Your washing machine is designed to clean your clothes, but that does not mean it stays clean on its own. Over time, laundry detergent, detergent residue, soap scum, hard water minerals, and moisture can create buildup inside the machine. If left untreated, that buildup can lead to mildew, unpleasant odors, and even reduced cleaning performance.

The good news is that regular washing machine cleaning is simple. Whether you have a front-loading washing machine, a top-loading washing machine, a Whirlpool model, or another brand, a few maintenance steps can help you deep clean your machine and keep it running efficiently.

washing machine

Why Washing Machine Cleaning Matters

Every wash cycle leaves behind small amounts of detergent residue, softener, dirt, and moisture. Over time, these materials accumulate in areas you cannot always see.

This is especially common in front-load washers and front-load machines, where moisture can remain trapped around the gasket and washer door. In top-load washers and top loader models, buildup often collects around the agitator, drum, and detergent dispensers.

Regular cleaning helps:

  • Prevent mildew growth
  • Remove grime and soap scum
  • Reduce odors
  • Improve washing performance
  • Extend the life of the appliance

A clean washer simply performs better.

Signs Your Washing Machine Needs a Deep Clean

Many homeowners do not think about cleaning their washing machine until something smells off.

You may need a deep clean if you notice:

  • A musty or mildew smell
  • Visible grime around the gasket
  • Detergent buildup in dispensers
  • Spots on freshly washed clothing
  • Slow draining water
  • Excessive soap residue after a wash cycle

These signs often indicate that buildup is accumulating inside the machine.

How to Clean a Front-Loading Washing Machine

A front-loading washing machine requires extra attention because moisture tends to collect around the door seal.

Start by inspecting the gasket. This rubber seal around the washer door often traps moisture, lint, and detergent residue.

Use a clean cloth or microfiber cloth to wipe down the gasket thoroughly. For stubborn buildup, an old toothbrush or toothbrush can help reach small crevices.

Next, remove any visible debris and leave the door open while cleaning. This allows airflow to help dry interior surfaces and reduce mildew growth.

After cleaning the gasket, run a cleaning cycle if your machine has one

How to Clean a Top-Loading Washing Machine

A top-loading washing machine tends to have fewer gasket-related issues, but it can still develop detergent buildup and mineral deposits.

Fill the machine with hot water and allow it to agitate briefly. Then pause the cycle and add your preferred cleaning solution.

Pay special attention to the agitator, detergent compartments, and upper drum surfaces. These areas commonly collect grime and soap scum.

Once the machine has soaked, resume the wash cycle and allow it to complete fully.

Using White Vinegar and Baking Soda

White vinegar and baking soda are two of the most popular cleaning solutions for washing machine cleaning.

To clean washer components naturally:

  1. Add a cup of vinegar directly to the drum.
  2. Run a hot cycle using the highest water setting.
  3. After the cycle finishes, sprinkle baking soda into the drum.
  4. Run a second hot water cleaning cycle.

This combination helps dissolve detergent buildup, remove odors, and reduce mineral deposits caused by hard water.

Commercial Washing Machine Cleaner Options

Many homeowners prefer a dedicated washing machine cleaner.

Products such as Affresh and other cleaner tablet options are designed specifically to break down buildup inside the machine. These products often work well for self-cleaning washers and heavily used appliances.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using a washing machine cleaner to ensure proper results.

Don't Forget the Small Components

A deep clean involves more than the drum.

Take time to inspect and clean:

  • Hoses
  • Detergent dispensers
  • Softener compartments
  • Washer door seals
  • Exterior surfaces

Use dish soap and warm water to wipe down accessible areas. A clean cloth or microfiber cloth works well for most surfaces.

Keeping these smaller components clean helps prevent recurring odor and residue problems.

What Causes Mildew and Odors?

Moisture is usually the primary culprit.

When the washer door remains closed after a load of laundry, moisture becomes trapped inside. This creates an environment where mildew and mildew growth can thrive.

Leaving the door open after each load allows the machine to dry properly and helps prevent future odor issues.

Can Hydrogen Peroxide Help?

Some homeowners use hydrogen peroxide as a disinfectant during cleaning.

Hydrogen peroxide can help sanitize interior surfaces and reduce odor-causing bacteria. However, it should be used carefully and according to manufacturer's recommendations.

If you choose to use hydrogen peroxide, avoid mixing it with other cleaning products unless the product instructions specifically allow it.

Avoid Using Too Much Detergent

Many washing machine problems begin with too much detergent.

Excess detergent creates additional soap scum and detergent residue that may not rinse away completely. Over time, this contributes to the buildup and unpleasant odors.

Using the recommended amount of laundry detergent helps improve cleaning performance and reduces maintenance needs.

Regular Maintenance Keeps Your Washer Running Strong

Cleaning your washing machine is one of the simplest forms of appliance maintenance.

A little routine care can help:

  • Reduce buildup
  • Improve wash results
  • Prevent odors
  • Protect internal components
  • Extend appliance lifespan

Just as you regularly wash your clothes, your washer occasionally needs cleaning too.

Key Takeaways

  • Washing machine cleaning helps remove buildup, grime, and detergent residue.
  • Front-load washers require special attention around the gasket and washer door.
  • Top-load washers benefit from periodic deep cleaning of the agitator and drum.
  • White vinegar and baking soda can help remove odors and mineral deposits.
  • Commercial products like Affresh and cleaner tablet options are also effective.
  • Leaving the door open after a load helps prevent mildew growth.
  • Regular maintenance improves appliance performance and longevity.

FAQs About How to Clean a Washing Machine

How often should I clean my washing machine?

Most homeowners should clean their washing machines once per month. Frequent use, hard water, or excessive detergent use may require more frequent cleaning. Regular maintenance helps prevent buildup and odors before they become major issues.

Yes. White vinegar is a popular solution for dissolving detergent buildup and reducing odors. Running a hot water cleaning cycle with a cup of vinegar can help refresh the machine and remove residue.

Baking soda is generally safe and effective for most machines. It helps neutralize odors and loosen grime that may remain after a vinegar cycle. Many homeowners use both products together for a thorough deep clean.

Mildew develops when moisture becomes trapped inside the appliance. Front-loading washing machine models are particularly susceptible because water can collect around the gasket. Leaving the washer door open after each load can help prevent mildew growth.

Both options can be effective. A washing machine cleaner or cleaner tablet is specifically formulated to remove buildup and may provide stronger cleaning results. Vinegar is a simple, affordable alternative that works well for routine maintenance.

Odors are often caused by detergent residue, soap scum, mildew, and trapped moisture. Over time, these materials accumulate inside the machine and create unpleasant smells. Regular cleaning and proper drying can usually resolve the problem.

Do not forget the gasket, hoses, detergent dispensers, and softener compartments. These areas frequently collect buildup that contributes to odors and poor performance. Wiping them down regularly helps keep the entire machine cleaner.

Using too much detergent can create excessive residue inside the appliance. This buildup can contribute to odors, drainage issues, and cleaning problems over time. Following manufacturer recommendations helps keep your machine operating efficiently.

Protect Your Home Appliances with Dwellness

Even a well-maintained washing machine can experience unexpected breakdowns over time. Regular cleaning helps protect your appliance, but wear and tear eventually affects every machine.

Dwellness helps homeowners protect important appliances from unexpected repair costs. Contact Dwellness today to learn more about our washing machine home warranty coverage and discover how we can help protect your home and provide greater peace of mind.