Laundry Savior: How to Deep Clean Your Washing Machine Inside and Out

a girl is sitting next to washing machine with white background

Ever wonder why your clothes smell weird and musty after washing? Well, there are a number of reasons that can be involved in this but the major reason is that your washing machine is accumulated with a lot of dust, mold, and mildew because of regular usage and not deep cleaning the machine. 

Also, not only this but with regular washing water, detergent, and soil stuck to the inner parts and drum can possibly leave stains and marks on your clothes in every wash, when the machine is not thoroughly cleaned. 

Therefore, it is extremely important to deeply clean your washing machine. In this article, we will be going to discuss a detailed guide on how to clean washing machines inside and out. 

Is it better to use bleach or vinegar to clean the washing machine?

If you are looking for the best way to clean your washing machine then bleach or vinegar both work well in their own way. If you are looking for a milder way to clean your washing machine then vinegar works best because it is not as harsh as chlorine bleach making it a perfect option for you. 

But if your washing machine is extremely dirty and doesn’t clean in the last 8 to 12 months then it is highly recommended to use chlorine bleach instead of vinegar.  Now, you might be thinking that chlorine will be too harsh for your washing machine then all you can do is run 1 or 2 cycles in the washing machine with warm water and about ½ cup of chlorine bleach and you are washing machine is good to go. 

What is the best way to clean the washing machine? 

The best way to clean the inside of a washing machine is through a simple yet effective process. Start by removing any leftover clothes or debris from the drum. Then, mix equal parts of water and distilled white vinegar, and pour the solution into the detergent dispenser. Run a hot water cycle without any clothes, allowing the vinegar to remove mineral deposits and detergent buildup. 

Next, wipe down the interior surfaces, including the door gasket and detergent drawer, with a soft cloth soaked in the vinegar solution. For stubborn stains or mold, use a mild detergent or baking soda paste to scrub the affected areas. Finally, run a second hot water cycle to rinse the machine thoroughly. This regular maintenance will help keep your washing machine clean, fresh, and working efficiently for years to come.

How to clean a top-loading washing machine? 

Cleaning the top-loading washing machine is not as difficult as it sounds. To ensure maximum performance of your washing machine and keep your laundry fresh and free from bad odors it is important to frequently clean the top-loading of your washing machine. To begin, remove any clothes from the drum and check if there are any leftover items. 

Next, create a cleaning solution by mixing equal parts of water and distilled white vinegar. Pour the solution into the detergent dispenser and set the machine for a hot water cycle without any clothes. 

The vinegar will help dissolve mineral deposits and detergent buildup. Once the cycle time is out, use soft clothes (for example a microfiber towel) dip in vinegar, and gently clean the internal space of the washing machine, including the drum. While cleaning the inner areas of the washing machine don’t forget to clean the out body of the washing machine.

How to clean the washer dispenser? 

Apart from cleaning the top-loading of the washing machine, it is also important to clean the washer dispenser. This will maintain a hygienic and efficient washing machine. To begin, remove the detergent drawer from the machine carefully. Rinse the drawer under warm water to remove any leftover detergent or fabric softener residue. 

Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the drawer, ensuring all buildup is removed. If there are stubborn stains or hardened deposits, soak the drawer in a mixture of warm water and vinegar for a few minutes before scrubbing. 

Once clean, dry the drawer thoroughly, and reinsert it into the washing machine. By cleaning the washer dispenser on a regular basis, you may avoid obstructions, ensure that the detergent is dispensed correctly, and maintain a pleasant smell in your laundry.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my washing machine?

It is advised that you clean your washing machine at least once each month in order to avoid having a washing machine that is unclean and has an unpleasant smell.

Can I use bleach to clean my washing machine?

It is best to avoid using bleach, as it can damage the machine’s components. Although, you can dilute it and then use it. Moreover, you can also use mild detergents or natural cleaning agents like vinegar and baking soda.

How can I prevent detergent buildup in the machine?

Use the correct amount of detergent for each load and avoid overloading the machine to prevent detergent residue buildup.

How do I clean a smelly washing machine?

Baking soda, bleach, or vinegar are all excellent options for a thorough cleaning of your washing machine that will also eliminate any unpleasant odors that may be present. In addition to this, you need to make sure that you clean your washing machine on a regular basis.