Your washing machine works hard to keep your clothes clean, but over time, it can accumulate dirt, detergent residue, and even mold, affecting its performance and the freshness of your laundry. Regularly deep cleaning your washing machine is essential to ensure it runs efficiently and keeps your clothes smelling fresh. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to clean washing machine for optimal performance.

Why You Need to Clean Your Washing Machine?

You might assume your washing machine is self-cleaning since it handles soapy water regularly. However, soap scum, dirt, and minerals from your water can build up in the drum, hoses, and seals, leading to unpleasant odors and potentially affecting the machine’s performance. Washing machine cleaning is necessary to remove these residues and keep your machine running smoothly.

Tip: Regularly deep cleaning your washing machine can extend its lifespan and improve the quality of your laundry.

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

Whether you have a front-loading or top-loading machine, deep cleaning your washing machine is straightforward and can be done with common household items.

Step 1: Clean the Drum

Dirt and grime can accumulate in the drum. Use a mix of white vinegar and baking soda for the best washing machine cleaner.

• For Front-Loading Machines:

1. Add 2 cups of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser.
2. Run the machine on the hottest and longest cycle available.
3. After the cycle completes, sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda inside the drum and run another hot cycle.

• For Top-Loading Machines:

1. Fill the drum with hot water.
2. Add 4 cups of white vinegar and let it agitate for a few minutes.
3. Pause the cycle and let the mixture sit for an hour.
4. After an hour, add 1 cup of baking soda and let the cycle complete.

Step 2: Clean the Detergent Dispenser and Seals

Detergent dispensers and rubber seals are often overlooked but can harbor mold and mildew.

• Remove the detergent dispenser and soak it in hot water and vinegar. Scrub away any residue with a toothbrush.
• Wipe the rubber seals around the door with a cloth soaked in vinegar. Pay special attention to areas where water tends to collect.

Step 3: Tub Clean in Washing Machine

Many modern washing machines have a “Tub Clean” cycle designed for maintenance.

• Run the Tub Clean Cycle:

1. Add a washing machine cleaner or 2 cups of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser.
2. Select your machine’s “Tub Clean” cycle and let it run. This cycle uses extra hot water and a higher spin speed to clean the interior thoroughly.

Tip: If your machine doesn’t have a “Tub Clean” option, run the hottest and longest cycle with an empty drum and a cleaning solution.

Step 4: Clean the Filter

The filter catches lint, hair, and other debris and is regularly cleaned to prevent clogs.

1. Locate the filter (usually found near the bottom of the machine) and remove it.
2. Rinse the filter under hot water to remove any buildup and debris. If it’s particularly dirty, scrub it gently with a toothbrush.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Exterior

Finally, don’t forget to clean the exterior of your machine. Wipe down the control panel, door, and other surfaces with a damp cloth and a mild cleaning solution.

Tip: Keeping the exterior clean helps maintain the machine’s appearance and prevents dust and grime from getting inside.

Maintaining a Clean Washing Machine

Regular maintenance can prevent residue buildup and keep your machine running efficiently.

• Monthly Cleaning: Deep clean your washing machine once a month to keep it in top condition.
• Leave the Door Open: After each wash, open the door or lid to allow the drum to dry out, reducing the risk of mold and mildew.
• Use the Right Detergent: Use high-efficiency (HE) detergent in appropriate amounts to prevent excess suds and residue.

Conclusion

Learning how to deep clean a washing machine is essential for maintaining its efficiency and ensuring your clothes come out fresh and clean. By following these steps and incorporating regular washing machine cleaning into your routine, you can extend the life of your machine and improve its performance. Whether you use the best washing machine cleaner or simple household ingredients like vinegar and baking soda, keeping your machine clean will pay off in the long run.