Longer appliance life, fewer odors, and fresher clothing are all benefits of a clean washing machine. Regular cleaning keeps mildew, detergent buildup, and musty odors from getting into your clothes, regardless of whether you have a front-loading or top-loading washer.
Depending on usage and water hardness, you should ideally deep clean your washer every one to three months. To keep your appliance operating like new, stick to this easy, secure practice.
Step 1 — Deep Clean the Washer Drum
- Before turning on the washer, empty the drum.
- Drop one washing machine cleaner tablet into the drum.
- DIY option: Add 1–2 cups of distilled white vinegar into the detergent dispenser and ¼ cup of baking soda into the drum.
- ⚠️ Never mix bleach with vinegar or any other cleaner.
- Start a standard hot-water cycle or the “Clean Washer.” Select the longest, hottest cycle for top-load washers that do not have a cleaning mode.
- To get rid of any residue, perform an additional rinse and spin cycle after cleaning.
- To allow the interior to dry fully, leave the door or lid open for at least an hour.
This step removes hidden grime, detergent film, and bacteria that cause unpleasant odors.
Step 2 — Clean the Dispenser Drawers
Detergent and softener dispensers often collect sticky residue that encourages mold growth.
- To fully remove the dispenser drawer, pull it out until it stops; many models allow this.
- Soak detachable components for ten to fifteen minutes in warm, soapy water.
- Use a moist cloth or machine-cleaning wipe to clean the housing.
- After washing and drying with a towel, replace the drawer.
For models with built-in dispensers, wipe down the surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner or mild soap solution.
Step 3 — Clean the Door & Rubber Gasket (Front-Load Models)
The door seal (gasket) traps moisture and lint—prime spots for mold and odor.
- Gently pull back the rubber seal after opening the washer door.
- Use a gentle cloth soaked in a solution of water and vinegar or mild detergent to wipe inside the folds.
- Use an oxygen-based cleanser or diluted bleach on any visible mold patches, let them sit for five minutes, and then wipe them off.
- Completely dry the area.
Front-load users should perform this quick gasket check weekly to prevent black buildup.
Step 4 — Wipe the Exterior & Control Panel
Keep the outer surface clean to protect finishes and buttons.
- Use a soft, damp microfiber cloth or a gentle all-purpose wipe.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive pads, or excessive moisture around electronic panels.
- Dry with a lint-free towel.
This small habit keeps your washer looking new and prevents dirt from entering crevices.
Step 5 — Keep It Fresh Between Cleanings
- Use warm or hot water cycles occasionally if you usually wash in cold water; this dissolves leftover detergent and slows buildup.
- Leave the door or lid open after each load to let air circulate and prevent musty smells.
- Check the drain pump filter (often behind a lower access panel) every few months for lint, coins, or debris.
- Use HE detergent in high-efficiency machines to avoid overusing and residue.
When to Call a Professional
If your washer still smells, won’t drain, or shows error codes even after cleaning, it may need a deeper internal service. Contact a qualified washing machine repair technician for inspection—especially if you notice leaks, grinding noises, or electrical issues.
Quick Checklist
✅ Run hot cleaning cycle with affresh® or vinegar + baking soda
✅ Clean dispenser drawers and dry them
✅ Wipe door gasket to remove mold and residue
✅ Clean exterior and control panel
✅ Leave door open after each use
✅ Check filter and drain pump regularly
Final Tip
Routine cleaning keeps your washer efficient, odor-free, and ready to deliver truly clean laundry. For persistent performance issues, visit our washer troubleshooting or washer repair pages for professional guidance.