Have you ever finished a full load of laundry only to notice your clothes don’t smell or feel as fresh as expected? While heavily soiled clothes can be one reason, another often-overlooked cause is a washing machine that needs cleaning. Many people don’t realize that washers also require regular care to perform their best.
Start With the Drum
A simple way to freshen and clean the inside of your machine is with distilled white vinegar.
Add 1–2 cups of distilled vinegar directly into the drum and run an empty cycle on the hottest water setting. A longer cycle works best because it allows more time for buildup and odors to be reduced.
When that cycle finishes, run another empty hot cycle, this time adding 1 cup of baking soda. Baking soda helps deodorize the machine and remove leftover residue.
Tip: Do not mix vinegar and baking soda in the same cycle. Using them separately allows each to work effectively.
Clean the Small but Important Areas
The drum isn’t the only place where residue collects. Detergent drawers, rubber seals, lids, and corners can also trap moisture and buildup.
You can:
- Wipe these areas with a cloth dipped in vinegar
- Use a mild cleaning solution for stubborn spots
- Gently scrub tight spaces with a soft brush or old toothbrush
- Finish by wiping with a clean, damp cloth
If your washer allows it, remove detergent trays occasionally and rinse them under warm water.
How Often Should You Clean It?
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