How to Clean Your Washing Machine for Fresh-Smelling Laundry

Why Washing Machines Need Cleaning

It seems counterintuitive - surely a machine that cleans should clean itself? Unfortunately, residue from detergent, fabric softener, and dirt from clothes accumulates over time, leading to:

• Musty odours on clothes
• Visible mould around seals
• Reduced cleaning performance
• Potential machine breakdown

Signs Your Washing Machine Needs Cleaning

• Clothes smell musty after washing
• Visible grime around the door seal
• Residue on the drum
• Blocked or slow drainage
• Mould or mildew visible anywhere

Monthly Maintenance Clean

What You'll Need

• White vinegar
• Bicarbonate of soda
• Microfibre cloth
• Old toothbrush
• Small bowl

The Drum

1. Run an empty hot wash at 60°C or higher
2. Add 2 cups white vinegar directly to the drum
3. Run the longest cycle without any clothes
4. Wipe the inside when finished

Alternative Method

Some people prefer to use:

• Soda crystals (available in UK supermarkets)
• Washing machine cleaner tablets
• Dishwasher tablets (on a hot cycle)

Deep Cleaning the Parts

Door Seal (Rubber Gasket)

The seal is a mould hotspot:

1. Pull back the rubber to expose the folds
2. Mix bicarbonate of soda with water to form a paste
3. Apply with a cloth and scrub
4. Use an old toothbrush for stubborn spots
5. Wipe clean with a damp cloth
6. Dry thoroughly

Detergent Drawer

1. Remove the drawer completely (check manual for how)
2. Soak in hot soapy water for 30 minutes
3. Scrub all parts with an old toothbrush
4. Pay attention to the compartment dividers
5. Clean the cavity where the drawer sits
6. Dry completely before replacing

Filter

Most machines have a filter that needs regular cleaning:

1. Locate the filter (usually at the front bottom)
2. Place towels underneath - water will come out!
3. Unscrew slowly to let water drain
4. Remove debris (coins, hairpins, lint)
5. Rinse under running water
6. Replace securely

Exterior

Wipe down the outside of the machine, including the control panel, with a damp cloth.

Preventing Problems

After Every Wash

• Leave the door open to air out
• Wipe the door seal dry
• Remove clothes promptly

Weekly

• Wipe the door seal
• Clean the detergent drawer
• Leave door open when not in use

Monthly

• Run a hot maintenance wash
• Check and clean the filter

Use Products Correctly

• Don't overuse detergent (more isn't better)
• Use the right type for your machine
• Follow dosage instructions
• Reduce fabric softener use

Hot Water Cycles

Modern washing habits - cold and quick washes - contribute to buildup. Running at least one hot cycle (60°C+) per week helps:

• Dissolve residue
• Kill bacteria and mould
• Keep the drum fresh
• Maintain drainage

Front-Loader vs Top-Loader

Front-Loaders

More prone to mould due to:

• Rubber door seal
• Horizontal drum design
• Water sits at the bottom

Extra care: Always wipe the seal and leave door open.

Top-Loaders

Less mould-prone but still need:

• Regular hot cycles
• Drum cleaning
• Lid left open

When to Call a Professional

Consider a professional service clean or repair when:

• Persistent odour despite cleaning
• Visible mould that won't shift
• Machine not draining properly
• Drum not spinning correctly
• Error codes appearing
• Strange noises during operation