HOW TO CLEAN YOUR WASHING MACHINE AND WHY YOU MUST DO IT MONTHLY
A dirty washing machine does not clean clothes properly. Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, lint, mold, and bacteria build up inside your washer. This causes bad smells, poor washing results, stains on clothes, and expensive breakdowns.
That is why learning how to clean your washing machine and doing it monthly is not optional—it is essential.
Why You Must Clean Your Washing Machine Every Month
If you are wondering why experts insist on monthly cleaning, here are the hard facts:
- Prevents bad odors caused by mold and trapped moisture
- Improves washing performance and water flow
- Extends the life of your washing machine
- Protects your clothes from stains and bacteria
- Reduces repair costs by preventing blockages and corrosion
Skipping monthly cleaning leads to clogged pumps, damaged bearings, faulty sensors, and leaks.
How to Clean Your Washing Machine (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Clean the Drum (Top Load & Front Load)
This is the most important step when learning how to clean your washing machine.
What you need:
- White vinegar OR baking soda
- Hot water
Steps:
- Run an empty cycle on the hottest water setting
- Add 2 cups of white vinegar (or manufacturer-recommended cleaner)
- Let the cycle complete fully
👉 This removes soap scum, bacteria, and odor-causing residue.
2. Clean the Detergent Drawer
The detergent tray is a major source of mold.
Steps:
- Remove the drawer completely
- Soak in warm water and vinegar
- Scrub gently with a brush
- Dry before reinstalling
3. Clean the Rubber Door Seal (Front Load Washers)
Mold hides here.
Steps:
- Wipe the rubber seal with a cloth soaked in vinegar
- Remove trapped hair, lint, and coins
- Dry thoroughly
4. Clean the Washing Machine Filter
Many people ignore this step and regret it later.
Steps:
- Locate the filter (usually bottom front)
- Place a towel underneath
- Remove debris and rinse
- Reinstall securely
A clogged filter leads to drainage problems and error codes.
5. Clean the Exterior and Control Panel
- Use a damp cloth
- Avoid harsh chemicals
- Keep vents dust-free
How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?
| Part | Cleaning Frequency |
|---|---|
| Drum | Monthly |
| Detergent Drawer | Monthly |
| Door Seal | Monthly |
| Filter | Every 1–3 months |
| Exterior | Weekly |
Signs Your Washing Machine Needs Immediate Cleaning
If you notice any of these, clean your washer now:
- Clothes smell bad after washing
- Black mold around the door seal
- Water not draining properly
- Soap residue on clothes
- Loud or unusual noises
Ignoring these signs often leads to major repairs.
Can Poor Cleaning Cause Washing Machine Breakdown?
Yes. Dirt buildup causes:
- Pump failure
- Blocked hoses
- Bearing damage
- Sensor errors
Many washing machine repairs we handle could have been avoided with proper monthly cleaning.
When to Call a Professional Washing Machine Technician
If your washer still smells, leaks, or shows error codes after cleaning, you may already have internal damage.
Professional inspection is recommended if:
- Machine won’t drain
- Loud grinding noises persist
- Error codes keep appearing
- Drum does not spin properly
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to clean your washing machine and doing it every month protects your appliance, your clothes, and your money. It is one of the simplest ways to avoid costly repairs and keep your washer performing like new.
Need Professional Washing Machine Cleaning or Repair?
Call Refitec today for fast, reliable washing machine service.
📞 07048433613