How to Clean Your Washing Machine and Keep It Fresh

Clean your washing machine monthly by running an empty hot water cycle with white vinegar or baking soda, then wiping down all surfaces and leaving the door open to air dry.

1. Remove and soak dispensers first. Remove all detergent trays and dispensers from your machine. Soak them in warm soapy water for 15 minutes, then scrub away any built-up residue with an old toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and set aside to dry completely before reinstalling.
2. Target the mold magnets. Use a damp microfiber cloth with a small amount of mild detergent to clean the inside of the drum. Pay special attention to the rubber door seal on front-loading machines where mold and mildew love to hide. Pull back the seal gently and clean underneath it, removing any hair, lint, or debris you find.
3. Let vinegar do the heavy work. Pour 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum. Run the hottest, longest cycle available on your machine without any clothes inside. The vinegar will break down soap scum, mineral deposits, and kill bacteria and mold throughout the system.
4. Neutralize what vinegar left behind. After the vinegar cycle completes, sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda directly into the drum. Run another hot cycle to neutralize odors and remove any remaining residue. This one-two punch tackles both buildup and smells effectively.
5. Don't forget the hidden filter. Wipe down the outside of your machine with an all-purpose cleaner. If you have a front-loading washer, locate and clean the drain pump filter at the bottom front panel. Remove any lint, coins, or debris you find there.
6. Air it out completely. After cleaning, leave the washer door and detergent drawer open for several hours to allow complete air circulation. This prevents moisture buildup that leads to mold and mildew growth.