how to clean washing machine

How to Clean Washing Machine

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A washing machine is supposed to clean your clothes—but over time, detergent residue, fabric softener buildup, dirt, lint, and even mold can turn your appliance into a smelly, germ-infested environment. The good news? Learning how to clean washing machine properly is easier than you think. With routine care and the right cleaning method, you can keep your washer fresh, odor-free, and running efficiently.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to clean your washing machine, including top loaders, how to deep clean washing machine interiors, and even how to clean a smelly washing machine using simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda.

Why You Need to Clean Your Washing Machine Regularly

Many homeowners assume washers stay clean on their own because they constantly run with water and soap. Unfortunately, the reality is different. Here’s what happens inside your machine:

  • Detergent residue forms sticky buildup
  • Fabric softener clogs components and attracts grime
  • Moisture promotes mold and mildew growth
  • Hard water minerals coat internal parts
  • Lint, hair, and dirt collect in hidden corners

When left unaddressed, these lead to:

  • Unpleasant odors
  • Dirty-looking laundry
  • Mold stains
  • Poor drainage
  • Higher energy use
  • A shorter machine lifespan

Regular cleaning prevents these issues and keeps your washer performing like new.

How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?

To maintain a clean and efficient machine:

  • Basic cleaning: Once every 2–4 weeks
  • Deep cleaning: Every 2–3 months
  • Gasket & detergent tray wiping: Weekly or biweekly
  • Cleaning after washing heavily soiled clothes: As needed

Consistency is more important than frequency—maintain a schedule that fits your household usage.

How to Clean Washing Machine (Works for Most Models)

This general method works for both front-load and top-load washers. It’s also safe for HE (high efficiency) machines.

What You’ll Need:

  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Small brush or old toothbrush
  • Hot water

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Clean the Drum with Hot Water and Vinegar

If you’re wondering how to clean washing machine with vinegar, this is the simplest and most effective method.

  1. Set your machine to the hottest, longest cycle.
  2. Add 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum.
  3. Start the cycle and let the vinegar break down dirt, mold, and soap residue.

Tip: Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and disinfectant—perfect for removing odors and buildup.

2. Add Baking Soda for Extra Cleaning Power

Once the vinegar cycle finishes:

  1. Sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda into the drum.
  2. Run a quick hot-water cycle again.

This helps neutralize odors and scrub away remaining grime.

3. Clean the Rubber Gasket (Front Loaders)

The gasket is the number one reason for smelly washers.

  • Pull back the rubber seal.
  • Wipe out trapped hair, coins, lint, and moisture.
  • Spray vinegar and wipe again.

This step is essential for how to clean a smelly washing machine effectively.

4. Clean the Detergent Drawer

Detergent trays often hide mold and slimy buildup.

  1. Pull out the drawer (most can be removed).
  2. Soak it in hot water with vinegar.
  3. Scrub with a brush.
  4. Wipe the inside compartment before reinserting.

5. Clean the Filter (Especially Front Load Washers)

The drain filter catches lint, coins, hair ties, and more.

  • Locate it near the bottom of your machine.
  • Place a shallow tray under it to catch water.
  • Remove, rinse, and scrub.
  • Reinstall securely.

6. Wipe the Exterior

A clean machine outside helps maintain hygiene inside.

Use a microfiber cloth with mild soap or vinegar solution to wipe:

  • Top and sides
  • Buttons and control panel
  • Lid or door

How to Clean Washing Machine Top Loader (Specific Method)

If you want to know how to clean washing machine top loader, follow this method tailored for top-load units.

Method for Top Load Washers:

  1. Fill the washer with hot water (clean cycle or drum clean mode if available).
  2. Add 1 liter of vinegar and let the machine agitate for a minute.
  3. Pause the cycle for 1 hour and let the vinegar soak.
  4. Add 1 cup of baking soda, let it dissolve, and run the full cycle.
  5. Wipe the agitator, rim, and underside of the lid with vinegar solution.

Top loaders are easier to clean manually because most parts are accessible from above.

How to Deep Clean Washing Machine (For Heavy Odors or Mold)

For machines that haven’t been cleaned for months—or years—use this deep-clean routine.

What You Need:

  • Vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Hydrogen peroxide (optional)
  • Scrub brush

Steps:

  1. Run a vinegar wash as described earlier.
  2. Scrub the drum manually with a soft brush using vinegar + baking soda paste.
  3. Clean the detergent tray and gasket thoroughly.
  4. If there is mold:
    • Spray hydrogen peroxide
    • Let sit for 10 minutes
    • Wipe clean
  5. Run a final hot-water rinse cycle.

This removes stubborn grime and completely refreshes your washer.

How to Clean a Smelly Washing Machine (Odor-Focused Routine)

If your washer still smells after a regular clean, try this:

Odor Removal Steps:

  • Run a hot cycle with 2 cups vinegar
  • Sprinkle ½ cup baking soda in the drum and run a short cycle
  • Clean mold-prone areas:
    • Door gasket
    • Detergent tray
    • Filter
  • Leave the door open after every wash
  • Wipe moisture after each cycle

Smells usually come from leftover moisture and mold, so drying the machine after use is crucial.

How to Maintain a Clean Washing Machine Long-Term

To avoid repeating deep cleans too often:

Do These Weekly:

  • Wipe the gasket
  • Leave the door open
  • Remove lint from the filter

Do These Monthly:

  • Run a vinegar cleaning cycle
  • Check detergent tray for buildup

Avoid These to Prevent Odors and Buildup:

  • Do not use too much detergent
  • Do not leave wet clothes inside
  • Do not close the door immediately after washing

These simple habits will significantly extend your machine’s lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can vinegar damage my washing machine? No. Vinegar is safe for most washers when used in moderation. It helps dissolve minerals, soap residue, and mildew.

2. Can baking soda and vinegar be used together? Not at the same time in one cycle. Use vinegar first, baking soda after.

3. Why does my washing machine still smell? Likely due to mold in hidden parts like gaskets, filters, or detergent trays—do a deeper clean.

4. How do I know it’s time to deep clean my washing machine? If your clothes smell musty, the washer has visible buildup, or water drains slowly, it’s time.

Knowing how to clean washing machine properly saves you money, protects your appliance, and ensures your clothes always come out fresh. Whether you’re learning how to clean your washing machine for regular maintenance, figuring out how to deep clean washing machine interiors, or looking to fix odors with how to clean a smelly washing machine, these simple steps will keep your appliance in top shape.

With regular care, your washing machine will stay fresh, efficient, and odor-free for many years.