Washing machines clean our clothes every day, but they need cleaning too. Over time, detergent residue, hard water deposits, and moisture build up inside the drum and rubber seal — leading to bad odor, mold, and even reduced washing performance.
Here's how you can clean your washing machine at home in under 30 minutes.
Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Matters
A clean machine washes clothes better, lasts longer, and doesn't leave a musty smell on your laundry. Front-load machines especially trap moisture in the rubber door seal, making them prone to mold if not cleaned regularly.
Things You'll Need
- White vinegar (2 cups)
- Baking soda (1/4 cup)
- A soft cloth or old toothbrush
- Warm water
Step 1: Clean the Detergent Drawer
Pull out the detergent and fabric softener drawer. Soak it in warm water for 10 minutes, then scrub off any buildup with an old toothbrush. Dry it completely before placing it back.
Step 2: Wipe the Rubber Door Seal
This is where most mold and grime hide, especially in front-load machines. Pull back the rubber gasket gently and wipe inside it with a cloth dipped in a vinegar-water mixture. Make sure to dry it after, since trapped moisture is what causes mold in the first place.
Step 3: Run a Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar
Add 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum (empty, no clothes) and run the machine on its hottest, longest cycle. This dissolves detergent buildup and removes odor from inside the drum and pipes.
Step 4: Run a Second Cycle with Baking Soda
Once the vinegar cycle finishes, add 1/4 cup of baking soda directly into the drum and run another hot cycle. This helps remove any leftover smell and gives the drum a final clean.
Step 5: Wipe Down the Exterior
Finish by wiping the control panel, the door, and the area around the drum opening with a damp cloth.
How Often Should You Clean It?
For regular use, clean your washing machine once a month. If you live in a hard water area, doing it every 2-3 weeks helps prevent mineral buildup.
When to Call a Technician
If you're noticing persistent bad odor even after cleaning, unusual noises, or the machine not draining properly, that could be a sign of a deeper issue like a clogged drain pump or filter — not something a vinegar wash can fix.
Servicefry's verified technicians can inspect and fix these issues at your doorstep, with same-day service available in Nashik.