How to Properly Clean a Front Load Washing Machine

Front load washers have revolutionized laundry rooms. They can handle large loads, stack with a dryer, and consume less water compared to most top load washers. However, they come with one drawback: a lingering odor that fills the laundry room and even affects the freshly cleaned clothes.

Unfortunately, the odor may be caused by excess detergent and fabric softener. These extra laundry products can trap dirt and build up inside the washer and behind the rubber door seals, promoting the growth of mold and mildew. Add to that a clogged air vent, and you're dealing with some serious stench.

The good news is that cleaning is easy and only requires a few basic household items.

How Often Should You Clean Your Front Load Washer?

Your washing machine deals with a lot of dirty laundry, so a monthly cleaning will help keep it smelling fresh. If you frequently wash heavily soiled clothes or live in a hot, humid climate, consider cleaning it twice a month—or as soon as you notice an unpleasant smell.

What You Will Need

Tools and Equipment

Materials

Steps

How to Clean Your Front Load Washer

Inspect the Washer Drum

Before beginning the cleaning process, make sure the drum is completely empty. There should be no clothes inside the washer.

Prepare a Cleaning Solution

In a small bucket, combine 4 cups of warm water with a quarter cup of chlorine bleach to create the cleaning solution.

Clean the Door and Rubber Seals

Soak a microfiber cloth in the solution and wring it out until it's not dripping. Carefully wipe down the door, making sure to clean the edges and glass. Gently lift the rubber seals around the door and wipe away any dirt, mold, or residue stuck inside.

If the grime doesn't come off, dip an old toothbrush or a small nylon-bristled brush into the cleaning solution, scrub the area, and then use the microfiber cloth to remove the dirt.

Clean the Washing Drum

If the washing drum feels sticky or appears discolored, use the cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth to scrub it clean.

Clean the Detergent Dispensers

Refer to your machine's manual (or check online) to find instructions on how to remove the detergent dispenser drawer(s) along with the inserts for bleach and fabric softener. Rinse these components with hot tap water to eliminate any residue. For stubborn buildup, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Let the drawers air dry.

Clean the Dispenser Drawer Compartment

Soak a small brush in the cleaning solution and scrub any residue or mold inside the washer's dispenser compartment. Use a flashlight to inspect the area, ensuring it's clean before reinserting the dispensers. Run a quick prewash cycle without detergent to flush out the dispenser system.

Wipe Down the Exterior of the Washer

While the short cycle is running, use a microfiber cloth and all-purpose cleaner to wipe down the exterior of the washer on all sides. Don’t forget to inspect the air vent at the back to ensure it’s free of dust.

Inspect the Water Pump Filter

Most front load washers have a small access door near the bottom that allows you to remove any debris or lint caught in the water pump filter. You might find coins, buttons, or even a sock that could be causing slow draining, odors, or leaving lint on your clothes. Take out the filter and rinse it with hot water, or soak if needed.

Run a Final Cleaning Cycle

After cleaning the key areas, run a final cleaning cycle. Pour 1/2 cup of liquid chlorine bleach into the detergent drawer and fill the bleach dispenser compartment. Run a normal cycle with warm water. Your washer should now be refreshed and spotless.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Front Load Washer

• Use less detergent. Since front load washers use less water, excess detergent can trap dirt and turn into a breeding ground for mold.
• Replace liquid fabric softener with distilled white vinegar to help break down detergent residue and soften clothes. Just add it to the fabric softener compartment.
• Ensure the washer vent is clear of any blockages and free from dust.
• If your laundry room lacks ventilation, consider adding a fan or dehumidifier. After each load, leave the washer door slightly open to allow the interior to dry more quickly.
• Regularly clean the water pump filter to eliminate any smelly, damp lint.
• Run a cleaning cycle with chlorine bleach at least once a month.