
8. Are Commercial Washing Machine Cleaners Better Than Vinegar?
Answer: Commercial cleaners like Affresh or OxiClean are formulated to tackle tough buildup and may be more convenient for cleaning a washing machine. However, vinegar is a cost-effective, natural alternative that works well for regular maintenance. For heavily soiled machines, commercial cleaners may offer a deeper clean, as suggested by Good Housekeeping.
9. How Can I Prevent Mold in My Washing Machine?
Answer: To prevent mold when cleaning a washing machine, leave the door open after each load to allow air circulation, especially in front-loaders. Use the correct amount of detergent to avoid residue buildup, and run a monthly maintenance cycle with vinegar or a commercial cleaner. Wiping the gasket weekly also helps, according to HGTV.
10. Is It Safe to Clean a Washing Machine with Natural Ingredients?
Answer: Yes, natural ingredients like vinegar and baking soda are safe and effective for cleaning a washing machine. They disinfect, deodorize, and break down residue without harsh chemicals. However, avoid overuse to prevent potential wear on rubber seals. Bob Vila endorses natural cleaners for eco-friendly maintenance.
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Conclusion
Learning how to clean washing machine is a simple yet vital task for maintaining laundry hygiene and machine longevity. By following this guide—cleaning the drum, dispenser, gasket, filter, and exterior—you can keep your appliance in pristine condition. Incorporate monthly maintenance cycles and daily habits like leaving the door open to prevent buildup. With regular washing machine cleaning, you’ll enjoy fresh laundry and a reliable machine for years to come.
For more home maintenance tips, explore resources like Good Housekeeping or The Spruce. If you encounter persistent issues, consult your washing machine’s manufacturer or a professional technician.
