Cleaning Your Washing Machine

We spend a lot of money on our washing machines, so you want to care for them properly to keep them in good working condition.

Though most washing machines can be cleaned using the same basic steps, always refer to the care instructions for your specific model.

Wipe it Down

Wipe down the outside of the washing machine with a soft cloth, do not use abrasive or spray cleaners as they can damage the paint, plastic and panel surfaces.

Open the door and use a soft cloth to clean the drum, door, door liner and seal. A toothbrush works well to clean hard to reach areas. Lint, laundry detergent and debris can accumulate and cause buildup and odors. Wiping it down will prevent this from happening.

Run it Through the Cleaning Cycle

Most washers have a self-cleaning cycle that deep cleans the machine. You can add white vinegar or bleach during the cycle. Use one or the other, never mix vinegar and bleach. After running it through the cleaning cycle with bleach or white vinegar run it through a second time with just plain water.

If your washer does not have a self-cleaning cycle, select the large load setting and use hot water, add white vinegar or bleach and run it through a complete wash-and-rinse cycle. Once the cycle has finished, run it through again, this time without any added cleansers.

Clean the Dispenser

Remove the soap dispenser and fill the kitchen sink with warm water and a cup of white vinegar, soak the dispenser for 30 minutes and then clean it with a soft cloth, rinse it and return it to the washing machine.

Prevent Mildew

Front-loading washers are more susceptible to mildew but top-load washers can develop mildew as well. To prevent this, leave the washing machine door open for a few hours after each use, leaving the door open allows the interior of the washer to air dry, which protects against mold growth.

Keep a towel handy to quickly dry the inside of the machine. Remove clothes promptly after the wash cycle has finished, this will prevent moisture from building up which can cause odors and mildew.