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How do you clean a washer ? It works hard. It removes stains, freshens fabrics and handles load after load without complaint. Yet over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, limescale and trapped moisture build up inside the drum, detergent dispenser and rubber seals. The result? A smelly washer, dull clothes and even black mould around the door.
Regular washing machine maintenance keeps odours away, protects internal components and ensures every cleaning cycle performs properly. Let us walk you through a professional method to clean your washer thoroughly and safely.
Clean my washing machine
If you are wondering how to clean washing machine parts properly, start with a structured deep clean. Do not rush it. A washer needs attention in several key areas:
- Drum
- Detergent dispenser
- Rubber seal
- Filter
- Exterior surfaces
Run the washing machine empty. Use hot water. This helps dissolve detergent build-up and loosen grime inside the drum.
For routine care, schedule a washing machine clean cycle once a month. It prevents smells and extends appliance life.
Clean a washing machine with vinegar
White vinegar is effective for dissolving limescale and deodorising the drum.
- Pour 500 ml of white vinegar directly into the drum.
- Run the hottest cleaning cycle available.
- Wipe the rubber seal and door afterwards.
Vinegar helps neutralise odours, especially if you are dealing with a smelly washer. However, do not overuse it. Excess acidity can weaken rubber components over time.
If you would like a full breakdown of how to clean washing machine with vinegar and baking soda , use vinegar in the drum and baking soda in the detergent dispenser — never mix them before adding.
Bleach to clean washing machine
Bleach is useful when you need to sanitise washing machine interiors, particularly if mould is visible.
Add 250 ml of liquid bleach into the detergent dispenser. Run a hot washing machine clean cycle. Once complete, run a second empty rinse to remove residue.
| Product | Best For | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| White vinegar | Limescale & odours | Monthly |
| Baking soda | Mild deodorising | Monthly |
| Bleach | Mould & sanitising | Every 2–3 months |
Bleach is powerful. Use gloves and ventilate the room.
Deep clean washing machine
A deep clean washing machine routine should include the filter and detergent drawer.
Remove the detergent dispenser. Soak it in hot water with washing-up liquid. Scrub away detergent and fabric softener residue.
Next, check the filter (usually behind a lower front panel). Drain excess water and remove trapped debris.
If you struggle with cleaning washing machine seal , wipe the rubber seal with diluted bleach or vinegar. Pull back the folds. Black mould hides there.
Clean washing machine with baking soda
Baking soda helps balance odours and freshen the drum.
Add 250 g of baking soda directly into the drum. Run a hot cleaning cycle. This method is gentle and ideal between stronger treatments like bleach.
It is particularly useful if you notice mild smells but no visible mould.
Sanitize washing machine
To properly sanitise washing machine components:
- Use a high-temperature cycle (60–90°C).
- Add bleach if mould is present.
- Leave the door open afterwards to dry.
Moisture is the main cause of a smelly washer. Drying prevents bacterial growth.
Washing machine maintenance
Prevention is easier than cure. Follow these habits:
- Leave the door open after every wash.
- Wipe the rubber seal weekly.
- Clean the detergent dispenser monthly.
- Run a washing machine clean cycle regularly.
If you need detailed steps on how to use a washing machine efficiently to reduce residue build-up, correct dosing of detergent makes a significant difference.
Washing machine clean cycle
Most modern machines have a dedicated cleaning cycle. It runs at high temperature with extended rinsing.
Use it with:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Specialist washing machine cleaner
Avoid running repeated short cold washes only. Low temperatures encourage residue and odours.
If your washer already smells, consult our advice on clean a smelly washer to eliminate persistent odours at the source.
Clean washing machine naturally
If you prefer natural methods, alternate between vinegar and baking soda monthly. Avoid mixing them simultaneously, as they neutralise each other.
For drawer build-up, especially stubborn detergent deposits, refer to our guide on how to clean washing machine drawer for step-by-step removal.
Natural cleaning works best as preventative washing machine maintenance rather than heavy mould removal.
FAQ
How do you clean a washing machine?
Run an empty hot cleaning cycle using white vinegar or baking soda. Wipe the rubber seal, clean the detergent dispenser and empty the filter. Repeat monthly to prevent residue and odours.
How do you deep clean a washing machine?
Remove and scrub the detergent dispenser, clean the filter, wipe the rubber seal thoroughly and run a hot cycle with bleach or vinegar. Finish with an extra rinse.
How do you remove black mould from a washing machine rubber seal?
Apply diluted bleach to the affected area. Leave for 10–15 minutes. Scrub gently with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly. Dry the seal afterwards to prevent recurrence.
What can I use to clean my washing machine?
White vinegar for limescale, baking soda for deodorising and bleach for sanitising. Always run a hot washing machine clean cycle for best results.
How often should you clean your washing machine?
Perform basic washing machine maintenance weekly and run a deep clean washing machine cycle once a month. Use bleach every 2–3 months if needed.
A washer that smells fresh cleans clothes better. Stay consistent, follow a structured cleaning cycle and your washing machine will reward you with spotless results — every single load.
