How to Clean Washing Machine

How to Clean Washing Machine Properly: Step-by-Step Guide

A washing machine cleans your clothes every week, but it also needs regular cleaning. Over time, detergent residue, dirt, hair, lint, and moisture can build up inside the machine. This can cause bad smells, dirty clothes, mold, and even drainage problems.

Learning how to clean washing machine properly can help keep your appliance fresh, hygienic, and working efficiently. Whether you have a front-load or top-load washing machine, regular maintenance can also help extend its life.

In this guide, we will explain how to clean a washing machine step by step, including the drum, detergent drawer, door seal, filter, and other important parts.

Why Should You Clean Washing Machine?

Even though a washing machines uses water and detergent, the inside does not automatically stay clean. Dirt from clothes and detergent residue can remain behind after every wash.

Regular cleaning can help:

• Remove unpleasant smells
• Reduce mold and mildew buildup
• Remove detergent and fabric-softener residue
• Keep the drum clean
• Improve washing performance
• Prevent dirt from transferring to clothes
• Keep the drain filter working properly
• Extend the life of your washing machine

For most homes, cleaning the washing machines once a month is a good routine.

What You Need to Clean Washing Machine

Before starting, prepare a few basic items:

• Clean microfiber cloth
• Old toothbrush or soft brush
• Warm water
• Mild dishwashing liquid
• White vinegar, if suitable for your machine
• Baking soda, if needed
• Small bowl or container
• Clean towel

Always check your washing machine’s user manual before using any cleaning product.

How to Clean Washing Machine Step by Step

Step 1: Empty the Washing Machine

Make sure there are no clothes inside the machine.

Check the drum carefully for socks, tissues, coins, or other small items that may have been left behind.

Cleaning an empty machine allows the cleaning cycle to reach the entire drum.

Step 2: Clean Washing Machine Drum

The drum is one of the most important parts to clean.

If your washing machine has a Drum Clean, Tub Clean, or Self Clean program, use that setting according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

If there is no dedicated cleaning cycle, run an empty hot-water cycle if your machine allows it.

You can use a washing-machine cleaning product designed for your appliance. Some people also use a small amount of white vinegar or baking soda, but you should check the manufacturer’s instructions first because repeated use of acidic or abrasive products may not be suitable for every machine.

Never mix vinegar with bleach or other chemical cleaners.

Step 3: Clean the Door Seal

Front-load washing machines have a rubber seal around the door. Water, hair, lint, detergent, and dirt can collect inside this area.

To clean it:

1. Open the washing machine door.
2. Gently pull back the rubber gasket.
3. Remove visible dirt and hair.
4. Wipe the gasket with a damp cloth.
5. Use a soft toothbrush for difficult areas.
6. Dry the seal with a clean towel.

After washing clothes, leave the door slightly open when possible. This helps moisture escape and reduces the chance of mold and bad odors.

Step 4: Clean the Detergent Drawer

The detergent drawer can develop a buildup of detergent, fabric softener, and dirt.

Remove the drawer if your washing machine allows it.

Wash it with warm water and gently scrub the compartments using an old toothbrush. Pay particular attention to corners and small openings where detergent can collect.

Rinse the drawer thoroughly and let it dry before putting it back.

Also wipe the area where the detergent drawer sits.

Step 5: Clean Washing Machine Filter

The drain filter catches lint, hair, coins, and other small objects. A blocked filter can cause drainage problems.

Before opening the filter:

• Turn off the washing machine.
• Unplug it from the electrical socket.
• Place a towel or shallow container underneath if water may come out.

Open the filter according to your machine’s instructions. Remove any dirt or objects, rinse the filter, and reinstall it properly.

Some washing machines have the filter behind a small panel at the bottom front.

Important: Never force the filter if it does not open easily. Check the user manual for the correct procedure.

Step 6: Clean the Outside of the Washing Machine

The outside of the machine also collects dust, detergent, fingerprints, and water marks.

Use a soft, slightly damp cloth to wipe:

• Control panel
• Door
• Top surface
• Sides
• Detergent area
• Handle

Do not spray water or cleaning products directly onto the control panel or electrical components.

Step 7: Run an Extra Rinse or Cleaning Cycle

After cleaning the individual parts, run an empty rinse or cleaning cycle if recommended by your washing machine manufacturer.

This can help remove any remaining residue from the drum.

Once the cycle finishes, wipe away any remaining water and leave the door or lid open so the inside can dry.

How to Clean Washing Machine Front Load

Front-load washing machines need special attention around the rubber door gasket.

