How to Clean Washing Machine: Simple Tips for Fresh Laundry
You might assume that a machine designed for cleaning clothes would naturally stay clean itself. It’s a common thought, but unfortunately, it’s not the case. Over time, a nasty mix of detergent scum, limescale, and general grime builds up inside. This gunk creates the perfect breeding ground for mould and odour-causing bacteria, which explains why your laundry sometimes comes out smelling less than fresh, even after a wash.
Why a Clean Washing Machine Matters
A grubby machine doesn't just leave your clothes with a lingering musty scent. It also runs less efficiently and becomes far more prone to breakdowns. Giving it a regular clean is one of the simplest preventative measures you can take to keep it running at its best, extending its lifespan and ensuring your clothes are truly, hygienically clean.
This kind of maintenance has become especially important for UK households trying to manage the rising cost of living. In fact, washing machine repairs shot up by 24% between 2020 and 2022, as more homeowners focus on upkeep to avoid the hefty cost of a replacement. Knowing how to clean your washing machine properly is a key part of sidestepping common issues. For a deeper dive, check out our guide on the essential washing machine mishaps to avoid.
Choosing Your Cleaning Toolkit
Before you roll up your sleeves, getting the right supplies together makes the whole job much easier. You don’t need a massive arsenal of products; in fact, you probably have some of the most effective cleaners sitting in your kitchen cupboards right now. The main choice usually comes down to simple household staples versus specialised commercial cleaners. For most routine maintenance, you can't go wrong with white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda – they're brilliant, cost-effective options.
However, if you're dealing with stubborn limescale from hard water or a really persistent musty smell, a dedicated washing machine cleaner might be a better investment. It’s a growing market for a reason, with UK consumers spending more on keeping their appliances in good nick as part of an estimated £448.9 million appliance repair industry. You can learn more about these UK appliance upkeep trends from IBISWorld.
Natural vs Commercial Washing Machine Cleaners
Both natural and commercial cleaners have their place. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide.
| Cleaning Agent | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Vinegar | Cheap, readily available, great for dissolving limescale and soap scum. | Can be harsh on rubber seals over time if used too frequently. Strong smell. | General monthly cleaning, descaling in hard water areas. |
| Bicarbonate of Soda | Excellent at neutralising odours, gentle abrasive for scrubbing, inexpensive. | Not as effective against heavy limescale or mould on its own. | Deodorising the drum and drawer, tackling mild grime. |
| Commercial Cleaners | Formulated to tackle specific issues like tough limescale, mould, and bacteria. | More expensive, may contain harsh chemicals. | Deep cleaning every 3-6 months, targeting persistent odours or build-up. |
| Citric Acid | A powerful natural descaler, less pungent than vinegar. | Can be harder to find in local shops than vinegar. | Heavily scaled-up machines where vinegar isn't cutting it. |
A balanced approach often works best. Using natural cleaners for regular upkeep and a commercial product for a deep clean a few times a year will keep your machine in top condition.
Your Basic Cleaning Kit
No matter which cleaner you go for, a few basic tools are essential:
- A microfibre cloth for wiping down surfaces.
- An old toothbrush is perfect for scrubbing tight spots.
- A small bowl for soaking removable parts like the detergent drawer.
Performing a Deep Drum Cleanse
With your cleaning solution ready, it's time to tackle the heart of the machine—the drum. This is where hidden grime and odour-causing bacteria build up, so a regular maintenance wash is the most effective thing you can do to sanitise the drum and internal pipes.
If you're going the natural route, simply pour two cups of white vinegar straight into the drum and add half a cup of bicarbonate of soda into the detergent drawer. If you're using a shop-bought cleaner, just follow the instructions on the packet. The crucial part of this step is to run a completely empty cycle on the hottest setting your machine has, ideally 90°C. The heat is essential for dissolving stubborn residue and killing off bacteria.
Cleaning the Seal and Drawer
With the drum sparkling, turn your attention to the rubber door seal (gasket) and the detergent drawer. These are the two biggest culprits for trapping moisture, which quickly becomes a breeding ground for mould.
Getting into the Gasket: Gently pull back the folds of the rubber seal. You’ll likely find hair, lint, and damp residue. Grab a cloth dampened with your cleaning solution and wipe it all away thoroughly.
Tackling the Drawer: The detergent drawer often gets clogged with a caked-on mix of old fabric softener and powder. Most drawers have a release catch; press it, and the unit should slide out. Soaking the drawer in a bowl of warm, soapy water for about 30 minutes does wonders. After that, an old toothbrush is the perfect tool for scrubbing out any remaining gunk from the compartments before you rinse, dry, and pop it back in.
Checking the Filter and Exterior
To finish the job, check the drain pump filter. It’s usually tucked away behind a small panel at the bottom front of your machine. This trap catches lint, coins, and debris that could cause drainage problems.
Before you open it, place a shallow tray and a towel underneath, as some water will spill out. Carefully unscrew the filter cap, pull out any gunk you find, give the filter a good rinse under a tap, and wipe out the housing before you screw it tightly back into place. For a more detailed walkthrough, you can learn more about how to clean your washing machine filter in our specific guide. Finally, give the outside of the machine a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth.
Keeping Your Washing Machine Fresh
Now that your machine is sparkling, keeping it that way is simple. After you've emptied a load, just leave the door and the detergent drawer slightly ajar. It’s a tiny action that makes a huge difference, stopping moisture from getting trapped inside – the number one cause of that musty smell. Combine that with a monthly maintenance wash to keep your machine happy and extend its life.
Your Monthly Washing Machine Maintenance Checklist
Here’s a straightforward checklist. Sticking to this simple monthly routine will help you catch small problems before they become big ones.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Run a Maintenance Wash | Once a month | Clears out detergent residue, limescale, and bacteria. |
| Clean the Seal | Once a month | Prevents mould growth and nasty odours on the gasket. |
| Wipe Down the Exterior | Once a month | Keeps the machine looking clean and prevents dust build-up. |
| Check Hoses for Leaks | Once a month | A quick visual check can spot potential leaks or cracks. |
Following these steps regularly ensures your machine stays in peak condition. Of course, even with the best care, things can still go wrong. Blockages are a common headache, and if you find your machine won't drain, it's worth knowing how to unblock a washing machine waste pipe yourself. A little knowledge goes a long way in keeping your appliance running smoothly for years to come.
