05 May How to Clean Your Washing Machine for Fresher Laundry Every Time”

How to clean washing machine may not be the first thing on your to-do list, but it’s one task you shouldn’t ignore. A dirty washing machine doesn’t just smell bad – it also leaves your clothes looking and smelling less than fresh. Soap scum, fabric softener residue, and trapped dirt all build up over time, reducing your washer’s efficiency and making every wash less effective.

The good news? With just a few simple steps, you can deep-clean your machine and enjoy fresher laundry every single time. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to clean washing machine properly – from the detergent drawer to the drum and everything in between. Let’s dive in and get your washer looking (and smelling) like new.

How to Clean Washing Machine: Step-by-Step Guide

Cleaning your washing machine might sound like a chore, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, if you stick to a regular routine, the process becomes quick and painless. Here’s how to clean washing machine effectively at home:

✅ Clean the Detergent Drawer First

Start with the detergent drawer. Pull it out completely and soak it in warm soapy water. Use an old toothbrush to scrub away any mould or leftover detergent. Once it’s clean, rinse and dry it before sliding it back into place.

Why start here? Because build-up in the detergent drawer often leads to unpleasant odours and reduced cleaning power.

✅ Wipe Down the Rubber Seal

Next, turn your attention to the rubber door seal. This area collects a surprising amount of grime, including hair, lint, and even mould. Lift the seal gently and wipe underneath it using a cloth soaked in white vinegar or an anti-mould spray.

Be thorough – this is a common source of odour in front-loading machines.

✅ Run a Hot Wash Cycle with Vinegar and Bicarbonate of Soda

Now it’s time to give the inside a deep clean. Pour two cups of white vinegar directly into the drum and add half a cup of bicarbonate of soda. Set your washer to the hottest cycle and let it run.

This natural combo breaks down limescale, removes residue, and kills bacteria – all without harsh chemicals.

✅ Clean the Filter and Drain Pump

Don’t skip the filter! It collects debris that doesn’t get rinsed away during a wash. Locate the filter (usually at the bottom front of the machine), place a towel and tray underneath, then unscrew the cap slowly to let the water drain out. Remove any visible gunk and rinse the filter thoroughly.

Regularly cleaning the filter keeps your washing machine running smoothly.

✅ Wipe the Drum and Exterior

Once the cycle finishes, open the door and wipe the inside of the drum with a microfibre cloth. Then, clean the exterior using a damp cloth and a gentle cleaner. This step helps maintain your machine’s appearance and prevents dust build-up.

Why You Need to Know Ways to Clean Washing Machine Regularly

Many people assume their washing machine stays clean because it uses detergent and water. However, that’s far from the truth. Without regular cleaning, your machine collects detergent residue, fabric softener build-up, body oils, and even bits of fluff and dirt. Over time, this creates a breeding ground for mould, mildew, and bacteria.

Knowing how to clean washing machine means you’ll enjoy fresher laundry, longer-lasting appliances, and fewer maintenance issues. Plus, it helps eliminate those unpleasant musty smells that sometimes linger on supposedly “clean” clothes.

Signs Your Washing Machine Needs Cleaning

If you’re unsure whether it’s time to clean your washing machine, look out for these warning signs:

• Unpleasant odours coming from the drum or detergent drawer
• Mould or black marks around the rubber door seal
• Clothes that smell stale even after washing
• Water draining slowly or not draining at all
• Visible build-up in the detergent drawer or door seal

If you notice any of these, it’s definitely time to put your knowledge of how to clean washing machine to use.

How Often Should You Clean?

Regular cleaning prevents build-up and keeps your machine running efficiently. Here’s a quick maintenance schedule:

• Once a month: Deep clean the drum, rubber seal, and detergent drawer
• Every 2–3 months: Clean the filter and run a hot cycle with vinegar and bicarb
• After every wash, leave the door open to air out the drum and wipe down any moisture

Following this routine ensures you won’t have to wonder when or how to clean washing machine next—it’ll become second nature.

Best Cleaning Products to Use

You don’t need harsh chemicals to get the job done. Some of the best options include:

• White vinegar cuts through limescale and kills bacteria
• Bicarbonate of soda – deodorises and removes residue
• Mild dish soap – ideal for the detergent drawer and outer surfaces
• Toothbrush or small brush – perfect for scrubbing tight spaces
• Microfibre cloths – trap dust and clean without scratching

Using natural products is not only better for your machine but also safer for your clothes and skin.

Final Thoughts on How to Clean Washing Machine

Now that you know exactly how to clean washing machine from top to bottom, it’s time to make it part of your regular routine. Just like any other appliance, your washer needs care and attention to perform at its best. By tackling build-up, wiping seals, and running monthly cleaning cycles, you’ll prevent odours, protect your clothes, and extend the life of your machine.

It only takes a few minutes each month, but the difference in your laundry and the longevity of your appliance is well worth the effort. So, don’t wait for your washing machine to start smelling musty. Take action today and enjoy fresher, cleaner laundry every time.