How to Care for Your Top-Load Washing Machine

If your laundry is looking lackluster or your laundry room has an unpleasant odor, it's time to give both your clothes and your washing machine some attention. You might assume that the soap and water used in each cycle are enough to clean the machine, but residue can build up, trapping dirt and bacteria. Luckily, with a few common household items, cleaning your washing machine is a breeze.

Things to Keep in Mind Before You Begin

Your top-load washing machine may feature an agitator located either in the center or at the bottom. To ensure your washer is thoroughly cleaned, be sure to wipe down the agitator before and after running a cleaning cycle. If your machine doesn't have an agitator, you can skip this step.

Some newer washers come with an indicator light that signals when it's time to clean the machine. In addition, certain models offer a self-cleaning function, which uses ultra-hot water instead of traditional chemical or natural cleaners. Always consult the manufacturer's instructions before beginning a cleaning cycle to avoid unintentionally damaging the machine or voiding the warranty.

How Often Should You Clean a Top-Load Washer?

For top-load washers with a center agitator post, aim to clean the machine at least twice a year. High-efficiency models with a bottom agitator use less water and should be cleaned every three months. If your washer has automatic dispensers that you use with every load, clean them monthly to avoid clogs.

In some situations, more frequent cleaning is required. If you live in an area with hard water, minerals in the water can clog the hoses and leave a white residue in the drum, so clean the washer every three months. If you reside in a hot, humid environment where mold is a concern, or if your laundry frequently includes heavily soiled loads with grease or dirt, it's best to clean your washer monthly.

What You'll Need to Clean Your Washing Machine

Tools and Equipment

Materials Required

Steps to Follow

How to Clean a Top-Load Washing Machine

Select the Cycle and Water Temperature

Ensure that the washer and all dispensers are completely empty. Choose the longest wash cycle, set the load size to the largest option, and select the hottest water setting. Let the washer fill with hot water, but pause the machine before the agitation phase starts.

Add the Cleaning Solution

You have several cleaning agents available to help eliminate residue and bacteria from your washer.

• Chlorine bleach: Use 4 cups of bleach. Pour the bleach into the bleach and detergent dispensers, then add the remaining bleach directly into the washer drum.
• Hydrogen peroxide: Use 6 cups of hydrogen peroxide as it is a gentler alternative to bleach. Fill the dispensers, and add the remainder to the washer drum.
• Distilled white vinegar: Use 4 cups of vinegar and follow the same process. Note: Vinegar effectively breaks down residue but doesn't kill mold or bacteria as efficiently as bleach.
• Commercial washer cleaner: Follow the instructions provided on the product's label.

Start the Wash Cycle

Once the cleaner is added, run the full wash cycle.

Clean the Dispensers

If the bleach and detergent dispensers are detachable, fill a sink or dishpan with enough hot water to submerge the dispensers. Let them soak for about 15 minutes, then scrub away any trapped residue using an old toothbrush before placing them back in the washer.

If the dispensers are non-removable, heat 1 cup of white vinegar in the microwave. Pour the warmed vinegar into the dispensers and allow it to sit for 15 minutes to loosen the residue. Afterward, use an old toothbrush to clean the dispensers.

Clean the Lint Filter

The lint filter in your washer collects lint and can become clogged with residue, leading to odors and the redeposition of lint on clothes. In top-load washers with a center agitator, the lint filter is typically located inside the agitator. Newer machines with a bottom agitator may have a lint filter, but not all do. Some rely on a water pump filter, while others have a mesh filter near the top rim of the drum. Refer to your user manual or the manufacturer's website to locate the filter in your model.

Instructions for cleaning a detachable agitator filter:

• Take out the filter and use a paper towel to wipe off any visible lint.
• Fill a sink or dishpan with enough hot water to fully submerge the filter, then add 1 cup of vinegar.
• Allow the filter to soak for 15 minutes, then scrub with an old toothbrush to remove any lingering lint and residue.
• Dip a scrub brush into the soaking solution and clean the inside of the center agitator.
• Place the filter back in its original position.

Instructions for cleaning a fixed mesh or water pump filter:

• Locate the filter in your washer.
• Use a damp microfiber cloth or paper towel to wipe away any trapped lint.
• Dip a soft-bristled brush into warmed vinegar and gently scrub the mesh filter.

Complete the Final Cycle

Once everything is clean, run a final full wash cycle with hot water, leaving out the detergent or cleaner to thoroughly flush the washer.

Wipe Down the Exterior of the Washer

Create a solution of all-purpose cleaner and warm water. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the outside of the washer, removing dust and any laundry product drips. Don't forget to clean around the lid gaskets and use an old toothbrush to get into tight corners and edges.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Top-Load Washer

Above all, avoid using excessive laundry detergent. Stick to the recommended amount per load to prevent unwanted build-up. Additionally, keep these tips in mind to extend the cleanliness of your machine:

• Keep the lid open until the washer drum has fully dried to help prevent mold growth.
• Regularly clean the dispensers to avoid clogs that can hinder the washer's performance and create unpleasant odors.
• Instead of placing your laundry products on top of the washer, assign a shelf for their storage to avoid accidental spills that could damage your machine.