One of the home appliances you use  frequently is  undoubtedly  your washing  machine. It waits patiently for the wear and tear of washing your clothes, silently battling dirt, grime, and mold, and still doing it without complaint.

But still, it impacts efficiency and freshness in the laundry. That’s why learning to clean a washing machine isn’t just suitable for your appliance and fresh, odor-free clothes. In this comprehensive how-to guide, we‘ll look at everything you need to know about cleaning and maintaining a washing machine in perfect condition.

Why You Need to Clean Your Washing Machine

Although a washing machine uses soap and water, it does not clean itself. All these result in detergent residues, fabric softeners, and dirt from clothes. The residues provide the perfect environment for mold, mildew, and bacteria. There are various reasons why you should have proper knowledge of how to clean a washing machine:

  • Get Rid of Bad Smells: Residue and mold can contribute to obnoxious smells.
  • Cleaner Wash: A clean machine will help you get your clothes clean of spots.
  • Extend the Machine‘s Lifespan: Regular cleaning prevents damage and wear.
  • Maintain Hygiene: Prevent bacteria and mold from transferring onto your clothes.

Cleaning a washing machine helps avoid such troubles and keeps your laundry process efficient.

 
How Often Should You Clean a Washing Machine?

Experts recommend you wash your washing machine at least once per month. Washing may be needed every two weeks for households that frequently clean heavily soiled clothes or other large loads. Proper maintenance will ensure your machine works in the best possible condition, avoiding clogging, odor buildup, and bacteria growth.


Tools and Materials Needed

Before knowing how to clean a washing machine, acquire these tools and materials:

A_closeup_of_a_washing_machines_detergent

 

  • White vinegar.
  • Baking soda.
  • Microfiber cloths.
  • A toothbrush.
  • Warm soapy water
  • Washing machine cleaning tablets (optional)
  • Bleach (optional)


The right equipment helps you clean your washing machine and handle heavier grime.


Step 1: Clean the Drum of the Washing Machine


The drum is where your clothes are washed, so keeping it clean is also essential. Here‘s how to clean a washing machine drum

A_closeup_of_a_washing_machines_rubber_seal_

 

  • Vinegar Cycle: Place 2 cups of white vinegar in the detergent dispenser. Run a hot cycle. Detergent residue dissolves, kills bacteria, and removes odors.
  • Baking Soda: Sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda into the drum and run another hot cycle. It neutralizes odors and breaks down grime.
  • Clean the Drum: Once all cycles are completed, use a microfiber cloth to clean the drum of any residue.

This is a straightforward process and one of the most important when learning how to clean a washing machine properly.


Step 2: Clean the Detergent Drawer


The detergent drawer is the tendency-prone stickiest part of your washing machine: it’s often oozing with detergent and fabric softener residue. Here‘s how to clean a washing machine drawer:

A-visually-appealing-image-of-a-washing-machines-detergent-drawer-being-cleaned

 

  • Take Out the Drawer: First, pull the drawer out. Most machines have detergent drawers that can be cleaned from the washing machine.
  • Soak and Scrub: Soak the drawer in warm, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes. Clean using a toothbrush for heavily built-up areas.
  • Rinse and Dry: Rinse thoroughly under running water and dry it with a cloth before reinserting it into the washing machine. Cleaning the drawer inside is necessary to maintain hygiene with your washing machine.

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Step 3: Clean the Rubber Seal

The rubber seal around the door is also likely to trap dirt, lint, and moisture, which can create mold and mildew. Here‘s how you clean a washing machine seal,

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  • Check the Seal: Look for debris or small items lodged in the seal.
  • Wipe with Vinegar: Wipe the seal completely using a soaked cloth.
  • Scrub Stubborn Spots: If there are stubborn spots, rub them with vinegar using a toothbrush.
    Let the seal dry out entirely by leaving the door open.


Keeping this seal clean prevents smells from entering your clothes.
Remove Lint and Debris.

Step 4: Filter Cleaning

This filter attracts lint, hair, and debris. Without regular cleaning, clogs build up, and your machine runs much less effectively. This is how you clean a washing machine filter:
_A_washing_machine_filter_being_removed

 

  • Locate Filter: Consult your owner’s manual for where the filter is on your washer. This is usually located at the bottom front of your washing machine.
  • Drain Remaining Water: Take a towel or bowl and place it under the filter area to catch any water.
  • Remove and Rinse Filter: Remove and run the filter under running water. Using a toothbrush, clean away any built-up residue.
  • Replace the Filter: Ensure it is aligned correctly before closing the lid.


Step 5: Clean the Exterior

Don‘t forget about cleaning the exterior of your appliance. How to clean the exterior of a washing machine is as follows:

  • Wipe With Damp Cloth: Wipe around the knobs and buttons with a damp microfiber.
  • Use Stainless Steel Cleaner–Optional If your washing machine is made from stainless steel, a stainless steel cleaner will get extra sparkle.


Odor and BBuildupPrevention Tips


Knowing how to clean a washing machine is half the battle, but prevention is equally important. Here are a few tips to keep your machine fresh:

Always leave the door open after each wash, allowing airflow circulation within the washing machine and preventing mold growth buildup.

Minimize the use of detergent because excessive usage creates residue buildup. Always follow the manufacturer‘s guidelines on how much detergent to use.

  • Run Maintenance Cycles: Follow the instructions for Most appliances with a self-cleaning cycle.
    Pre-clean empty pockets so dust does not get into them and cause a clog in your filter.
  • How to Clean Inside of Washing Machine: Top-Loading Versus Front-Loading
    The cleaning procedure may vary according to the type of model.
    Top-Loading Machines
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Top-Loading Machines


Fill the barrel drum with hot water and add 2 cups of vinegar. Let sit for 30 minutes.
Brush the inside lining with a cloth or brush, disposing of the residue inside the machine.
Add ½ cup baking soda. Run a hot cycle.


Front-Loading Machines

Pay more attention to the rubber seal, which appears more in front-loaders.
Work with vinegar and baking soda separately in a couple of cycles to clean the drum.
Leave the door open so that moisture does not get a chance to settle.


Conclusion


The ability to clean the washing machine is essential to how long it will be efficient at its task of making your clothes fresh and clean each time. From the inner lining of the drum to the eradication of smells, these processes ensure that your washing machine is maintained well. Clean your washing machine regularly to avoid expensive repairs, and enjoy fragrant laundry every wash.

Now, you will know exactly how to clean a washing machine. Follow these steps, and your appliance and your clothes will thank you!