How to Clean Washing Machine? | Remove Buildup and Odors

Clean your washing machine every 1-3 months by running an empty hot-water cycle with a washer cleaner tablet, then wipe the seal and leave the door open.

A washing machine that smells musty or leaves residue on clothes isn’t broken — it’s just dirty. The buildup of detergent, fabric softener, and hard-water minerals creates the perfect environment for mold and bacteria. The good news is that the full cleaning process takes less than an hour, and you probably already own most of what you need. Here’s the straightforward routine for both top-load and front-load machines, plus the mistakes that cause most people to do it wrong.

What You Need Before You Start

Gather a few basic supplies before you touch the machine. You’ll need a washing machine cleaner tablet (brands like affresh are widely available), white vinegar or liquid chlorine bleach as alternatives, a microfiber cloth or sponge, and an old toothbrush for tight spaces.

Whirlpool recommends affresh Washing Machine Cleaner tablets specifically, and notes that liquid chlorine bleach can be used instead — but only after you’ve checked your model’s use and care guide to confirm it’s safe. That warning matters: some manufacturers explicitly advise against bleach in certain machines.

The Step-by-Step Cleaning Routine

This process works for both top-load and front-load washers, with a few extra steps for front-loaders noted along the way. Run through it monthly for regular maintenance, or more often if you live in a hard-water area or frequently wash heavily soiled loads.

1. Empty the tub completely. Remove any clothes, stray socks, or items left from the last load. Check the drum for loose items that could get caught.
2. Clean the detergent drawer and dispenser. Pull out the drawer if it’s removable and rinse it under warm water, scrubbing away caked-on detergent residue. Wipe the dispenser opening inside the machine too.
3. Add your cleaner to the drum. Drop a washer cleaner tablet into the bottom of the empty tub. If you’re using vinegar or bleach instead, pour one cup (250 ml) directly into the basket — GE Appliances confirms this amount works for either liquid.
4. Run the hottest cycle. Select the washer’s cleaning cycle if your model has one, or choose the hottest, longest normal cycle available. Let it run fully through, including the rinse and spin phases.
5. Wipe down the interior surfaces. Once the cycle finishes, use machine-cleaning wipes or a damp cloth to wipe the inside of the glass or metal drum. For front-loaders, pay special attention to the rubber door seal — lift the gasket and wipe out any trapped water, lint, or debris with a cloth or toothbrush.
6. Clean the filter. Many front-load washers have an accessible drain filter, usually behind a small panel at the bottom front. Open it, remove any debris, rinse the filter under water, and replace it. Check your manual for the exact location on your model.
7. Leave the door open. This step is non-negotiable. Whirlpool and Wirecutter both emphasize leaving the door or lid open after cleaning so the interior can dry completely — a damp, closed machine re-grows mold within days.

For the exterior, Whirlpool advises using only mild soap or gentle cleaners on the surfaces, never harsh abrasives that could scratch the finish.

Common Mistakes That Make Cleaning Fail

Most people clean their washer once, think it didn’t work, and give up. In most cases, the problem is one of these errors:

• Assuming vinegar, bleach, and baking soda are all interchangeable. They’re not. Whirlpool explicitly warns to check your manual before using liquid chlorine bleach instead of a tablet, and mixing cleaners arbitrarily can damage components or create harmful fumes. Pick one method and follow it.
• Skipping the detergent drawer and gasket. These are the two biggest buildup points, and a clean drum with a slimy drawer means odors return fast.
• Closing the door immediately after cleaning. A wet interior is the exact environment mold thrives in. The door stays open until everything is bone dry.
• Cleaning the drum only. The filter, seal, and drawer are part of the system. Neglect them and the machine looks clean while still producing musty-smelling clothes.

How Often Should You Clean It?

Monthly cleaning is the right cadence for most households. If your machine gets heavy use, you have hard water, or you’ve already dealt with mold, clean it every two to three weeks until buildup is under control.

A few signs that your washer needs cleaning sooner than scheduled: a musty smell when you open the door, visible mold spots on the gasket, or clothes coming out with a sour odor. Each of those means the bacteria colony is established and needs immediate attention. If you’re looking for a new machine because yours is past saving, our tested picks for the best washing machines cover current models that handle cleaning cycles better.