Have you ever pulled a load of laundry from the washer only to find your clothes still looking dull, smelling off, or feeling less fresh than expected? It might not be your detergent—or even how dirty your clothes were. The real culprit could be your washing machine itself.
Yes, even the appliance that cleans your clothes needs cleaning too—and most of us forget to do it entirely. Over time, soap scum, detergent residue, hard water minerals, and mildew build up inside the drum, seals, and dispensers, leaving your laundry less clean than it should be.
The good news? Deep-cleaning your washing machine is simple, inexpensive, and takes just two cycles. Here’s how to do it right.
Step 1: Deep-Clean the Drum with Vinegar
Start by running an empty hot-water cycle with 1–2 cups of distilled white vinegar added directly to the drum.
- Use the hottest water setting available.
- Select the longest cycle (like “Clean Tub” or “Sanitize” if your machine has it).
Vinegar naturally dissolves mineral deposits, breaks down soap scum, and eliminates odors—all without harsh chemicals.
Step 2: Refresh with Baking Soda
Once the vinegar cycle finishes, run a second empty hot cycle, this time adding 1 cup of baking soda to the drum.
Baking soda neutralizes any lingering vinegar scent while lifting residual grime and deodorizing the interior. Together, these two pantry staples leave your machine fresh, clean, and odor-free.
Step 3: Tackle the Hidden Spots
While the drum gets most of the attention, grime loves to hide in overlooked areas:
- Detergent and fabric softener dispensers
- The rubber door gasket (front-loaders)
- Under the lid (top-loaders)
- The rim of the drum and around the door seal
To clean these spots:
- Make a paste of baking soda and water (or use vinegar for extra cutting power).
- For tougher buildup or mold, a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 4 parts water) works well—just never mix bleach with vinegar!
- Use an old toothbrush to scrub crevices thoroughly.
- Wipe everything down with a damp microfiber cloth.
Maintenance Tip: Keep It Clean Longer
For best results, deep-clean your washing machine every 1–2 months—or monthly if you wash frequently, use cold water often, or live in a humid climate.
Also, leave the door or lid open between loads to allow air circulation and prevent mildew.
A clean washing machine doesn’t just smell better—it works better. By removing hidden buildup, you’ll notice brighter whites, fresher-smelling clothes, and improved performance overall.
So give your trusty appliance the care it deserves. Your laundry—and your nose—will thank you.
(Inspired by cleaning wisdom from Apartment Therapy!)