Follow these steps:

1. Empty the drum.
2. Clean the rubber door seal.
3. Clean the detergent drawer.
4. Clean the drain filter.
5. Run the drum-cleaning cycle.
6. Wipe the door and exterior.
7. Leave the door open after cleaning.

The biggest problem with front-load machines is often trapped moisture around the door seal. Keeping the gasket clean and allowing the machine to dry can help prevent unpleasant smells.

How to Clean Washing Machine Top Load

Top-load washing machines are also easy to maintain.

For a top-load machine:

1. Remove all clothes.
2. Wipe the inside of the lid.
3. Clean the detergent and softener compartments.
4. Wipe around the agitator or impeller.
5. Run the Tub Clean cycle if available.
6. Clean the filter if your model has one.
7. Wipe the outside of the machine.

Some top-load machines have removable dispensers or filters, while others have different cleaning procedures. Always follow the instructions for your specific model.

How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?

For normal household use, cleaning the washing machine once a month is a good starting point.

You may need to clean it more frequently if:

• You wash clothes very often.
• You regularly wash heavily soiled clothes.
• The machine develops a bad smell.
• You notice mold or residue.
• The detergent drawer becomes dirty.
• The drain filter gets blocked frequently.

The door seal and detergent drawer can be wiped more often, especially if you notice moisture or residue.

How to Prevent Bad Smell in a Washing Machine

A bad smell usually develops when moisture, detergent residue, dirt, and bacteria remain inside the machine.

To reduce odors:

• Do not leave wet clothes inside for hours.
• Leave the door or lid open after washing.
• Wipe the rubber gasket regularly.
• Clean the detergent drawer.
• Clean the drain filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Avoid using more detergent than recommended.
• Run the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning cycle regularly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When cleaning a washing machine, avoid these common mistakes.

Using Too Much Detergent

More detergent does not always mean cleaner clothes. Excess detergent can leave residue inside the machine.

Closing the Door Immediately

Closing a front-load washing machine while the inside is still wet can trap moisture and encourage unpleasant odors.

Ignoring the Drain Filter

A dirty filter can restrict drainage and may cause the machine to stop or drain slowly.

Using Harsh Chemicals

Avoid mixing cleaning chemicals. In particular, never mix bleach with vinegar or other acidic cleaners, as dangerous gases can form.

Forgetting the Detergent Drawer

A dirty detergent drawer can become a source of mold and unpleasant smells.

How to Keep Your Washing Machine Clean

Cleaning once a month is useful, but daily habits also make a difference.

After every wash:

• Remove clothes promptly.
• Leave the door or lid open.
• Wipe away excess water around the door seal.
• Do not overload the machine.
• Use the correct amount of detergent.

These simple habits can help keep the machine cleaner between deep-cleaning sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my washing machine?

For most households, cleaning the washing machine once a month is a good routine. Heavier use may require more frequent cleaning.

Can I use vinegar to clean my washing machine?

Vinegar is sometimes used as a household cleaning solution, but it is better to check your washing machine manufacturer’s instructions before using it. Some manufacturers advise against repeated use because acidic products can affect certain rubber or metal components.

How do I remove a bad smell from my washing machine?

Clean the drum, rubber gasket, detergent drawer, and drain filter. Then run the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning cycle and allow the machine to dry properly.

Why does my washing machine smell even after washing?

Moisture, detergent residue, mold, trapped dirt, and dirty filters can all contribute to bad odors. Leaving wet clothes inside the machine can also make the problem worse.

Should I clean the washing machine filter?

Yes. The filter can collect lint, hair, coins, and other debris. Check your machine’s manual to find out where the filter is located and how often it should be cleaned.

Can baking soda clean a washing machine?

Baking soda can help with odors and light residue, but you should follow your washing machine manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations and avoid abrasive cleaning methods.

How do I clean the rubber seal of a front-load washing machine?

Pull the rubber gasket back gently, remove trapped dirt and hair, wipe it with a damp cloth, and dry it thoroughly. A soft toothbrush can help clean difficult areas.

Can I clean my washing machine with bleach?

Some washing machine manufacturers allow bleach for specific cleaning procedures, while others recommend different products. Always check your appliance manual first. Never mix bleach with vinegar or other cleaning chemicals.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to clean washing machine is an important part of appliance maintenance. A clean drum, detergent drawer, door seal, and filter can help reduce odors, residue, and drainage problems.

Try to clean your washing machine at least once a month and develop simple habits such as leaving the door open after washing and removing wet clothes promptly.

If your washing machine continues to smell, leak, make unusual noises, or fail to drain after cleaning, the problem may require professional inspection.