Deep Cleaning Your Washing Machine Is a Lot Easier Than You Think

Our washing machines take care of our clothes day in and day out, but it also demands some sort of maintenance and cleaning in return. Over time, detergent residue, dirt, and moisture build up inside, creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, mildew, and that musty smell no one wants in their fresh laundry. If you’ve ever noticed your washer doesn’t smell as clean as it should, or your clothes aren’t coming out as fresh as they used to, it’s time to figure out how to clean the washing machine properly. 

Cleaning your washing machine is easier than you think. It does not require expensive detergents. The truth is, with just a few household staples you can get rid of grime, banish odors, and make sure your washer runs like a dream. 

Let’s break it down step by step so your washing machine can do what it does best—keep your clothes truly clean.

Step 1: Start with a Baking Soda Wash

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and gentle abrasive which makes it perfect for tackling built-up detergent residue and hidden grime inside the drum. Start by pouring two cups of baking soda directly into the tub. If your washer has a tub clean cycle, use that; otherwise, set it to a normal cycle on the hottest temperature setting.

“This step is a game-changer for eliminating hidden buildup,” says cleaning expert Pandelis. “Baking soda scrubs the drum naturally and removes funky smells that detergent alone can’t fix.”

As the baking soda dissolves and the hot water works its way through, it breaks down soap scum, fabric softener residue, and anything else lurking inside. When the cycle is done, leave the door open for a few minutes to let air circulate before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Follow Up with a Vinegar Rinse

If you thought baking soda was impressive, wait until you see what vinegar can do. White vinegar is a natural disinfectant, and it cuts through lingering detergent buildup, kills bacteria, and neutralizes odors at the source.

Take two cups of white vinegar and pour it into the detergent dispenser. For extra cleaning power, add ten drops of tea tree or lavender essential oil—both have antimicrobial properties and will leave your washer smelling fresh. Run another hot cycle.

“The vinegar works like magic,” says Pandelis. “Not only does it dissolve detergent residue, but it also neutralizes odors at the source.”

This step helps clear out the internal components of the machine, from the drum to the hoses, and prevent mold and mildew from forming in those hard-to-reach places. Once the cycle finishes, leave the door open again to allow for drying.

Step 3: Clean the Gasket and Detergent Dispenser

For front-loading machines, the rubber gasket around the door is one of the worst spots for mold and grime. That little flap traps water, detergent residue, and even lint, making it a breeding ground for bacteria.

To clean it, mix equal parts white vinegar and dish soap in a spray bottle. Add ten drops of essential oil, shake well, and spray the solution generously on the gasket. Use an old toothbrush or sponge to scrub out the grime, paying extra attention to any black mold or residue hiding in the folds. Wipe it dry with a microfiber cloth.

Next up, the detergent dispenser. If you’ve never cleaned yours before, chances are it’s caked with old detergent and fabric softener. Most dispensers can be pulled out completely, so remove it and scrub it with your vinegar solution. Rinse under warm water, dry, and put it back in place.

“This is one of the most overlooked parts of washing machine maintenance,” Pandelis explains. “A dirty dispenser can cause detergent buildup, making your machine less efficient over time.”

Step 4: Don’t Ignore the Drain Filter

This one surprises a lot of people—your washer has a drain filter, and if you’ve never cleaned it, it’s probably full of lint, hair, and gunk. Located behind a small panel near the bottom of front-loading machines, this filter catches debris before it reaches the drain pump.

To clean it, open the trap door, place a towel underneath (there may be some water), and pull out the filter. If it’s full of lint and grime, rinse it under warm water and scrub it with a toothbrush.

“If you’ve never cleaned your filter before, you might find some nasty surprises,” Pandelis warns. “But doing this once a month prevents clogs and keeps your washer running smoothly.”

Once it’s clean, dry it off, secure it back in place, and close the panel.

Step 5: Keep It Fresh with Simple Daily Habits

Now that your washing machine is sparkling clean, a few small habits will keep it that way. After every load, leave the door open for air circulation—this prevents moisture from getting trapped inside, which is the main cause of mold and mildew.

At least once a week, wipe down the drum and door with your vinegar solution to prevent residue from building up again. If you want to make things even easier, toss in a washing machine cleaning tablet once a month.

“If you don’t want to use baking soda and vinegar every time, these tablets are a convenient alternative,” Pandelis suggests.

How to Clean a Washing Machine for Long-Term Maintenance

A deep clean once a month is great, but regular maintenance is what keeps your washer running like new. Here’s what you should be doing:

• Use the right amount of detergent. Too much soap leads to residue buildup.
• Remove wet clothes promptly to prevent musty smells.
• Wipe down the drum, door, and gasket after every few loads.
• Run a vinegar rinse every few weeks to break down soap scum.
• Taking a few extra minutes to care for your washer means fresher laundry and fewer breakdowns in the long run.

“Think of it as routine maintenance, just like changing the oil in your car,” Pandelis says. “A little effort now prevents bigger problems down the road.”