Why and How to Clean Your Washing Machine Regularly

After a period of frequent use, your washing machine drum will naturally accumulate dirt, detergent residue, and lint. To keep your clothes fresh and your appliance running efficiently, regular cleaning is essential.

Why You Should Clean Your Washing Machine

The washing machine is an indispensable household appliance in modern life. Over time, however, constant use causes soap scum, lint, and mineral buildup to form inside the drum and pipes. If left uncleaned, these residues become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, resulting in unpleasant odors and reducing the quality of your wash.

A dirty washing machine not only fails to clean your clothes properly but also works less efficiently, increasing energy consumption and shortening its lifespan. Periodic maintenance helps your machine operate smoothly, enhances its cleaning performance, and prevents unpleasant smells from transferring onto your clothes. It also saves you the cost of early repairs or replacements.

Steps to Clean a Washing Machine

1. Clean the Drum with Baking Soda

Many people focus only on wiping the machine’s exterior but overlook the most important part — the inner drum. The drum is constantly exposed to moisture and detergent residues, making it an ideal environment for bacteria and mold growth.

To disinfect and remove grime, you can use baking soda, a safe and natural cleaning agent found in many commercial washer-cleaning products.

Here’s how:

• Mix 250 grams of baking soda with 2–3 cups of white vinegar.

• Pour the mixture directly into the drum.

• Set your washer to a warm water wash cycle.

• When the drum is full of water, pause the cycle and let it soak for about 30 minutes.

• After soaking, resume the wash cycle and let it complete normally.

• Once done, unplug the machine and wipe the drum dry with a clean cloth.

Pay special attention to the rubber gasket (door seal) — this is where dirt and mildew often build up. For top-loading washers, remove the lint filter and rinse it thoroughly under running water to remove trapped debris.

For front-loading washers, locate the filter compartment near the bottom front panel, open it carefully, and clean out any lint, hair, or residue inside. Keeping this part clean prevents clogging and ensures better drainage.

2. Clean the Drum with Vinegar

If you don’t have baking soda on hand, white vinegar is another excellent alternative. It’s inexpensive, easy to find, and highly effective at dissolving soap scum, eliminating bacteria, and neutralizing odors thanks to its natural acidity.

To clean with vinegar:

• Fill the washing machine with warm water (select the appropriate cycle).

• Once the drum is full, pause the wash and add 3–4 cups of white vinegar.

• Let the solution soak for about 30 minutes.

• Resume the cycle and allow the machine to complete it fully.

After cleaning, wipe the drum and the rubber gasket again with a dry cloth to remove any remaining residue. For front-loading machines, remember to leave the door open for a few hours afterward — this allows moisture to evaporate and helps prevent mold growth.

Additional Maintenance Tips

• Clean monthly: Ideally, deep-clean your washing machine once every 3–4 weeks if you use it frequently.

• Avoid overloading: Overloading stresses the drum and leaves detergent residue behind.

• Use the right detergent: High-efficiency (HE) detergents produce fewer suds and prevent buildup.

• Wipe after every wash: Quickly wiping the drum and door gasket after each cycle reduces moisture and prevents odors.

Regular cleaning not only keeps your washing machine hygienic but also ensures your clothes come out smelling fresh and truly clean every time. With just a few simple steps using natural ingredients like baking soda and vinegar, you can extend your appliance’s lifespan and maintain optimal washing performance effortlessly.