Wash, dry, fold, repeat. That’s all there is to laundry, right? Not so fast. Did you know that, just like the items you put in it, your washing machine needs a little TLC, too? As the unsung hero of your laundry room, your washer works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep your clothes clean. But over time, detergent residue, fabric softener buildup, and even hard water can sneak in and cause problems like lingering odors, buildup, and even less effective washing. That’s where a little routine cleaning comes in—it’s easier than you think, and more important than you might realize.
If you’re still gearing up for spring cleaning or just wanting to keep your washer in top shape, knowing how to clean it properly can save you time, money, and frustration. To help point you in the right direction, read these tips to leave both your washer and laundry fresh and clean.
How often should you clean your washing machine?
No one wants detergent build-up in their washer—besides looking gross, it’s a haven for odor-causing bacteria. If you notice any funky smells or detergent streaks on your clothes, it’s time to give your machine a little love. “If you are having to remove detergent residue from your machine, then you should clean it at least weekly," says Taylor Sutherland, president of Charlie's Soap, a cleaning brand known for its eco-friendly laundry detergent.
Sutherland also recommends running a vinegar rinse if you have hard water. “The more frequently you run a vinegar rinse through the machine, the less likely you are to have visible, rock-hard scale that is a complete pain to remove,” he explains.
How to clean a top-loading washing machine:
For top-loaders, it’s all about preventing detergent build-up, so Sutherland suggests using a descaling tablet or a product like sodium citrate. “This will dissolve both lime residue as well as many detergent residues,” he says. If you’re short on time (and who isn’t?), a quick wipe-down with an all-purpose cleaner on the drum, agitator, and bleach dispenser will do wonders in removing that yucky residue.
How to stop your washing machine from smelling:
Ah, the dreaded smell. If you've got it, Sutherland says front-loading washing machines are usually the culprits. That's because they’re water-tight, and water can get trapped in parts of the machine, growing bacteria and causing bad odors. The solution? Regular vinegar rinses. “For front loaders, do a frequent vinegar rinse to dislodge residues, break down lime, and kill the bacteria,” Sutherland says. Plus, always keep the door propped open after a load to help with airflow and drying. For top loaders, switching to a residue-free detergent can make a huge difference in preventing lingering smells.
Can household cleaners be used for washing machine maintenance?
Good news: "Absolutely. Many of them are simple cleaners that work well," says Sutherland. However, some cleaners are too harsh and can cause damage. Sutherland recommends using low-pH cleaners for scale removal and avoiding anything with a pH of 12 or higher, as it can harm the plastic or rubber gaskets in your machine. It’s also important to skip cleaners with added fragrances, as they leave chemicals behind, which of course is exactly what you’re trying to avoid.
How to clean the rubber gasket in front-loading washers:
The rubber gasket is the hidden hero of your washing machine, but it can also be the biggest culprit for trapping grime and mold. To clean it, Sutherland advises, “You’ll want to open the door, wet the gasket with water, and use a mild, fragrance-free all-purpose cleaner.” Be sure to wipe the gasket down a few times to ensure you’re getting rid of any residue. And don’t forget to leave the door open afterward—this lets the gasket dry out completely and prevents mold.
With just a little care and attention, your washing machine will be running smoothly, and your laundry will be fresh and clean every time. Happy washing!
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment, holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.
