How to Clean a Washing Machine

Regularly cleaning your washing machine prevents mold growth, eliminates bad odors, and ensures your clothes come out truly clean, and it’s incredibly simple.

To maintain your machine effectively, clean the drum, wipe the rubber seal monthly, and clear out the dispensers. These maintenance steps prevent common problems while extending machine life.

What You Need

Cleaning Solution (Choose one)

• White Vinegar (undiluted)
• Baking soda (can be used with white vinegar)
• Store-bought washing machine cleaner
• Mold and mildew remover

Tools:

• Old toothbrush or soft nylon brush
• Spray bottle (for DIY solutions)
• Microfiber or lint-free cloth

The Drum

Follow these steps to clean your washing machine drum thoroughly:

1. Empty the washer completely.
2. Select the hottest water temperature setting.
3. Add your cleaner:
   • White vinegar: Pour 3 to 4 cups directly into the drum.
   • Baking soda and vinegar: Add 1/2 cup baking soda and 2 cups vinegar to the drum.
   • Commercial cleaner: Follow package instructions.
4. Run the cleaning or regular cycles if your machine doesn’t have a cleaning option.
5. Wipe down the inside of the drum with a microfiber cloth
6. Run a second rinse cycle to remove any remaining cleaning solution.
7. Leave the door open to allow the drum to air dry completely.

The Gasket

According to Richard Reid of Universal Restoration of North Florida, “The areas most susceptible to mold are any places where the humidity is elevated. This could be your garage, laundry room, or anywhere a water intrusion can occur (windows, doors, broken pipes, etc.).”

The rubber gasket or door seal is particularly prone to mold and mildew buildup, especially in front-loading machines. You should aim to clean this monthly.

1. Gently pull back the rubber seal and remove any visible debris.
2. Apply your cleaning solution. You can add vinegar to a spray bottle and use it undiluted to kill fungus.
3. Scrub the gasket thoroughly with a nylon brush or old toothbrush.
4. Wipe clean with the microfiber cloth.
5. Use a clean cloth to dry completely to prevent mold growth.

For more information about mold prevention and removal, check our detailed guide on “How to Clean Mold from Your Washing Machine.”

The Dispensers

Soap scum and fabric softener can build up in your washing machine’s dispensers. Cleaning these once a month will help make your machine work better and prevent mold growth. 

Detergent Drawer

Clean monthly to prevent soap residue and mold growth:

1. Remove the detergent drawer. If you’re not sure how consult your machine’s manual.
2. Soak in hot, soapy water to loosen buildup for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Scrub thoroughly with an old toothbrush, focusing on corners and crevices.
4. Dry completely before reinstalling.

Fabric Softener Dispenser

The cleaning process for your fabric softener dispenser varies by machine type. Here’s how to clean both front-loading and top-loading machines:

For Front-Loading Machines:

1. Remove the dispenser drawer, which is usually near the detergent compartment.
2. Get rid of buildup by soaking in hot, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Use a soft cloth or toothbrush with warm water and mild detergent to scrub away buildup.
4. Clean the drawer opening where it sits in the machine.
5. Dry completely and reinsert the drawer.

For Top-Loading Machines:

1. Pull the dispenser out of the agitator, if removable. Some models have a release tab.
   
   For built-in dispensers, clean them in place with a microfiber or soft cloth and cleaning solution.
2. Allow to soak in hot soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes for heavy residue.
3. Scrub thoroughly with a soft brush or cloth
4. Rinse well and dry completely before reassembling.

Quick tip: To help prevent buildup, ensure you avoid overfilling the dispenser.

The Filter

Your washing machine filter catches lint, debris, and small items that could damage your machine. Clean it every 4 to 6 weeks to prevent odors and maintain efficiency. If your machine drains slowly or clothes aren’t getting clean, then check for a clogged filter.

Location: Usually found at the front bottom of the machine behind a small access panel. In some top-loading machines, it may be located along the top rim of the tub or at the end of the drainage hose.

1. Prepare the area: Place towels or a shallow pan beneath the filter to catch water that will leak out when you remove it. Ensure your washing machine is turned off and unplugged before starting.
2. Locate and access the filter: On most front-loading machines, look for a small door at the bottom front of your washer. Some machines may require a screwdriver to open this panel.
3. Drain excess water: Some machines have a small drainage hose near the filter. Extend this hose and drain any water into a shallow container before removing the filter.
4. Remove the filter: Slowly unscrew the filter cap (usually turning counterclockwise). Be prepared for water to come out.
5. Clean thoroughly: Remove any debris like coins, buttons, hair, and lint from the filter. Rinse under hot water to remove soap scum and buildup.
6. Check for damage: Inspect the filter for cracks or damage that might require replacement.
7. Reinstall and test: Screw the filter back in securely. Make sure it’s properly aligned and tightened to prevent leaks. Run a short cycle without laundry to ensure everything is working properly with no leaks.

