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How to Clean a Washing Machine

Tap each step to follow along in order.

  1. Check for a drum-clean cycle

    Most washing machines have a dedicated "tub clean" or "sanitize" cycle, so check your manual first to see whether your machine has this built-in function.

  2. Run a cleaner or oxygen-based cleaner through the cycle

    Add a commercial washing machine cleaner or an oxygen-based bleach powder to an empty drum (no detergent, no laundry) and run the drum-clean cycle to break down the residue and mold built up behind the drum.

  3. Remove and scrub the detergent drawer

    The detergent dispenser is a prime spot for mold since dried detergent and fabric softener residue collect there β€” pull it out if it's removable and scrub it with a toothbrush and water.

  4. Manage mold on the rubber door seal (front-loaders)

    The rubber gasket around a front-loading door tends to stay damp after each wash, making it a common spot for mold, so wipe it down regularly with a damp cloth and check inside the folds.

  5. Leave the door open to dry after each wash

    Leaving the door and detergent drawer open after finishing a load lets residual moisture evaporate quickly, which does a lot to cut down on mold growth.

The inside of your washer can dirty your clothes right back

Detergent residue and mineral buildup collect behind the drum and turn into a breeding ground for mold, and that grime can transfer right back onto your clothes during the next wash. Running a drum-clean cycle regularly is a basic part of actually getting clothes clean, not just an optional extra.

Managing humidity is the real key to preventing mold

Beyond the washing machine itself, controlling humidity throughout the home matters just as much for keeping mold at bay. Running a dehumidifier or exhaust fan in damp spaces, and airing out closets and laundry areas regularly, complements a clean washing machine in fighting mold and musty smells before humid seasons arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I clean an older machine that doesn't have a drum-clean cycle?

Run your longest wash cycle two or three times with no detergent, using either hot water and a washing machine cleaner or an oxygen-based cleaner, and you'll get a similar effect.

Can I use a washing machine cleaner and oxygen-based cleaner together?

It's safer to use one at a time rather than combining them, since their ingredients can overlap or react with each other β€” try a different product on your next cleaning cycle if you'd like to switch things up.