DIY Washing Machine Cleaner

How often do you clean the machine that cleans your clothes? If the answer is infrequently—or never—keep reading.

When it comes to laundering, mankind has come a long way from ancient civilizations that beat clothing on rocks, scrubbed them with sand and stomped on them (so fresh and so clean, clean). In the early 1900s, the first electric washing machine, which was powered by an electric motor, was mass-produced for home use. The ever-convenient appliance has only gotten better over time. Our modern-day washing machine is a true gift. That said, it’s imperative that the one you own is properly taken care of so it can do its job effectively.

This two-ingredient washing machine cleaner is designed to flush out excess dirt and bacteria and overall, deep clean your machine.

Should I deep clean my washing machine?

There are a few signs that your washing machine is ready for a deep clean. If you notice an unpleasant odor, visible mold or caked up detergent residue, it’s time. Even if you don’t notice these signs, a good rule of thumb is to deep clean your washing machine at least once a month or every 30 cycles—especially if you wash heavily soiled items frequently, such as cloth diapers, dirty rags, super-sweaty athletic clothing or “work” clothes (think, yard work, etc.).

What should I use to clean my washing machine?

Vinegar is an effective and natural cleaner. Its acidity can help kill bacteria and dissolve minerals and soap scum buildup. Combine with baking soda to help remove hard water deposits. Harsh chemicals, such as bleach, aren’t necessary when it comes to cleaning your washing machine.

Ingredients
4 cups white vinegar
1 cup baking soda

Directions for front-loader
1. Fill spray bottle with 2 cups vinegar. Spray interior and rubber gaskets thoroughly.
2. Starting with rubber gaskets, use rag to wipe away any visible mold, mildew and soap scum. Close the door.
3. Pour two cups white vinegar directly into the detergent dispenser. Set machine to largest and hottest cycle setting. Once the cycle completes, move to the next step.
4. Open the door and pour in ½ cup baking soda. Set machine to largest and hottest cycle setting. Once the cycle completes, move to the next step.
5. Use dry rag to wipe down interior and leave door ajar until ready to use.

Directions for top-loader
1. Select hottest water temperature and largest load size. As machine filled with water, add 4 cups white vinegar. Once machine is completely full and load starts to run, hit pause and let the water and vinegar sit for 1 hour.
2. Once the cycle is complete, restart machine and let it continue running. After it drains, move on to the next step.
3. Pour one cup of baking soda into the drum. Choose the same settings (hottest and largest) and let cycle run completely through. When finished, use dry rag to wipe down interior and leave lid open.

Remember to clean these neglected washing machine parts

Washer filter: Also called a drain pump filter, this should be cleaned every two months and/or whenever you deep clean. This filter is responsible for protecting the drain pump from lint buildup and other obstructions. This way, the washer can drain properly after each wash cycle. In most cases, you can locate the washer filter at the bottom of the washer drum underneath the agitator. Note: Most top-loader washers made after 2001 do not have washer filters.

To clean the filter, place a shallow container underneath the little door to collect any water once opened. Remove filter and pull off large clumps of lint and all that other yucky stuff. Clean with warm water using scrub brush to remove any slimy residue. Once clean, simply reinsert and shut the door.

Dispenser: Don’t overlook the detergent and fabric softener drawer! In bowl, mix a little white vinegar with baking soda to create a paste. Use a small scrub brush (or even an old toothbrush) to scrub detergent residue from inside the tray.