For a standard self-clean cycle, the drum should be completely empty. You can run the cycle with just water, but adding a specialized cleaning agent helps target stubborn buildup.
Yes, an empty machine requires an additive for the cleaning cycle. Do not use laundry detergent; instead, add either commercial cleaner tablets (such as Affresh or Tide) or common household items to sanitize and break down soap scum.
White vinegar is an excellent natural cleaner that can help remove odours and clean your washing machine's drum. 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.
Start with an empty tub. For a front-load washer, put 2 tablespoons of borax or oxygen bleach and 2 tablespoons of washing soda in the tub of the washing machine. For a top-loading machine, put 1/2 cup of each of the powders into the wash tub. Run at the hottest temperature or use the “clean tub” setting on the washer.
Deep cleaning your washing machine every month or 30 cycles prevents mold and odor buildup. To do this, soak and wipe down the detergent drawer and rubber seals, run a hot water cycle with two cups of white vinegar, and follow it up with a hot cycle using a half-cup of baking soda.
How to Tell When Washers Need Maintenance
Clean your washing machine by running an empty, hot water cycle with either 2 cups of white vinegar, 1/2 cup of liquid chlorine bleach, or a commercial washing machine cleaner. This breaks down soap scum, removes mold, and eliminates odor-causing bacteria.
No, not all washing machines have user-serviceable filters. While traditional and many front-load washers feature a drain pump filter, many modern high-efficiency (HE) washers feature self-cleaning pumps and rely on the machine to flush out lint automatically.
Remove any garments or objects from the washer and ensure the washer basket is empty. Open the washer lid and pour one cup (or 250 ml) of liquid bleach, vinegar or a washing machine cleaner into the basket. Close the lid and select the Basket Clean cycle. Push the Start button.
To clean your washing machine, run an empty drum cycle using either a dedicated machine-cleaning tablet (e.g., affresh Washer Cleaner or Active Washing Machine Tablets) or liquid chlorine bleach. Use your machine's "Clean Washer", "Tub Clean", or the hottest, longest regular cycle available.
The best overall approach for a deep clean is using a combination of distilled white vinegar and baking soda. Vinegar breaks down soap scum and mineral deposits, while baking soda acts as a mild abrasive to remove grime and neutralize odors. For hands-off maintenance, commercial cleaners are highly effective.
Your laundry won't be clean.
Dirty washing machines produce dirty laundry.
To deep clean a front-load washer, run a hot-water cycle with a specialized washing machine cleaner or two cups of white vinegar. Then, manually detail the rubber door gasket, clean out the dispenser drawer, empty the drain pump filter, and wipe down the drum to eliminate musty odors.
Yes, you can use distilled white vinegar to soften clothes, remove odors, and eliminate detergent buildup. However, because of its acidity, use it sparingly and never put it directly in the main wash or mix it with bleach, as this can corrode rubber seals and create toxic fumes.
How to Clean the Interior of Your Washer
Choosing between a commercial descaling solution and white vinegar depends on your machine, your budget, and how often you maintain it. Commercial solutions are the safest and most effective for preserving expensive appliances, while vinegar is a budget-friendly option for light, routine maintenance.
After using descaling solution, flush your coffee machine by running at least two full water-only cycles. This removes residual acid that can cause sensor errors or premature shutoff. Ensure the water reservoir is filled before each rinse.
For a clean cycle (or "Tub Clean" setting), ensure the drum is completely empty and use one of the following:
7 signs your washing machine needs a clean
If you never clean your washing machine, detergent residue, fabric softener, body oils, and hard-water minerals build up over time. This creates a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, resulting in musty-smelling clothes, skin irritation, clogged filters, and costly mechanical breakdowns.
While laundry experts often debate the "ultimate" rule, the most agreed-upon golden rule of laundry is to never overload your washer or dryer. Cramming machines too full prevents clothes from properly agitating, cleaning, and drying, leaving them with leftover residue, lint, and excess wear.
The answer to when to do laundry to save money
Most people will see that they have a lower tariff overnight, usually between 11 pm and 7 am. This is the best time to do your washing as you'll save money. Saving money on electricity is only part of the equation.