Keep Your Laundry Smelling Fresh: How to Clean Your Washing Machine

Your washing machine cleans everything from workout clothes to cozy bedding—but when was the last time you cleaned it? Over time, soap residue, fabric softener, and trapped moisture create a breeding ground for mildew and odors, which can make even freshly laundered clothes smell off.

Luckily, with a quick routine clean, you can keep your washer at peak performance, ensure your laundry smells fresh, and extend the life of your machine. Here’s how to clean front-loaders and top-loaders—plus tips to prevent mildew, tackle filters, and keep mold away for good.

Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Matters

Washing machines might seem self-cleaning, but over time they collect:

• Soap Scum and Residue: Excess detergent can stick to the drum and drain.
• Mildew and Mold: Moisture buildup in seals and dispensers creates odors.
• Lint and Debris: Clogged filters can reduce performance and lead to drain issues.

A simple 30-minute clean every 1–3 months ensures your machine runs efficiently, keeps odors at bay, and protects your investment.

How to Clean Your Washing Machine

Front-Load Washing Machines

1. Clean the Drum:
   • Spray the inside of the drum with distilled white vinegar.
   • Wipe thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.
2. Scrub the Rubber Gasket:
   • Mix equal parts vinegar and baking soda.
   • Use an old toothbrush to clean the rubber seal around the door, removing gunk and mildew.
3. Run Cleaning Cycles:
   • Cycle 1: Run a hot water cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar in the detergent dispenser.
   • Cycle 2: Add ½ cup of baking soda directly to the drum and run another hot cycle.
4. Wipe Down Exterior:
   • Use soapy water or an all-purpose cleaner to clean the outside and control panel.
5. Air It Out:
   • Leave the door open to prevent moisture buildup.

Top-Load Washing Machines

1. Run a Vinegar Soak:
   • Set the washer to its hottest, largest setting and add 4 cups of white vinegar.
   • Pause the cycle to let the vinegar soak for 1 hour.
2. Scrub Inside the Drum:
   • Wipe the drum with a cloth soaked in vinegar and baking soda.
3. Add Baking Soda:
   • After the first cycle, add 1 cup of baking soda and run another hot water cycle.
4. Wipe Down Lid and Controls:
   • Use a cloth with soapy water or vinegar to clean the lid, control panel, and exterior.
5. Leave the Lid Open:
   • Let the drum dry out to prevent mold growth.

Why Your Washing Machine Filter Matters

Many washing machines have a hidden filter that traps lint, debris, and small items from your laundry. Over time, these filters get clogged, reducing the machine’s efficiency and causing drainage problems.

How to Clean the Filter:

1. Locate It: Check the manual—filters are often under the agitator, in the drum rim, or behind a small panel at the front.
2. Remove Gunk: Take out the filter and clear away lint, hair, and debris.
3. Rinse and Soak: Wash the filter in warm water with vinegar or soap. Use an old toothbrush for stubborn grime.
4. Reinstall: Place the clean filter back and run a rinse cycle to ensure everything works smoothly.

Tip: Clean the filter monthly to prevent buildup and keep your machine in top shape.

How to Avoid Mold and Mildew Long-Term

Mold and mildew thrive in warm, damp environments—like your washing machine. To prevent future buildup:

1. Always Air It Out: Leave the door (front-loaders) or lid (top-loaders) open after every wash to let moisture evaporate.
2. Wipe It Down: Keep a microfiber cloth nearby and wipe the drum, gaskets, and lids after every load.
3. Skip Fabric Softener: Softener leaves residue that traps moisture. Use white vinegar in the rinse cycle instead—it softens clothes naturally and helps combat mold.
4. Run a Monthly Maintenance Cycle: Use hot water with vinegar or a cleaner like Affresh to kill bacteria and odors.
5. Control Humidity: If your laundry room gets humid, consider a dehumidifier or silica gel packs to keep the area dry.

Tools and Products to Make the Job Easier

• White Vinegar: A natural powerhouse for dissolving mildew and soap scum.
• Baking Soda: Great for neutralizing odors and scrubbing tough spots.
• Affresh Washing Machine Tablets: A convenient solution for monthly deep cleans.
• Microfiber Cloth: Perfect for wiping surfaces without leaving lint.
• Old Toothbrush: Essential for scrubbing seals and filters.

The Quick Fix for a Smelly Washing Machine

If your machine smells musty:

1. Wipe down the drum, seals, and dispensers with vinegar.
2. Run a hot water cycle with 2 cups of vinegar.
3. Follow up with a cycle using ½ cup of baking soda in the drum.
4. Leave the door or lid open to dry.

For persistent odors, use Affresh or a similar machine-cleaning tablet monthly to deep clean hard-to-reach areas.

Conclusion

A clean washing machine is the key to fresh-smelling laundry and a longer-lasting appliance. By spending just 30 minutes every few months—plus a little preventative care—you can keep your washer mildew-free and running like new.

Start by tackling the drum, seals, and filters, and make it a habit to wipe surfaces after every load. Small steps add up to a cleaner, fresher laundry room you’ll actually look forward to using.

Ready to keep your home running smoothly? For more cleaning tips and budget-friendly home ideas, explore our guides and discover tools to make every task easier!