How to Clean Your Washing Machine

Running the washing machine regularly is very important to keep your appliance clean so that the clothes coming out of it are always fresh and spotless. This guide on how to clean a washing machine goes through the easy steps to keep your appliance working in tip-top shape in simple terms.

Why You Need to Clean Your Washing Machine

Washing machines leave a lot to be desired if they are not washed and disinfected regularly: they become a hot breeding ground for bacteria and mold odors. The detergent residues, fabric softener, and mineral deposits build up over time, which can reduce cycle effectiveness and do damage to your machine. Maintaining the washer is a certifiable way of maintaining a longer life for your washer and ensuring that your clothes are actually clean.

How to Clean the Washing Machine Drum

This is the ideal zone since everything that you do inside a washing machine is on this drum. To clean your washing machine drum, you should do a cycle with hot water and two cups of white vinegar on an empty load. This tried and true solution helps eliminate buildup from previous cleanings. For your front-load washer, just add the vinegar directly into the drum. Add it into the drum for a top-loader and let it sit for about an hour before starting your next cycle. Do this once a month in these areas to avoid buildup and odors.

How to Clean Your Washing Machine with Vinegar

Vinegar is a multipurpose cleaner that works well and you can find it in your own house. You need to make the drum clean, and also clean the door sealing rubber and soap dispenser. Fill a quart-sized zip-top bag with equal parts of water and vinegar, spray onto the parts needing cleaning, and wipe with an old t-shirt. This is very important as it cleanses away the years of accumulated caked grime and prevents the growth of muddled mold.

How to Clean A Washing Machine Front Load

People love front-load washing machines because they are more efficient, but keep in mind that to keep them clean, you need some extra care. Please use vinegar as well to clean that rubber gasket! This is a hotspot for mold and mildew. Carefully pull the gasket out and use a towel soaked in vinegar to wash the edges.

Also, leave the door slightly ajar after every wash to ensure the inside of the laundry room dries out completely — you don't want mold growing!