Can I run an empty washing machine to clean it?

Author: Julianne Goldner  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Running an empty wash cycle can be a good method for maintaining your washing machine, but timing is key! Consider initiating this practice for routine maintenance, particularly if you notice lingering odours or a need for a fresh start after washing heavily soiled loads.

What is the best thing to run through a washing machine to clean it?

Cleaning a washing machine can be done in a few simple steps. First, add one cup of white vinegar to the machine. Run the washer on the hottest cycle. Next, add one cup of baking soda to the machine. Run the washer on the hottest cycle again. Finally, wipe down the inside of the machine with a damp cloth.

Should I run my washing machine empty?

Yes, running your washing machine on empty occasionally is a good idea. This practice helps clean out detergent residues, mold, mildew, and mineral buildup inside the machine. Use hot water and add a cup of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner during the cycle.

Is it okay to run a washing machine without water?

No, you cannot use a washing machine without running water. Washing machines require water to clean clothes effectively. If there's no running water, the machine won't be able to fill the drum, and you won't be able to start a wash cycle.

How to deep clean your washing machine?

  • Empty the washer and remove any lint or debris.
  • Run a hot water cycle with vinegar or a commercial washer cleaner.
  • Scrub the drum and door seal with a mixture of vinegar and water.
  • Wipe down the exterior and detergent compartments.
  • Leave the door open to air dry.

Should You Run a New Washing Machine Empty First?

What is the best thing for cleaning out washing machine?

Simply add a cup of white vinegar to an empty cycle and run your machine on the hottest setting. This will help to kill any bacteria that may have accumulated in the appliance.

How do I clean my deeply smelly washing machine?

Common causes of a smelly washing machine include a buildup of bacteria, mold or mildew, and even detergent residue. To clean it, run a hot wash cycle with a mixture of baking soda and white vinegar. Then, scrub any residue and run another hot rinse to flush out all the cleaning agents.

What happens if you run the washing machine with nothing in it?

Running your washing machine empty can be particularly beneficial under certain conditions. For instance, if you're transitioning from washing heavy fabrics, like towels, to lighter items, an empty cycle can help prepare the machine and eliminate any residue.

Can I clean my washing machine with just water?

Run second cycle with water only.

Allow the washing machine to run through a complete wash and rinse cycle. Once the first cycle has finished, run an additional cycle using just water. This will thoroughly rinse away any remaining residue.

How often should you empty washing machine water?

A maintenance wash gets rid of any bacteria, stains, sludge and mould that might have built up inside the washing machine. Plus, it clears out any old water that might be left in the drum. How often do you need to do a maintenance wash? We recommend doing it once a month.

Can I run an empty washer to clean it?

Washing machines should be rinsed once a week by going through a “clean cycle” where the washing machine is completely empty and does not have clothes or detergent. It is recommended that every washing machine should be deep-cleaned at least once a month.

What is the lifespan of a washing machine?

The average lifespan of a washing machine varies depending on the manufacturer, model, and usage, typically ranging from 7 and 13 years. Proper maintenance and cleaning can extend its longevity and improve its efficiency.

How do you clean an empty washing machine?

Empty the Drum: Ensure your washing machine is completely empty. Add Cleaning Ingredients: Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the drum and add ½ cup of baking soda. Run the Cycle: Select a hot water setting and start the machine, allowing it to fill and agitate for a few minutes before pausing it to soak.

How to run a clean cycle on a washing machine?

Run at the hottest temperature or use the “clean tub” setting on the washer. At the end of the cycle, add vinegar to the liquid dispenser tray or washer tub. Use 2 cups for a front-loading machine or 1 quart for a top-loading machine. Run another hot water wash cycle.

Does vinegar damage washing machines?

It is not recommended to use vinegar in your washing machine. Because of its acidic nature, vinegar can corrode some parts of your washing machine over time, especially rubber elements.

Do washing machine cleaning tablets really work?

Yes! Cleaner tablets are specifically formulated to target and eliminate these odors by breaking down organic residues and disinfecting the interior surfaces of your machine. You can expect fresher, cleaner-smelling laundry after using these tablets.

What do you run through a washing machine to clean it?

Start a hot wash cycle and allow the drum to fill completely with water. Once full, add a quart of chlorine bleach to the machine and allow the cycle to complete. Run a second cycle through the machine, adding a quart of distilled white vinegar to the drum after it's filled with hot water.

What happens if I pour water in my washing machine?

A: you can. The machine will start as soon as enough water is in the tub. A good idea is to pour the water in an hour or so before washing. That way, you can let the clothes soak in soapy water, and they'll be easier to clean.

How to sanitize a washing machine?

Mix 1/4 cup of bleach with 1 quart of water. Pour the bleach solution into the empty tub and run a complete cycle on hot water. After the cycle is complete, wipe down the interior with a damp cloth and leave the lid open to air dry. To deep clean, remove the agitator cap and wash it in warm, soapy water.

Should you spin an empty washing machine?

You need to ensure that your drum is empty with no clothing in at all. It will then spin at a fast rate at a very high temperature of 90°C. This will remove any residue from the drum including softener and detergent that has built up inside.

What usually fails on a washing machine?

A broken motor coupler, failed lid switch or bad timer could also prevent this type of washer from spinning. On top-load, vertical modular washers (washers whose lid is always locked during the entire wash cycle), a failed shifter assembly or worn drive belt can prevent the washer from spinning the wash load.

Is bleach or vinegar better to clean a washing machine?

“For removing odors, I would say vinegar.” Some people, however, prefer white vinegar because it's not as harsh as bleach. Unless, of course, your washing machine has been completely neglected, and is now a breeding ground for bacteria and germs, and you want a power cleaner.

How to clean the inside of a washing machine?

Use a combination of white vinegar and baking soda to naturally clean your washing machine; pour half a cup of baking soda into the drum followed by two cups of vinegar in the detergent dispenser, then run a hot wash cycle. For stubborn grime and odors, consider commercial washing machine cleaners.

How do I get rid of the stale water smell in my washing machine?

How to get rid of that stagnant smell from your washing machine
  1. Run a service wash. A service wash means spinning your washing machine at a high temperature without any clothes. ...
  2. Clean the seal. ...
  3. Wash out your drawers and lint filter. ...
  4. Leave your washing machine door open. ...
  5. Check your standpipe.

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