A dirty washer can ruin your laundry. Swipe through for quick, simple steps to deep-clean your machine in just half an hour.
Time for a Deep Clean
Think your washing machine is clean just because it washes clothes? Think again. Soap scum, mold, and gunk build up over time, making your laundry smell worse, not better.
But don’t worry - this 30-minute deep clean is fast, easy, and totally worth it. Swipe through for some genius tricks (including one you’ve probably never heard of).
Prep Like a Pro
Before diving in, set yourself up for success. Grab white vinegar, baking soda, a microfiber cloth, an old toothbrush, and - here’s the game changer - mouthwash.
Yes, it kills bacteria in your washer just like in your mouth. Also, remove any laundry because, well, cleaning a washing machine with dirty clothes in it? That’s just wrong.
Tackle That Funky Smell
If your washer smells like a damp basement, bacteria, and detergent buildup are to blame. The fix? Pour two cups of vinegar directly into the drum and run the hottest cycle.
Vinegar breaks down grime while neutralizing odors. Bonus tip: Adding a few drops of lemon juice makes your washer smell extra fresh. Who knew cleaning could be this satisfying?
The Secret Lid Trick
Ever wonder why your washing machine still smells after a deep clean? It’s because moisture gets trapped under the lid or rubber seal.
Take a dry cloth and wipe down every inch, especially the hidden crevices. Pro tip: Leave the door slightly open after every wash to prevent mold from forming in the first place.
Filter Out the Filth
Think of your washing machine’s filter as a lint trap for all the gunk you don’t want in your clothes. If you’ve never cleaned it, brace yourself - it’s probably packed with hair, detergent sludge, and mystery debris.
Locate it near the bottom panel, pull it out, rinse it under hot water, and scrub it with an old toothbrush. And notice the instant improvement.
The Drain Hose Dilemma
Ever wonder why your washer still smells musty even after a deep clean? Your drain hose might be clogged. Detach it carefully (a bucket nearby is a lifesaver), flush it with hot water, and use a flexible brush to clear out any gunk.
A clogged hose slows drainage, leaving behind dirty water - nobody wants that in their fresh laundry.
Dryer Sheets for the Win
Here’s an unexpected trick: used dryer sheets work wonders at grabbing dust and residue inside your washer.
After cleaning, wipe down the drum and rubber seals with a dry sheet - it picks up lint, absorbs lingering odors, and leaves a soft, fresh scent behind.
Who said these little sheets were only for the dryer?
Essential Oil Freshness
Want your washer to smell as clean as it looks? After cleaning, add a few drops of lavender, lemon, or tea tree oil to a damp cloth and wipe down the drum.
Not only do essential oils leave a refreshing scent, but tea tree oil is also naturally antibacterial - helping to keep mold and mildew away.
Don’t Forget the Exterior
A clean washer on the inside is great, but what about the outside? Dust, detergent splatters, and fingerprints make it look grimy.
Mix equal parts vinegar and water, spray the surface, and wipe it down with a microfiber cloth. For extra shine, buff with a dryer sheet - it removes static and dust like magic.
Clean the Power Plug
When was the last time you checked your washer’s power plug and cord? Dust and lint build up around them, which can be a fire hazard.
Unplug the machine, wipe the cord down with a damp microfiber cloth, and check for any fraying. If you spot damage, it’s time to replace it - safety always comes first.
Clean the Water Inlet Filters
If your washing machine fills slowly, clogged water inlet filters might be the issue. Turn off the water supply, detach the hoses, and carefully remove the small mesh filters inside.
Soak them in vinegar for 15 minutes, then scrub them with a toothbrush to clear out mineral buildup. Once clean, reattach them, and your washer will fill faster.
Freshen Up the Buttons
Ever noticed how grimy your washer’s buttons and knobs get? With damp hands touching them daily, they collect dirt fast. Mix equal parts vinegar and water, dampen a cotton swab, and clean around each button.
For deep crevices, a toothpick wrapped in a cloth works wonders. It’s a small detail, but it makes your washer look brand new.
Base and Floor Check
The space under and around your washer is probably hiding years’ worth of dust, lint, and maybe even lost socks. Pull the machine slightly forward (if safe), sweep or vacuum underneath, and wipe down the base with a disinfecting cloth.
Keeping this area clean prevents dust from getting into your washer’s vents and affecting efficiency.
Deep-Clean the Rubber Feet
Your washer’s rubber feet keep it stable, but they also collect dirt and moisture, which can lead to mildew. Use a damp cloth with baking soda to wipe them down.
For extra grip, sprinkle a little cornstarch under each foot. This prevents vibrations and keeps your machine steady - no more loud, thumping cycles.
The Forgotten Detergent Drawer
That little drawer where you pour detergent? It’s probably a horror show of mildew and gunk. Pop it out, soak it in warm soapy water, and scrub it with a toothbrush.
For an extra deep clean, spray it with a mix of vinegar and water, then wipe dry. Trust me - your clothes will thank you.
For more ways to tackle hidden mold and mildew, check out my hacks to prevent mold and mildew in humid spaces.
Don’t Forget the Back Panel
Out of sight, out of mind - until dust buildup affects performance. The back panel of your washing machine collects dirt, cobwebs, and lint over time.
Unplug the machine, pull it forward, and wipe it down with a damp cloth. While you’re there, check the hoses for leaks or cracks.
A little maintenance goes a long way - and your other appliances deserve the same treatment. Check out deep clean your appliances (new year, new tips) for more ways to keep everything running like new.
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