Quick tip: Some newer washing machine models have self-cleaning filters that don’t require manual cleaning. Check your owner’s manual to determine if your machine has this feature.

The Drip Pan

The drip pan (or drain pan) sits underneath many washing machines to catch leaks and prevent water damage. Because it collects moisture, it can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria if neglected. Check for damage or water buildup at least every 3 to 6 months.

1. Move your washing machine: Disconnect the power and water supply, then carefully slide or tilt the machine to access the drip pan. A helper makes this task much easier.
2. Remove standing water: Use a turkey baster, sponge, or wet/dry vacuum to remove any standing water in the pan.
3. Clean with disinfectant: Spray the pan with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water or a mild bleach solution (1 tablespoon of bleach to 1 gallon of water). Let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Scrub and rinse: Use a brush to loosen any debris, then wipe clean with a cloth. If the pan is removable, take it outside for easier cleaning.
5. Dry thoroughly: Ensure the pan is completely dry before repositioning the washing machine.
6. Preventative maintenance: Check and clean your drip pan every 3-6 months to prevent mold growth and odors.

If your drip pan shows signs of cracking or damage, consider replacing it to maintain proper protection against potential leaks.

Common Washing Machine Cleaning Issues and Solutions

Common washing machine problems include bad smells, mold, and mineral buildup. Fixing these issues quickly and cleaning your machine regularly will make it last longer and keep your clothes smelling fresh.

Musty Odors

A funky smell can develop in your washing machine due to trapped moisture and lack of airflow. If your freshly laundered clothes have an unpleasant smell, here are a few effective solutions to get rid of it.

• Run an empty hot water cycle or cleaning cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar and ½ cup baking soda to neutralize odors.
• Leave the door or lid open between wash cycles to promote air circulation and prevent moisture build.
• Wipe down the drum, door seal, and gasket after final use each day to remove residual moisture.

Mold Growth

Washing machines provide ideal conditions for mold growth due to their warm, moist environment. Check your machine regularly for black, green, or pink spots, especially in hidden areas like rubber seals, soap dispensers, and poorly ventilated corners. If you discover mold:

• Clean visible mold on non-porous surfaces with a 1:1 solution of water and white vinegar or a commercial mold and mildew cleaner.
• For front-loaders, thoroughly clean and dry the rubber door seal after each use, pulling back folds to reach hidden areas.
• Use high-temperature wash cycles periodically to help eliminate mold spores.
• Contact a mold specialist to deal with a severe mold problem or if the mold continues to return after cleaning.

Mineral Buildup

Hard water can make your washing machine less effective over time. The chalky white or gray buildup blocks water flow and can harm your machine. To remove mineral buildup:

• Use a limescale remover or vinegar to deal with visible mineral deposits. 
• Run a hot water cycle with machine empty with 2 cups of vinegar and 1/2 cup of baking soda to also help clear drain lines.
• Install a water softener if you live in an area with particularly hard water to prevent future issues with mineral buildup.

FAQ: about Cleaning a Washer

The Final Spin on Cleaning Your Washer

With just a little regular maintenance like wiping down the gasket regularly, leaving the door open between loads, and running a monthly cleaning cycle with vinegar or a specialized cleaner, you’ll keep your faithful laundry companion running smoothly for years to come. Your clothes will thank you with that fresh-from-the-wash scent everyone loves.

Don’t have time in your busy schedule for washing machine maintenance or your washer needs some expert TLC? No worries! Home Gnome is here to help connect you with trusted local appliance repair specialists who can handle all your washing machine cleaning and maintenance needs. 

Home Gnome delivers the best home service experience at the click of a button. Book reliable, skilled services in seconds and leave the rest to us.

Main Image Credit: SKfoto / Adobe Stock

Raven Wisdom

Raven Wisdom is an experienced DIY enthusiast and writer based in West Texas. Her areas of focus include home remodeling and upgrades, outdoor projects, gardening, and sustainable living. Self-described as half-feral, but mostly harmless, Raven is also a devoted mother of two children in an Autism family, and an active supporter of local humanitarian efforts and animal rescues.

Posts by Raven Wisdom