Simple Steps to a Spotless Washing Machine

You would think that a machine designed to wash things would stay clean on its own, right? Unfortunately, that’s not the case. I’ll admit, I didn’t know I needed to clean my washing machine until it started to smell like a swamp. After a little research, I learned that the smell could be coming from my washing machine. I cleaned it with hot water and bleach (as outlined below), and the smell cleared right up. Ahead, find step-by-step instructions for cleaning your washing machine, with expert tips from two cleaning pros: Justin Carpenter from Modern Maids and Sarah McAllister from GoCleanCo and House Work.

Do You Need To Clean Inside a Washing Machine?

Washing machines can easily collect dirt, bacteria and even fungus over time, so they need to be cleaned regularly. This includes the rubber seal, tub and detergent dispenser. “Regular cleaning helps maintain efficiency, prevent odors and extend the lifespan of the machine,” Carpenter says.

Methods To Clean a Washing Machine

There are two primary methods of cleaning a washing machine: Run the machine’s clean cycle (if it has one) or add bleach to a hot water cycle.

Running a Cleaning Cycle

If your washing machine is a newer model, it likely has a cleaning cycle function. This might be labeled as “Clean” or “Tub Clean” on your machine, along with a corresponding indicator light. Some manufacturers recommend using a special washing machine cleaner, or you can use distilled white vinegar. Here’s how:

• Ensure the tub and detergent dispenser are empty.
• If using a washing machine cleaner, follow the manufacturer’s directions.
• If using vinegar, add two cups directly to the tub for top-loading machines. For front-loaders, add to the detergent dispenser.
• Start the cleaning cycle.
• Once finished, use a clean rag or paper towel to wipe down the inside of the drum.
• Leave the door open to allow the machine to air dry.

Cleaning with Bleach

If your washing machine doesn’t have a clean cycle, use hot water and bleach. “This process helps eliminate odors, mold and detergent buildup, ensuring your washing machine stays fresh and hygienic,” Carpenter says.

Here are the steps:

• Ensure the tub and detergent dispenser are empty.
• Add a 1/2 cup bleach to your machine. For front loaders, use the detergent dispenser. For top loaders, pour the bleach directly in the tub.
• “Run the longest, hottest cycle possible,” McAllister says, to thoroughly clean and rinse the machine.
• Once the cycle is finished, wipe the inside of the drum with a clean rag or paper towel.
• “To eliminate any remaining bleach, run an additional rinse cycle with water,” Carpenter says.
• Leave the door open to allow the machine to air dry.

How To Get Rid of Smells In a Washing Machine

If your washing machine still smells after cleaning the drum, it may need a deeper clean. For front-loaders, start by wiping the rubber seal with a paper towel to remove any sludge or water, then scrub with bleach. “Use a paper towel to wipe out the rubber seal of your machine, pulling out any built-up sludge or sitting water,” McAllister says.

Remove and soak the detergent drawer in hot water, scrubbing all parts. If mold is present, add bleach. Rinse and let air dry.

For top-loaders, wipe down the agitator and door edges with a damp rag to remove dirt and detergent residue.

How Often To Clean a Washing Machine

McAllister recommends running a bleach or cleaning cycle monthly and completing a deep clean of the inside and outside of your washing machine twice yearly.

FAQ

Why does my washing machine smell moldy?

If your washing machine has a funny odor, it can indicate mold. If so, chances are that, like most people, you leave the washer door closed between loads. This prevents the interior from drying out and can promote mold growth. “It’s so important to keep your door and drawer slightly ajar between washes to prevent mold and mildew from growing in the first place,” McAllister says.

Why does my washing machine keep saying clean filter?

If you’ve cleaned your washing machine filter, and you’re still getting a “clean filter” indicator, you may have a larger issue. This can indicate a clog in the drain pump, a kinked or clogged drain hose or a clogged filter. Check your drain hose, refer to your owner’s manual for drain pump issues and re-clean your filter.

Is there a difference between cleaning a front-loading and a top-loading washing machine?

The door seal on front-loading washing machines makes them more challenging to clean, as it requires regular maintenance and can promote mold growth inside the tub. “You will usually have a much easier time cleaning a top loader as they don’t tend to have the same mold problems, and they don’t have the same tricky seal to clean,” McAllister says.

If your front-loading washing machine has persistent mold issues, run the empty washer through a cycle once a month with a mold cleaner designed for front loaders. Our appliance expert recommends a product called Affresh.

About the Experts

• Sarah McAllister is founder and CEO of GoCleanCo and House Work, a popular website offering home cleaning tips, advice and product recommendations.
• Justin Carpenter is the CEO of Modern Maids, a leading national house cleaning provider since 2017.