How to Clean a Washing Machine

It seems odd that a machine designed to clean clothes would need cleaning itself, but detergent residue, lint, and moisture build up inside and can cause musty smells. A regular cleaning routine keeps your washer fresh and your laundry smelling the way it should.

Run a Cleaning Cycle

Check your manual first, since many machines have a dedicated tub-clean cycle and specific product recommendations. Run the cycle with the drum empty, using one of these:

• A commercial washing machine cleaner tablet or powder
• Chlorine bleach, typically about half a cup to one cup in the bleach dispenser
• White vinegar, about two cups, if your manual allows it

Use only one cleaner per cycle. Never combine bleach with vinegar or ammonia-based products, which can release toxic gases. If you want to use both bleach and vinegar, run them in separate cycles with a plain rinse cycle in between.

Choose the hottest, longest setting available. With a top-loader, you can pause the cycle once the tub fills and let the solution soak for about an hour before finishing.

Scrub the Hidden Spots

1. Remove the detergent, softener, and bleach dispensers if they pull out. Soak them in warm, soapy water and scrub with an old toothbrush.
2. Wipe inside the dispenser housing, where mildew likes to grow.
3. On a front-loader, gently pull back the rubber door gasket and wipe out lint, hair, and grime trapped in the folds. A mildew cleaner or diluted bleach on a cloth helps with black spots. Wear gloves and ventilate the room.
4. Wipe around the lid or door, the rim of the tub, and the exterior of the machine.
5. On a top-loader, also wipe under the rim and around the agitator, where residue and lint tend to collect out of sight.

Clear the Drain Pump Filter

Many front-load washers have a small filter behind a panel near the bottom that catches coins, buttons, and lint. Unplug the machine first. Lay towels on the floor and keep a shallow pan ready, because water will come out. Follow your manual to drain the hose and unscrew the filter, then clear debris, rinse it, and screw it back in tightly so it doesn’t leak.

Prevent Odors Between Cleanings

• Leave the door or lid open after each load so the drum can dry.
• Move wet clothes to the dryer promptly.
• Measure detergent carefully. Too much leads to buildup.
• Use high-efficiency detergent if your washer is labeled HE.
• Wipe the door gasket dry after the last load of the day.

How Often to Do It

A monthly cleaning cycle works well for most households. If you run many loads each week, wash mostly in cold water, or notice a musty smell creeping back, clean it more often. Scrubbing the gasket and dispensers every month or two keeps the hidden spots from getting out of hand. If odors persist even after a thorough cleaning, or water isn’t draining well, have a technician check the drain hose and pump.