Your washing machine cleans your clothes—but who cleans the washing machine? Over time, detergent residue, hard water minerals, mold, and bacteria quietly build up inside. The result? Musty smells, dull laundry, and reduced performance.
The good news? You don’t need a technician or expensive products. By following these 11 professional-grade cleaning steps, you can restore your washing machine to like-new condition—right at home.
Let’s get started.
Step 1: Unplug the Washing Machine for Safety
Before cleaning anything, disconnect the power supply. This protects you from electrical hazards and allows you to clean internal parts confidently.
Pro tip: Also turn off the water supply if you’ll be accessing hoses.
Step 2: Empty the Machine Completely
Make sure there are:
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No clothes
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No lint
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No forgotten items in the drum or pockets
A completely empty washer ensures the cleaning agents work directly on buildup—not laundry.
Step 3: Clean the Detergent Drawer Thoroughly
Detergent and fabric softener drawers often hide mold and sticky residue.
How to clean it:
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Remove the drawer completely
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Soak it in warm water with vinegar
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Scrub with an old toothbrush
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Rinse and dry before reinserting
This alone can eliminate lingering odors.
Step 4: Scrub the Rubber Door Seal (Front Loaders)
The rubber gasket traps moisture, hair, and detergent sludge.
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Pull back the seal gently
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Wipe with a cloth soaked in vinegar
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Scrub crevices where mold forms
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Dry completely
This step is essential for preventing black mold growth.
Step 5: Run a Hot Cycle with Vinegar
This is the foundation of a professional-grade clean.
Instructions:
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Add 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum
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Run the hottest, longest cycle
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Do not add detergent
Vinegar breaks down mineral deposits, bacteria, and soap scum.
Step 6: Follow with a Baking Soda Cycle
After the vinegar cycle finishes:
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Sprinkle ½ cup baking soda into the drum
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Run another hot cycle
This neutralizes odors and loosens stubborn residue vinegar leaves behind.
Step 7: Clean the Filter (Often Forgotten)
Most washing machines have a drain filter that traps lint, coins, and debris.
How to clean it:
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Locate the filter (usually bottom front)
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Place a towel underneath
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Unscrew slowly and drain water
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Remove debris and rinse
A clogged filter reduces efficiency and causes drainage problems.
Step 8: Wipe Down the Drum Interior
Even after cycles, residue can remain.
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Use a microfiber cloth
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Wipe the drum walls, door glass, and edges
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Pay attention to seams and corners
This ensures no loosened grime remains behind.
Step 9: Clean the Exterior Panels
A professional clean includes the outside too.
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Use mild soap and warm water
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Wipe control panels gently
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Dry immediately to avoid streaks
Avoid harsh cleaners that can damage buttons or finishes.
Step 10: Check and Rinse Water Hoses
Sediment can build up inside inlet hoses.
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Turn off water supply
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Detach hoses carefully
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Rinse out debris if visible
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Reattach securely
This improves water flow and protects internal components.
Step 11: Leave the Door Open to Air Dry
Once cleaning is complete:
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Leave the door open for several hours
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Allow moisture to evaporate fully
This simple habit prevents mold and keeps your washer smelling fresh.
Quick Maintenance Tips (Between Deep Cleans)
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Leave the door open after every wash
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Use the correct amount of detergent
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Avoid excessive fabric softener
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Run a vinegar cycle once a month
Final Thoughts
Giving your washing machine a professional-grade clean doesn’t require special tools—just consistency and the right steps. By following these 11 steps, you’ll enjoy:
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Fresher-smelling laundry
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Better washing performance
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Longer machine lifespan
Clean machine, cleaner clothes, and fewer repairs—it’s a win all around.