Just like other appliances washing machines need to be cleaned to keep them in proper working order. Residue like softener and detergent build up and soap scum, dirt, body oil, hair, and mold and mildew accumulate over time, this can cause odors and leave your laundry unclean.

Here are some tips on how to clean your washing machine but refer to your owner’s manual for instructions for your specific make and model.

Wipe Down the Outside

Use a damp microfiber cloth and wipe down the exterior of the machine to remove any grime that may have accumulated. Pay particular attention to areas around the control panel and the door seal, which are prone to dirt and grime.

Clean the Detergent Dispenser

Most newer washing machines have removable dispensers. Remove the dispenser and wash it in the kitchen sink, use a cloth and dish detergent and give it a good scrubbing, set it aside to dry and use the cloth to clean inside the dispenser drawer, wipe away any gunk and buildup, use a toothbrush to clean hard to reach areas.

Clean the Door Seal & Drum

Fill a spray bottle with a mixture of white vinegar and water, spray the drum, door and seal and then wipe it all down. Pay particular attention to the door seal on a front-load washer, mold, mildew, and debris collect in that area.

Run The Cleaning Cycle

Most washing machines have a cleaning cycle, pour bleach into the detergent dispenser, and run it though the cleaning cycle. If your machine does not have a cleaning cycle run it through a regular wash cycle using bleach and hot water. When the cleaning cycle has finished run the washer through a regular cycle to remove any remaining bleach.

Clean the Drain Tube & Filter

Refer to the owner’s manual to locate the washing machines filter, remove the filter and soak it in hot soapy water for about 30 minutes, then rinse it with hot water and set it aside to dry completely before putting it back into the washing machine. Note that some newer washing machines don’t have a removable filter.

The drain tube can become clogged with debris over time, you can remove the drain tube and clean it in the bathtub or kitchen sink using a cloth, vinegar, and a toothbrush. Use a spray bottle filled with a mixture of vinegar and water, spray it into the tube and let it sit for about 30 minutes, flush the hose with hot water and rinse the hose thoroughly, use the cloth to clean the outside of the hose, rinse it and allow it to dry before reattaching it to the washing machine.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

Promptly Remove Laundry: When a wash cycle has finished, remove the laundry promptly to prevent a musty odor from developing in the washtub.

Remove Debris: Pet hair, human hair and other debris can be left behind after a wash cycle has finished. If you have a pet that sheds you may notice a lot of hair inside the wash drum. Use a towel to dry the inside of the washer completely or leave the door open until it is dry, then, use your vacuum’s soft brush attachment to vacuum the inside of the washer.

Dry the Gasket: If you have a front-loading machine, dry the door gasket after each use to prevent mold and mildew buildup.

Leave the Door Open Between Uses: Leave the washing machine door open after each use to allow it to dry out. This is especially important for front load washers because the gaskets tend to remain damp which can cause mold and mildew to grow.

Use the Right Kind & Amount of Laundry Detergent

High-efficiency (HE) washers require HE detergents. Refer to the owner’s manual so you are using the proper detergents, fabric softeners and other products. Using the wrong products can cause residue buildup and odors. Use only the amount of detergent that is recommended, too much detergent can result in detergent residue because it has not been completely rinsed out of the clothes, it also creates an excess of suds that can prevent your garments from rubbing against one another which helps get them clean.