How to Clean Washing Machine

Why Even a Washing Machine Needs Washing

Have you ever opened your washing machine door, expecting that fresh laundry scent—only to be met with a musty smell? You’re not alone. Washing machines do an amazing job of cleaning our clothes, but many people forget that these machines need cleaning too. If you don’t know how to clean washing machine, you may end up with a smelly drum, residue on your clothes, or even mold buildup.

The good news is that cleaning your washer is simple. And once you get the hang of it, it becomes just another small routine that makes a big difference in your home.

Meet Anita: A True Story of a Stinky Surprise

Anita, a full-time nurse and mother of two, always trusted her front-load washer. Every Saturday, she’d toss in uniforms, towels, and kids’ clothes. But one day, her daughter asked, “Why do my clothes smell weird?” At first, Anita thought it was just a load left too long in the machine. But the smell didn’t go away—even with new detergent and fabric softener.

After a quick search online, she learned that her washer might be the problem. She had never thought about how to clean washing machine, assuming it cleaned itself. What she found inside shocked her: grime under the rubber seal, residue in the detergent tray, and a funky-smelling filter.

An hour later, after a deep clean using natural ingredients, her washing machine smelled like new. From that day on, she added “clean the washer” to her monthly to-do list.

Why You Should Clean Your Washing Machine

Even though washers use water and detergent, they still collect a lot of dirt. Here’s what builds up inside:

• Leftover detergent and fabric softener

• Lint and hair from clothes

• Body oils and dirt

• Hard water deposits

• Mold and mildew (especially in front-load machines)

If not cleaned regularly, these things cause bad odors, leave spots on your clothes, and make your machine work harder than it needs to.

Learning how to clean washing machine helps prevent breakdowns, keeps your clothes truly clean, and even saves energy in the long run.

How to Clean Washing Machine – Step-by-Step Guide

You don’t need special cleaners to get the job done. With some vinegar, baking soda, and a cloth, your machine can be sparkling clean.

Step 1: Clean the Inside of the Drum

• Pour 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum.

• Set your washer to the hottest and longest cycle.

• Let it run without any clothes inside.

This kills bacteria, removes odors, and breaks down mineral buildup.

Step 2: Use Baking Soda for Extra Freshness

• After the vinegar cycle finishes, sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda into the drum.

• Run another hot cycle.

Baking soda acts as a natural scrub and deodorizer.

Step 3: Wipe Down the Rubber Seal and Door

Especially important for front-load washers, the rubber gasket often hides grime.

• Mix warm water and vinegar.

• Use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub the inside of the door and around the seal.

• Make sure to pull back the folds of the rubber and clean inside.

Step 4: Clean the Detergent Tray

• Remove the detergent drawer if possible.

• Soak it in hot, soapy water.

• Scrub it with an old toothbrush.

• Let it dry before putting it back in.

Step 5: Clear Out the Filter

Many machines have a small drain filter near the bottom front.

• Open the panel and remove the filter (check your manual).

• Rinse it under running water.

• Wipe the area around it to remove any gunk or water buildup.

How to Clean Washing Machine Naturally Every Month

You don’t need harsh chemicals to keep your washer clean. A monthly routine using vinegar and baking soda is gentle and effective.

Quick Monthly Checklist:

• Run a hot vinegar cycle

• Follow with a hot baking soda cycle

• Wipe the drum, seal, and door

• Clean the detergent drawer

• Rinse and replace the filter

• Leave the door open to air-dry

This simple routine keeps your washer smelling fresh and functioning like new.

Top-Load vs. Front-Load: What’s the Difference?

While both types need regular cleaning, front-load washers are more likely to trap water and develop mold.

• Front-load tips: Always leave the door open after use, clean the rubber seal thoroughly.

• Top-load tips: Don’t forget to wipe under the lid and clean around the agitator.

Regardless of type, if you know how to clean washing machine properly, your clothes will come out cleaner, and your machine will last longer.

Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning

Cleaning a washing machine is easy, but here are a few things to watch out for:

• Don’t mix vinegar and bleach. It creates toxic fumes.

• Don’t ignore the smell. Musty odors mean bacteria or mold.

• Don’t overuse detergent. It creates buildup that clogs the system.

• Don’t forget to dry. Always leave the door open after washing to prevent moisture buildup.

Final Thoughts: Give Your Washer the Love It Deserves

Your washing machine works hard for you every week. A little care goes a long way. Taking time to learn how to clean washing machine means fewer repairs, better-smelling clothes, and a longer life for your appliance.

Just like Anita learned, all it takes is a few simple steps once a month. A clean washer is a happy washer—and your laundry (and nose) will thank you.