Washing machines are not self-cleaning and accumulate detergent residue, fabric softener, and mineral deposits over time. This moist environment creates a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria and mold, which can transfer a musty smell to laundry. Regularly deep cleaning your machine eliminates these residues and maintains the appliance’s efficiency. This approach involves a sanitizing cycle and manual scrubbing of hard-to-reach components.
Essential Supplies and Preparation
Gather a few simple household agents and tools before beginning the deep cleaning process. You will need distilled white vinegar, which acts as a natural deodorizer and helps dissolve mineral buildup. Alternatively, use liquid chlorine bleach or a specialized commercial cleaner tablet for a sanitizing effect. Never combine chlorine bleach and vinegar, as the mixture produces toxic chlorine gas. You should also have microfiber cloths, an old toothbrush for scrubbing crevices, and an empty spray bottle. Always consult your appliance’s user manual for any manufacturer-specific cleaning restrictions.
Ensure the washing machine drum is empty of clothing and that all dispensers are clear. If your machine has a removable detergent drawer, take it out to clean separately, as this area often hides caked-on residue. Wipe down the exterior surfaces with a damp cloth to remove surface dust and dirt. This initial preparation sets the stage for the deep cleaning cycle that targets the internal components.
Executing the Deep Cleaning Cycle
The deep cleaning step involves running an empty cycle using the hottest water setting available to sanitize the drum and internal plumbing. High temperatures break down the greasy buildup of detergent and fabric softener. Most modern machines feature a dedicated “Tub Clean” or “Sanitize” cycle, which is the preferred setting for this process.
If using white vinegar, pour two cups directly into the detergent dispenser or the drum. The vinegar’s acidic properties cut through grime and mineral deposits, neutralizing persistent odors. If using a powerful sanitizer, add about one-half cup of liquid chlorine bleach to the bleach dispenser or directly into the drum, running a full hot cycle. If you used bleach, run a second, empty hot water cycle afterward to ensure all traces of the chemical are flushed out.
For top-loading washers without a dedicated cleaning cycle, a soaking step loosens deep-seated residue. Fill the drum on the highest water level and hottest temperature setting, then add your chosen cleaning agent. Allow the machine to agitate for a minute or two to mix the solution, then pause the cycle and let the water stand for at least one hour. This soak time allows the sanitizer or vinegar to penetrate and dissolve the buildup before the cycle completes its draining and rinsing phases. Afterward, wipe the inside of the drum with a clean microfiber cloth to remove any loosened debris.
Manual Cleaning of Key Components
While the deep cleaning cycle flushes the main drum and hoses, several hidden areas require manual attention to eradicate mold and residue. For front-loading machines, the rubber gasket or seal around the door is a prime location for trapped moisture, lint, and mold. Gently pull back the folds of the seal and scrub the crevices using a microfiber cloth dampened with a diluted vinegar or bleach solution.
The detergent dispenser or drawer is another area where laundry products solidify and foster mold growth. If the drawer is removable, soak it in hot water to loosen the residue, then use an old toothbrush to scrub away the remaining gunk. For non-removable dispensers, pour a cup of heated white vinegar into the compartments and let it sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing with a brush.
The drain filter or pump trap is an often neglected component, typically located behind a small access panel at the bottom front of the machine. This filter catches hair, lint, coins, and other debris that can impede drainage and cause odors. Before opening the filter, place a shallow pan and towels underneath to catch the residual water. Carefully unscrew the filter and remove all collected debris. Once cleaned, rinse the filter and its housing before screwing it back into place.
Preventative Habits for Longevity
Maintaining simple, routine habits reduces the need for frequent deep cleaning and extends your machine’s life. Always remove washed clothes immediately after the cycle finishes to prevent mildew growth and the transfer of musty smells. After every use, leave the washer door and the detergent dispenser drawer slightly ajar to promote air circulation and allow residual moisture to evaporate.
Using the correct amount of high-efficiency (HE) detergent is also important, as over-sudsing leaves behind a sticky residue that traps dirt and encourages microbial growth. Refer to the detergent manufacturer’s instructions and your machine’s requirements to ensure you are using the optimal measurement. Running a quick, empty cycle with hot water once a month serves as a light maintenance wash, helping to keep internal parts flushed and clean.