So you’ve probably noticed that weird smell coming from your washing machine after a few weeks, right? Yeah, that’s not just in your head. Over time, washing machines can get pretty gross inside—mold, soap scum, hard water deposits, and even old laundry detergent can build up in places you don’t even see. But here’s the good news: you don’t need harsh chemicals to fix it. In fact, you probably already have everything you need in your pantry. This guide will walk you through how to clean a washing machine the easy, natural way using vinegar and baking soda.
Most people don’t think about cleaning their washing machine until something goes wrong—like when clothes come out smelling worse than when they went in. That’s why it’s smart to give your washer a deep clean every month or so. It helps keep everything running smoothly and makes sure your laundry actually smells fresh, not musty. Plus, regular maintenance can help your machine last longer, which is a win for your wallet and the environment.
Whether you’ve got a top-load washer or a high-efficiency front-loader, this guide’s got you covered. We’ll talk about why vinegar and baking soda work so well, when you should clean your machine, and how to make your own DIY cleaning solution that’s both safe and effective. Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents
- Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Matters
- What You’ll Need to Get Started
- How to Clean a Top-Load Washing Machine
- How to Clean a Front-Load Washing Machine
- Using Vinegar and Baking Soda for a Natural Clean
- If Your Washer Has a Clean Cycle
- How Often Should You Clean Your Washer?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Matters
So you’re probably thinking, “Wait, my washing machine cleans my clothes—why would I need to clean the machine itself?” That makes total sense. But here’s the thing: your washer works hard every time you use it. Over time, it collects all sorts of gunk—leftover detergent, fabric softener, hard water minerals, and even bits of dirt and hair from your clothes. This buildup can start to smell pretty bad and might even end up back on your laundry.
And it’s not just about smells. If you don’t clean your washer regularly, mold and mildew can grow inside, especially in the rubber gasket on front-load models. That’s not just icky—it can actually be a health concern for people with allergies or asthma. Cleaning your machine keeps it running well and makes sure your clothes are getting as clean as they should be.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Here’s the cool part: you don’t need to buy any fancy products to clean your washing machine. Most of what you need is probably already in your kitchen. Here’s what to grab:
- White vinegar or cleaning vinegar
- Baking soda
- A microfiber cloth or sponge
- A toothbrush (for scrubbing tight spots)
That’s it! No bleach, no harsh fumes, and definitely no need to call a professional. You can make your own washing machine cleaner with just these two ingredients—and it works like a charm.
How to Clean a Top-Load Washing Machine
Cleaning a top-load washer is pretty straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
- Fill the washer with hot water on the largest load setting.
- Add 2 cups of white vinegar to the water.
- Pause the cycle and let the solution sit for an hour.
- Resume the cycle and let it finish.
- While it’s running, wipe down the inside of the lid and the sides of the drum with a vinegar-soaked cloth.
If there’s any gunk that won’t come off easily, sprinkle some baking soda on a damp cloth and scrub it off. Don’t forget the detergent dispenser—pull it out if it’s removable and give it a good rinse too.
How to Clean a Front-Load Washing Machine
Front-load machines are a bit trickier because of the rubber seal and drain pump. Here’s how to clean them thoroughly:
- Wipe down the rubber gasket with a cloth soaked in vinegar. Be sure to get into all the folds where mold tends to grow.
- Mix a cup of baking soda with a bit of water to make a paste.
- Use a toothbrush to apply the paste to the gasket and scrub it in.
- Run a hot water cycle with 2 cups of vinegar added to the drum.
- Wipe down the outside of the door and the detergent dispenser afterward.
Some front-loaders have a drain pump filter you can clean too—check your owner’s manual for instructions on how to access it. This step helps remove any lingering debris and keeps your machine smelling fresh.
Using Vinegar and Baking Soda for a Natural Clean
So, why does this combo work so well? Vinegar is acidic, which helps break down minerals and soap scum. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that scrubs away buildup without scratching surfaces. Together, they make a powerful, natural cleaning duo.
One thing to keep in mind: don’t mix vinegar and bleach. That combo creates toxic fumes and isn’t safe. But since we’re using natural ingredients, you don’t have to worry about any harmful effects. This method is totally safe for your family and your machine.
You can even make a DIY washing machine cleaner by mixing vinegar and baking soda in a spray bottle. Just be sure to use them separately in the cleaning process—don’t mix them together before applying. Use vinegar first, then sprinkle baking soda on top for extra scrubbing power.
If Your Washer Has a Clean Cycle
Some newer washing machines come with a dedicated “Clean Washer” cycle. If yours does, that’s awesome! Just run that cycle once a month with hot water and no clothes inside. If your machine allows it, you can still add vinegar to boost the cleaning power.
Not sure if your washer has this feature? Check the control panel or your user manual. If you don’t see a clean cycle, just follow the steps above for your machine type. Either way, giving your washer a deep clean once a month is a great habit to get into.
How Often Should You Clean Your Washer?
The short answer: once a month or every 30 wash cycles, whichever comes first. If you use your machine every day, you might want to clean it a bit more often. On the flip side, if you only do a few loads a week, once a month should be just fine.
Also, pay attention to signs that your machine needs a clean. If it starts to smell musty, clothes come out smelly, or you notice a film on the inside of the drum—those are all signs it’s time to give it a good scrub.
It might seem like a small thing, but regular cleaning keeps your washer working at its best and helps keep your clothes fresh and clean. Plus, it’s super easy once you know how.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mix vinegar and bleach to clean my washing machine?
No, you should never mix vinegar and bleach. Combining these two creates toxic chlorine gas, which can be dangerous to your health. Stick with using vinegar and baking soda—it’s safe, natural, and effective.
Do I need to use special cleaners for my high-efficiency washer?
You don’t need to buy special cleaning products. Vinegar and baking soda work great and are gentle on your machine. Plus, they’re way cheaper than store-bought cleaners.
Why does my washing machine smell bad after cleaning?
If your washer still smells after cleaning, it might be time to check the drain pump or the rubber seal more closely. Mold can hide in places that are hard to reach. Try scrubbing again with vinegar and baking soda, and make sure the door is left open after each use to let everything dry out.
For more tips on keeping your home clean and your appliances running smoothly, learn more about home maintenance here. You can also check out our post on how to remove tough stains naturally if you’re looking for more eco-friendly cleaning hacks.



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