The One Laundry Hack Everyone Forgets: Cleaning the Washer

When was the last time the washing machine got cleaned? Most of us assume that because the washer is full of soap and water all the time, it must clean itself. But the truth is, that trusty machine that makes your clothes fresh can get pretty gross behind the scenes.

Think about it: detergent, fabric softener, dirt, lint, hard water, and even little bits of grime from your clothes all build up inside the drum, hoses, and gaskets. Add moisture to the mix and you’ve got the perfect recipe for odors, mold, and not-so-fresh laundry.

The good news? Giving your washer a little TLC is super easy and makes a big difference. And the bonus? Maintaining the washing machine = extending the life of one of the most important appliances in the home.

Why Bother Cleaning It?

• Bye-bye funky smells. No more pulling “clean” clothes out of the washer only to wrinkle your nose.
• Your clothes actually get cleaner. Less buildup inside means less gunk ending up back on your laundry.
• Your washer lasts longer. A clean machine doesn’t have to work as hard, which saves you money on repairs (and avoids that dreaded “uh-oh, the washer’s broken” moment).
• Peace of mind. Knowing your laundry really is fresh and clean? Priceless.

How to Clean Your Washer (The Easy Way)

Front-Load Washers:

Wipe the gasket. That rubber ring around the door is a mold magnet. Mix equal parts vinegar and water, dip in a cloth, and wipe it all down. (A toothbrush works wonders for the nooks and crannies.)

Run a vinegar cycle. Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the detergent tray and run a hot wash with no clothes. This breaks down residue and kills bacteria.

Run a baking soda cycle. Sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda straight into the drum and run another hot cycle. Instant deodorizer.

Finish with a wipe. Give the detergent drawer, door, and outside a good wipe, then leave the door open to air dry.

Top-Load Washers:

Soak with vinegar. Fill the tub with hot water, add 4 cups of vinegar, and let it agitate for a minute. Pause the cycle for an hour, then finish it.

Follow with baking soda. Add 1 cup of baking soda, run another hot cycle, and let it do its thing.

Scrub the drum. Grab a cloth and wipe down the inside (especially around the agitator, if yours has one).

Clean the dispensers. Don’t forget to wipe those detergent and fabric softener slots.

Frequency?

• Every 1–3 months, depending on how much laundry you do.
• Pro tip: After every load, leave the washer door open so it can air out. That one tiny habit helps a lot with preventing musty smells.