Running the Clean Washer cycle on a Whirlpool machine is quick and easy. Simply remove all clothing, drop an affresh® Washer Cleaner tablet into the empty drum, select the Clean Washer (or Clean Washer with affresh) cycle on your dial/menu, and press start.
To self-clean a Whirlpool washing machine, start by emptying the tub. Place one affresh® Washing Machine Cleaner tablet directly into the drum (not the dispenser). Select the dedicated Clean Washer cycle (or a normal cycle with a hot water setting) and let it run completely.
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.
Running an empty washing machine on a hot cycle with a cleaning agent is the best way to sanitize the drum, clear detergent buildup, and eliminate musty odors. It is recommended to clean your washing machine every 1 to 6 months depending on how frequently you use it.
7 signs your washing machine needs a clean
To run a clean cycle on a washing machine, ensure the drum is completely empty and add a washing machine cleaner (like a Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner tablet or 2 cups of white vinegar). Set the machine to its hottest water setting or the dedicated "Clean Washer/Tub Clean" cycle, and press start.
This cycle uses more water, in addition to bleach or a washing machine cleaner, to control accumulation of soils and detergent build-up in your Washer. It is easy to use, and should be run at least once a month or about every 40 wash cycles.
To use an oven's self-clean feature safely, remove all oven racks and large food debris first. Turn on your exhaust fan, open windows, and select the "Self Clean" or "Clean" cycle on your control panel. The door will lock and heat up to 900°F, turning residue to ash.
To clean your Whirlpool washer, run a "Clean Washer" cycle with an affresh® Washing Machine Cleaner tablet, or liquid chlorine bleach if preferred. Follow up by wiping down the detergent dispenser and the rubber door gasket (on front loaders) to remove trapped mold and residue.
To self-clean a Whirlpool washing machine, start by emptying the tub. Place one affresh® Washing Machine Cleaner tablet directly into the drum (not the dispenser). Select the dedicated Clean Washer cycle (or a normal cycle with a hot water setting) and let it run completely.
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.
Vinegar should not be placed directly in the washing machine. However, it can be beneficial to use it to treat stains and odors prior to washing. Just make sure you thoroughly rinse the items before placing them in the washing machine.
Your laundry won't be clean.
Dirty washing machines produce dirty laundry.
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.
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.
Most modern washing machines have a dedicated "Self Clean" (or "Clean Washer") cycle designed to remove detergent buildup, mold, and mildew. If your machine doesn't have this specific setting, you can easily run a manual cleaning cycle.
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
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.
Yes, you can absolutely use vinegar and baking soda to clean your washing machine. This safe, natural method breaks down detergent buildup, removes musty odors, and helps prevent mold.
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.