Our washing machines work hard to keep our laundry smelling fresh and stain-free. So, it might feel ironic to have to clean an appliance used to clean other items, but it’s still important to do so. Over time, our washing machines can accumulate debris and soap buildup, leading to a smelly machine. Thankfully, deep-cleaning a washing machine is straightforward and can be done with store-bought products or DIY formulas.
Follow our deep-cleaning guide to stop the stink in your washing machine.
Why your washing machine stinks
With constant use, our washing machines can accumulate a buildup of debris and soap scum – especially in crevices and drawers. This buildup of lint, grime, detergent and fabric softener, alongside the leftover moisture and heat from washing cycles, creates the perfect environment for mould and mildew to grow and proliferate. Other causes that exacerbate this include using too much detergent or constantly washing with low-temperature washes.
It’s therefore crucial to keep your washing machine clean and odour free. If you don’t, the mould and mildew growth can spread to your clothes, where mould and mildew affects your body, face, hair and even respiratory system (in worse case scenarios).
Our step-by-step deep-cleaning guide
Maintaining a clean washing machine is straightforward. It just comes down to routine cleaning: we suggest deep-cleaning your washing machine at least once a week (if you use it regulalry), or bi-weekly (if you use it often).
What you’ll need:
- Distilled white vinegar
- Bicrabonate of soda
- Mild detergent or store-bought washing machine cleaning tabs
- Toothbrush
- Hard bristled brush
- Soft sponge
- Micro-fibre cloth
- Spray bottle
- Container (to catch excess water)
Front-load washers
The most common culprit for odour is most probably coming from the rubber seal around the door, as water and debris tends to collect here, becoming a breeding ground for bacteria.
- Locate the drain pump filter. Gently remove the drain hose and pour the excess water into the container. Shake it to rid of any debris build-up. Rinse with warm, soapy water and set aside. Then, remove the filter and gently clean with vinegar and scrub with a toothbrush to remove lint, threads and debris.
- Reassemble the hose and filter securely to prevent any leaks.
- Next, drain and clean the water inlet filter. Disconnect the water supply hose and clean the filter using a hard bristled brush to prevent clogs caused by hard water deposits.
- Remove the detergent drawer. Place in a container and liberally spray vinegar over it. Sprinkle over bicarb and let it soak while you clean the rest of the machine.
- Spray the drum, door and rubber seals with vinegar. Use a soft sponge to scrub these areas, especially the rubber door seals. Using a container of warm, soapy water, and a micro fibre cloth, wipe these areas clean. If the rubber door seals have a lot of buildup or stubborn stains, spray again with vinegar and sprinkle on some bicarb. Scrub with the toothbrush and wipe clean with the cloth.
- Scrub the detergent drawer and rinse with hot water before returning it.
- Run a hot wash cycle with white vinegar or store-bought washing machine cleaner tabs.
- Wipe down the exterior with the cloth and warm, sopay water.
- You can run a rinse cycle with bicarb as a final clean.
- Leave to dry out completly with the door wide open.
Top-load washers
- Remove any debris and buildup from any filters or drains.
- Spray vinegar on the interior, focusing on crevices and seals. Use a toothbrush or soft sponge to scrub the interior. Use a mild-detergent or bicarb for stubborn areas. Wipe clean with a micro-fibre cloth.
- If you can, detach the impeller or agitator and soak in hot water, vinegar and bicarb. Rinse and place it back in the machine.
- Run a hot wash cycle with store-bought washing machine cleaner, or a mix of vinegar and mild detergent.
- Air dry with the lid fully open.
Maintenance tips
Make deep-cleaning routines simpler by maintaining a fresh-smelling washing machine:
- Leave the door open to fully air dry between wash cycles
- Wipe down seals, drawers, and the drum regularly
- Use the right amount of detergent for the load
- Run a hot cleaning cycle at least once a week (for regular use) or a month
- Avoid leaving damp items inside the drum
A clean washing machine makes for fresher clothes and keeps your appliance running for longer, without complications. Incorporating a cleaning routine for your washing machine doesn’t need to be intense or difficult to follow: a little vinegar, washing machine cleaner, and some elbow grease is all you need!
