How to best clean a washing machine

Let’s face it, who wants a smelly washing machine? While the UK climate might not be that humid, a buildup of detergent and fabric conditioner residue can create a breeding ground for mould or mildew and even bacteria. Don’t wait for musty smells or stained clothes to tell you it’s time for a clean!

Basic steps to cleaning your washing machine

Keeping your washing machine clean ensures it runs smoothly and delivers fresh laundry. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

Step 1: Tackle the gaskets

Start by tackling the door seals and gaskets. Soak some towels in white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. Place these towels on the gasket cavities for an hour to loosen grease or mould. Wipe the area down thoroughly, using a toothbrush for any stubborn residue. Rinse the area with clean water.

Step 2: Deep clean the drum

Now, it’s time for the drum! You have a few options:

• Natural clean: Combine one litre of vinegar and a half cup of baking soda in the detergent dispenser (for a front-loader) or directly in the drum (for a top-loader). Run a hot water cycle on an empty machine.

• Alternative options: If you don’t have vinegar and baking soda, chlorine bleach, enzyme detergent, citric acid, or hydrogen peroxide can be used instead (check your machine’s manual for compatibility).

When using a top-loader, let the water run for a few minutes before adding the cleaning solution. Let the machine run for a minute to mix, then pause the cycle for an hour before completing the wash.

Step 3: Clean while it cleans

As the cleaning cycle works its magic inside the machine, take advantage of this time to tackle the exterior. Use a soft cloth dampened with white vinegar to wipe down the entire washing machine’s surface. Pay particular attention to the control panel, knobs, and detergent dispenser.

Step 4: Run a second hot water cycle

Run a final hot water cycle with a dash of vinegar to remove residue. Leave the door open for a few hours (or overnight) to dry the drum and prevent mildew growth. Wipe the door seal dry for extra protection.

Step 5. Clean all the other parts

Here’s your chance to give your machine a spa day! Use another vinegar-soaked towel to clean the inside of the lid, including hard-to-reach areas like nooks and crannies. Don’t forget the top edges and the rim of the tub. For top-loaders, clean the agitator as well. Finally, wipe down the machine’s exterior for a sparkling finish.

Popular cleaning solutions for washing machines

Keeping your washing machine clean isn’t just about fresh laundry but optimal performance and preventing unpleasant smells. Here’s a breakdown of five popular methods and the ingredients that tackle different cleaning challenges:

The classics: baking soda & vinegar

This dynamic duo is a popular choice for home cleaning. It’s gentle yet effective for removing limescale buildup and keeping your machine smelling fresh.

• 1 litre of white vinegar
• ½ cup baking soda
• Hot water cycle (around 90°C) on a long setting

The downside? This method might not be strong enough for heavily soiled machines or stubborn mould.

Powerhouse combo: enzyme detergent & oxygen bleach

This combination goes beyond basic cleaning. Enzyme detergent targets greasy residues, while oxygen bleach tackles stains and discolouration.

• Powdered enzyme detergent (with high grease-fighting enzymes)
• Oxygen bleach
• Hot water cycle (around 90°C) on the largest load setting

This method is ideal for machines that regularly handle heavily soiled laundry.

Natural all-rounder: citric acid

Citric acid is a natural powerhouse for tackling various washer woes. It removes soap scum and limescale, leaving your machine sparkling clean.

• 1 cup citric acid
• ½ cup baking soda
• Hot water cycle (around 90°C)

This method offers a natural and effective cleaning solution for most washing machine maintenance needs.

Mould terminator: hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide tackles mould, limescale, bacteria, and viruses for a heavy-duty approach. However, it requires extra caution:

• 1 litre of hydrogen peroxide
• Hot water cycle (around 90°C) on a long setting
• Soaking time (around 3 hours) for best results
• May require multiple cycles for front-loading machines

This method is best reserved for machines with significant mould problems.

Odour eliminator: chlorine bleach

While chlorine bleach effectively cleans, it comes with a warning. It’s only suitable for cold or warm water cycles (around 40°C) and can damage certain washing machine components. Additionally, it doesn’t tackle limescale or mould well.

Note: Always check your washing machine’s manual before using any cleaning method, especially chlorine bleach, to avoid damaging components.

How to clean the other parts of a washing machine

Keeping your washing machine clean goes beyond just the drum. Here’s how to tackle other key areas:

Tub rims

Those hard-to-reach areas around the top rim of the washing machine can harbour grime. Grab a towel soaked in white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. Wipe the opening, focusing on the space between the top edges and the rim. Don’t forget those tricky corners!

Detergent drawer

For a front-loader, your detergent drawer needs some love. Consult your manual for specific removal instructions. Once free, soak the drawer in hot water. Scrub away any mould or residue with a toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry completely before placing it back in the machine. Don’t neglect the drawer compartment; clean it with a damp cloth to remove buildup.

Filter

Cleaning the drum and other parts helps eliminate bad odours, but the filter is crucial for optimal washer health. Here’s how to find and clean yours:

• Front-loaders: The filter door is usually located at the front bottom corner of the machine. Place a towel and a shallow dish underneath to catch any water that spills. Unscrew the filter cap and let the water drain out. Soak the filter in warm, soapy water and scrub away debris with a toothbrush.

• Top-loaders: The filter is often located inside the fabric softener dispenser. Consult your manual for specific removal instructions. Once removed, clean it with warm, soapy water and a toothbrush.

How to keep your washing machine clean and fresh

Here are some simple habits to keep your washer running smoothly:

Avoid excess detergent

It might seem counterintuitive, but too much detergent can lead to residue buildup. Check the packaging for recommended dosing and avoid overfilling the dispenser.

Pre-treat when necessary

Heavily soiled clothes can create a breeding ground for bacteria. If your clothes are filthy, consider a quick pre-rinse or pre-treat solution before tossing them in the wash.

Tame the limescale beast

Limescale buildup can contribute to inefficiency. Consider using water softener tablets in your machine or a water softener connected to your plumbing to minimize buildup.

Air it out

Leaving the washing machine door open after each cycle allows moisture to escape, preventing mould growth. For front-loaders, leave the detergent drawer open as well to promote airflow.

Blast with hot water

Run an empty hot water wash cycle at least twice a month. This helps remove any hidden residue and keeps your machine feeling fresh.

Enjoy a clean washing machine with Airtasker

Regular maintenance is key, but even the most diligent washers might need a deeper clean occasionally. If your machine is neglected, multiple cleaning sessions might be needed. This makes professional cleaning services a lifesaver for those seeking a quicker solution. 

By incorporating these simple practices into your laundry routine, you can keep your washing machine in good condition and ensure your clothes smell their best.