Effective Methods to Eliminate Germs and Unpleasant Odors from Your Washing Machine

It might seem unnecessary to clean an appliance designed for cleaning, but maintaining your washing machine is crucial. Regular cleaning prevents the accumulation of bacteria, detergent residue, and dirt, which can harm your machine or affect your laundry.

If your washing machine emits a foul odor or your laundry doesn’t smell fresh after washing, it’s a clear sign that your machine needs a thorough cleaning.

Thankfully, cleaning your washing machine doesn’t take all day, and the machine can handle much of the work itself. Learn everything about the importance and process of cleaning your washing machine to prolong its lifespan and keep your clothes as fresh as possible.

Why You Need to Clean Your Washing Machine

Consider this: Your washing machine regularly deals with sweat, dead skin, pet hair, bodily fluids, and other grime. These contaminants may not fully disappear during the rinse cycle, leaving behind bacteria, viruses, and other microbes after every wash.

Detergent residue can also linger, particularly if you use cold water or excessive amounts of detergent. This residue can feed microbes, mold, and mildew, which thrive in the damp environment of your washing machine.

If your clothes smell less than fresh after washing or the draining water has a sulfur-like odor, it’s a clear sign your washing machine needs a deep clean.

How to Clean Your Washing Machine

The upside: Cleaning your washing machine doesn’t require hours of scrubbing. The downside: Some stubborn grime, especially in front-loading machines, might need extra attention to ensure every corner is spotless.

Regardless of your washing machine type, there are a few universal steps to follow for a thorough cleaning.

• Start by emptying the washer. Cleaning agents used can harm any remaining clothes and may react with leftover detergent or fabric softener in the dispensers.
• Clean every component. Don’t overlook the soap dispensers, where detergent and water can pool, leading to mold and mildew. Also, check the lint filter, which can trap debris and become a breeding ground for microbes.
• Stick to one effective cleaner. You can use a specialized washing machine cleaner or household items like distilled white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or chlorine bleach. Never mix cleaning products, as this can cause hazardous chemical reactions that may harm you or damage the machine.
• Don’t forget the exterior. A simple wipe with a damp cloth can remove dust and detergent buildup, keeping your machine looking pristine.

How to Wash a Top-Loading Washing Machine

For a detailed walkthrough, refer to our guide on cleaning a top-loading washing machine. Here’s a brief summary of the steps to effectively clean a top-loading machine:

1. Ensure the detergent dispensers and drum are completely empty.
2. Select the longest and hottest wash cycle available.
3. Allow the drum to fill with hot water, but pause before agitation begins.
4. Add a cleaning agent like distilled white vinegar, bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or a specialized washing machine cleaner.
5. Start the wash cycle.
6. Clean the soap dispensers and lint filter thoroughly.
7. Run an additional long, hot wash cycle without any cleaning products.
8. Wipe down the exterior of the machine to finish.

How to Wash a Front-Loading Washing Machine

Front-loading machines are more susceptible to odors due to their water-efficient design. Using less water can leave behind detergent or fabric softener residue, causing unpleasant smells. For a complete guide on cleaning your front-loading washing machine, check our detailed instructions. Here’s a quick overview:

1. Empty the detergent dispensers and drum completely.
2. Use a microfiber cloth, an old toothbrush, and a solution of 1/4 chlorine bleach mixed with four cups of warm water to scrub the door, rubber gaskets, and drum.
3. Clean the detergent dispensers and their drawer using hot water and a brush or cloth.
4. Run a short prewash cycle to flush the dispenser system.
5. Wipe down the machine’s exterior.
6. Inspect and rinse the water pump filter, typically located in a drawer at the bottom, to remove lint and debris.
7. Run a warm water cycle with 1/2 cup liquid chlorine bleach in the detergent dispenser and a full bleach dispenser.

How Often to Clean Your Washing Machine

If you detect an unpleasant odor in your washing machine, it’s time for a quick clean or even a thorough deep cleaning.

Traditional top-loading machines may only require cleaning every few months, whereas high-efficiency models benefit from a monthly cleaning routine.

Front-loading machines should be cleaned once or twice a month, depending on your laundry frequency and local climate. Hot, humid conditions can accelerate mold, mildew, and bacteria growth, making more frequent cleaning necessary.