How to Clean Your Washing Machine: Complete Guide for Top-Load and Front-Load Machines

Over time, washing machines can accumulate dirt, detergent residue, and mold, leading to unpleasant odors and clothes that don’t feel clean. Regular cleaning is essential to keep your machine hygienic and your laundry fresh. This guide explains how to clean both top-loading and front-loading washing machines, using either commercial cleaners or home remedies.

Cleaning a Top-Load Washing Machine

Materials Needed:

• Distilled white vinegar

• Washing machine cleaning tablets

• Baking soda

• Multi-purpose cleaner

• Spray bottle

Steps:

1. Prepare a vinegar solution: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and shake well.

2. Clean seals and interior: Spray the solution on the inside drum and door seals, then remove any dirt from filters or drainage areas.

3. Clean the detergent dispenser: Remove and soak in hot water mixed with vinegar and baking soda to remove residue from detergents and fabric softeners. Avoid using vinegar on rubber hoses, as it may cause cracking over time.

4. Deep clean the drum:

   • Add 2 cups of vinegar to the detergent dispenser and run a hot water cycle.

   • Afterward, add ½ cup of baking soda to the drum and run another hot water cycle.

   • For non-high-efficiency machines, double the vinegar quantity.

5. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before using any cleaning method.

Cleaning a Front-Load Washing Machine

Materials Needed:

• Liquid chlorine bleach

• Distilled white vinegar

• Microfiber cloth

• Spray bottle

• Large bowl

Steps:

1. Clean the drain filter: Locate the small front panel near the bottom, remove the filter, rinse it, and place a bowl underneath to catch excess water.

2. Remove remaining water: Run a spin cycle to empty the drum.

3. Prepare a vinegar solution: Mix 2 parts water with 1 part vinegar in a spray bottle.

4. Clean the rubber seal (gasket): Spray along the door seal, let it sit for 1 minute, then wipe with a microfiber cloth. Make sure the seal is dry before moving on.

5. Use bleach for deep cleaning: Pour liquid bleach into the detergent drawer up to the max line.

   • If your machine has a "self-clean" cycle, use it; otherwise, choose the longest and hottest wash cycle.

   • Never leave bleach sitting in the drum.

6. Wipe down residues: After the cycle, use a microfiber cloth to clean any leftover residue. Run an additional rinse/spin cycle if needed to remove remaining bleach or mold.

7. Dry the machine: Leave the door and detergent drawer open to allow air circulation.

8. Check the pump filter: Usually located at the front bottom behind a panel. Clean any debris.

9. Persistent odor or mold: Contact a professional technician if odors or mold remain after several cleanings.

How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?

• Ideally, once a month.

• Treat cleaning as preventive maintenance, not only as a reaction to problems.

• Signs your washing machine needs cleaning:

  • Musty or moldy smell on clothes

  • Residue or hair/fur around the door gasket

  • Visible buildup in detergent drawer or drum

Neglecting cleaning can cause:

• Clogged internal parts

• Uneven water temperatures

• Lingering odors in subsequent washes

Tips to Maintain a Clean Washing Machine

• Leave the door slightly open between washes for air circulation to dry the drum and prevent mold.

• Wipe seals regularly: Moisture collects around the rubber door gasket; wipe it dry.

• Check the drain and filters: Clean visible dirt and debris to prevent it from reaching the main drain filter.