How to Clean Your Washing Machine and Prevent Mold and Odors
Safety Warning
Ensure the washing machine is completely empty and the door is unlocked before starting. Do not reach into the drum while it's spinning or in motion. If your machine uses bleach or cleaning tablets, ensure adequate ventilation as fumes can irritate eyes and respiratory system—open a window or door nearby. Never mix bleach with other cleaners like vinegar or ammonia, as this creates toxic chlorine gas. If you have asthma or respiratory sensitivity, wear a mask while running cleaning cycles.
Regular washing machine cleaning prevents mold, mildew, and foul odors from accumulating in your drum and gasket—keeping your clothes fresh and your machine running efficiently. This simple monthly maintenance task takes less than an hour and requires only common household items. Anyone can do this without special skills or professional help.
What You'll Need
Supplies
- •White Vinegar (1 gallon)($3-5)
- •Commercial Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets (Affresh or equivalent)(optional)($5-8)
- •Liquid Bleach (if using for top-load machines)(optional)($3-4)
- •Microfiber Cleaning Cloths (pack)($5-10)
Tools
- •Old Toothbrush(optional)
- •Flashlight or Phone Light(optional)
- •Bucket (for soaking dispensers)(optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Empty and Inspect the Drum
Open the washing machine door and visually inspect the drum for any items left behind, lint, or debris. Remove any objects you find, including coins, buttons, or small pieces of clothing. Check the rubber gasket (the seal around the door) for visible mold, mildew, or buildup—this is where moisture and detergent residue accumulate most.
Pro Tip: Use a flashlight to see into darker corners of the drum and behind the gasket.
Wipe Down the Rubber Gasket
Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe the entire rubber gasket thoroughly, paying special attention to the creases and folds where mold hides. For stubborn buildup, dampen the cloth with a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water, then wipe again. Rinse the cloth and do a final pass with plain water to remove any residue or vinegar smell.
Pro Tip: Check the gasket monthly and do this step even if you don't run a full cleaning cycle—it's the most common spot for mold to grow.
Clean the Detergent and Fabric Softener Dispensers
Locate your washing machine's detergent dispenser and fabric softener dispenser drawers (usually on the top of front-load machines or built into the lid of top-load machines). Slide or pull out the dispensers and rinse them under warm running water to remove dried detergent buildup. For stubborn residue, soak the dispensers in warm water for 10 minutes, then scrub gently with an old toothbrush.
Pro Tip: Some dispensers are removable; check your manual or look for small clips or tabs that allow you to pop them out completely for easier cleaning.
Run a Cleaning Cycle with Vinegar (for Front-Load Machines)
Pour 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum of an empty front-load washing machine. Run the machine on the hottest water setting available, selecting the longest or 'cleaning' cycle if your machine has one. This vinegar cycle will dissolve detergent buildup and kill odor-causing bacteria without damaging your machine.
Pro Tip: If your machine has a specific 'clean drum' or 'sanitize' cycle, use that instead—many newer machines have this built-in feature.
Run a Cleaning Cycle with Bleach or Cleaning Tablet (for Top-Load Machines)
For top-load machines, either pour 2 cups of liquid bleach into the empty drum or drop a commercial washing machine cleaning tablet (like Affresh or Dr. Machine Cleaner) into the drum. Run the machine on the hottest water setting and the longest cycle available. Let the cycle complete fully to ensure the cleaner reaches all interior surfaces.
Pro Tip: Never use both vinegar and bleach in the same cycle. Top-load machines typically benefit more from bleach, while front-loaders respond well to vinegar—choose the cleaner that matches your machine type.
Wipe Down the Exterior and Door
While the cleaning cycle runs or after it completes, dampen a microfiber cloth with water and wipe the exterior of the washing machine, including the control panel, door handle, and frame. For any buildup or stains on the exterior, use a 1:1 vinegar-and-water solution. Dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.
Pro Tip: Pay extra attention to the door handle and buttons, which collect body oils and dirt from frequent handling.
Leave the Door Open to Air Dry
After the cleaning cycle finishes, leave the washing machine door or lid open for at least 2 hours to allow moisture to evaporate completely. This step is crucial for preventing mold and mildew from returning immediately after cleaning. Do not close the door until the interior is fully dry.
Pro Tip: Open the door right away after the cycle ends; don't let damp conditions sit for hours before airing out.
Clean the Inlet Filters (Optional Monthly Check)
For front-load machines, check the inlet filters located where the water hose connects to the back of the machine (consult your manual for exact location). If accessible without tools, run them under warm water or use an old toothbrush to gently remove any sediment or mineral deposits. This prevents water flow issues and extends machine life.
Pro Tip: Inlet filters are often small mesh screens; if they're clogged with mineral deposits in hard-water areas, replacing them annually is worthwhile.
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