Automatic washing machines have made our lives significantly easier by taking care of the laundry while we focus on other tasks. However, just like any other appliance, they need regular maintenance to work efficiently and last longer. Over time, washing machines accumulate dirt, detergent residue, limescale, and even mold, which can lead to unpleasant odors and reduced performance.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about how to clean your automatic washing machine at home — easily, naturally, and effectively.
Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine is Important
You may think your washing machine gets cleaned every time you wash your clothes. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Residues from fabric softeners, detergents, and dirty water can build up inside the machine, especially in hard-to-reach areas like the drum, filter, and detergent drawer.
Consequences of Not Cleaning Your Machine:
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Foul odors
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Mold and mildew buildup
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Ineffective washing
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Skin irritations due to leftover residue on clothes
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Shortened appliance life
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Higher energy consumption
To avoid these issues, make washing machine cleaning part of your monthly routine.
How Often Should You Clean It?
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Light usage (1–2 times a week): Clean every 2–3 months
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Moderate to heavy usage (3+ times a week): Clean monthly
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Visible mold, odor, or hard water areas: Clean every 2 weeks or as needed
Types of Cleaning Required
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Drum cleaning
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Detergent drawer cleaning
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Rubber gasket/seal cleaning
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Filter cleaning
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Exterior cleaning
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Hose maintenance (optional)
Tools & Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these are already in your kitchen!
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White vinegar
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Baking soda
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Lemon juice (optional)
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Microfiber cloth
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Old toothbrush
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Screwdriver (if your filter cover is fixed)
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Spray bottle (optional)
Step-by-Step: Cleaning Your Automatic Washing Machine at Home
✅ Step 1: Clean the Detergent Drawer
Why: Over time, detergent and softener residues form a sticky buildup in the drawer.
How:
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Remove the drawer (usually it slides out; check your manual if unsure).
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Soak it in warm water mixed with a little vinegar.
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Use an old toothbrush to scrub all corners.
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Rinse thoroughly and let it dry.
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Wipe the compartment inside the machine where the drawer goes.
✅ Step 2: Clean the Drum (Inner Tub)
Why: Dirt, mold, and bacteria build up on the inside drum walls and behind them.
Method 1: With White Vinegar & Baking Soda
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Pour 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum.
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Add ½ cup of baking soda.
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Run a hot water cycle or the self-clean cycle if your washer has one.
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Once done, open the door and let it air dry.
Method 2: With Lemon Juice (Alternative)
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Use 1 cup lemon juice + 1 cup baking soda if you prefer a citrus scent.
Tip: Avoid bleach if you’ve used vinegar recently — the two can create harmful fumes.
✅ Step 3: Clean the Rubber Gasket (Door Seal)
Why: The rubber ring around the door traps moisture, dirt, lint, and even forgotten socks.
How:
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Gently pull the rubber seal to expose hidden areas.
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Use a 1:1 mix of vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
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Spray the area and scrub with a toothbrush or microfiber cloth.
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Wipe dry with a clean towel.
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Leave the door open to air-dry fully.
Check carefully — mold often hides behind the folds!
✅ Step 4: Clean the Filter
Why: The filter collects lint, coins, hair, and debris, which can clog the drain or affect performance.
How:
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Locate the filter (usually at the bottom front of the washer, behind a small panel).
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Place a towel and a shallow tray or bowl to catch water.
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Unscrew or pull out the filter.
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Remove any debris, rinse it under running water.
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Wipe around the filter housing with a cloth.
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Reinsert and close the panel.
Warning: Be prepared for some dirty water!
✅ Step 5: Clean the Exterior
How:
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Wipe down the machine’s exterior with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
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Clean the buttons, door, and top to remove dust and spills.
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Polish with a dry microfiber cloth.
Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish.
✅ Step 6: Optional – Clean the Hoses
Why: Mineral buildup in the hoses can reduce water flow.
What You Can Do:
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Turn off the water supply and disconnect the hoses.
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Soak them in a vinegar solution if you notice scale buildup.
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Replace them every 3–5 years for best performance.
Natural vs. Store-Bought Cleaners
You can find specialized washing machine cleaning tablets in the market, but for regular home use, natural ingredients like vinegar and baking soda work just as well, are more affordable, and are eco-friendly.
Tips to Keep Your Washing Machine Cleaner for Longer
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Leave the door open after each wash to prevent mold.
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Use the right amount of detergent. Too much causes residue buildup.
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Wipe the gasket regularly — don’t wait for mold to appear.
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Avoid fabric softeners if not needed — they cause waxy build-up.
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Use high-efficiency (HE) detergent in HE washers.
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Run a hot empty wash with vinegar monthly to maintain freshness.
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Remove wet clothes promptly after the cycle ends.
FAQs: Washing Machine Cleaning
❓Can I use bleach instead of vinegar?
Yes, but never mix bleach and vinegar together. Use one or the other, and rinse the machine between uses. Vinegar is safer and more eco-friendly.
❓Is it necessary to clean a top-load washing machine the same way?
Yes, but the gasket part doesn’t apply. Focus more on the drum, detergent tray, and filter.
❓How do I know if my washer is dirty?
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Bad smell
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Clothes coming out less fresh
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Visible mold or residue
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Water not draining properly
Final Thoughts
Your washing machine does the dirty work — it deserves a little attention in return! Cleaning it regularly not only keeps your clothes smelling fresh but also extends the life of the machine and ensures your laundry comes out as clean as possible.
You don’t need expensive products or tools. Just a bit of time and a few common household items are all you need to give your machine the TLC it deserves.
Start today — your washer (and your clothes) will thank you! 🧼👕🌀
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