How To Clean The Washing Machine

Inside: When was the last time you cleaned the washing machine? Check out how to clean the washing machine without any scrubbing. It only takes a few minutes of your time and your clothes will smell better!

For years, the idea of cleaning the machines that clean for us seemed so silly. Why would we ever clean the washing machine? But I started to realize that washing machines need to be cleaned too. Whether you have a top load or a front load machine, it does need to be cleaned. If you have a front load washing machine check out my how to clean your front load washer here. If you have a top load machine see below for my best tips on how to clean the washing machine like a pro.

My washing machine (a top loader) had started to get a nice soap scummy look to it. Soap scummy is a word, right? 🙂 I was tired of seeing it look gross, so I recently cleaned it. Although it is easy to clean the washing machine, it does take some time while the cycles are running. I like to run two long cycles, so this is great to do on those days that you are home for a while.

Start by putting the washing machine on its longest cycle. If you have an extra rinse cycle I recommend using that too. Add 1 cup of bleach to the water and let the machine run through the cycle. The bleach helps get rid of any bacteria that may be in your washer.

Once the washing machine has finished fill it up again. Again I recommend using the longest cycle and an extra rinse cycle if you have it. This time add 3 cups of vinegar to the machine. The vinegar will help with any soap scum and get rid of smells. I recommend stopping the cycle as soon as the machine fills up and letting it sit for about 15 minutes with the vinegar. Then turn it back on and wait for it to finish.

When the machine is finished with the second cycle, open it up and wipe it down. I just use a microfiber cloth. The washing machine will be clean and rid of any dust and grime. You can also take a few minutes and wipe down the outside of the machine. I just use my granite spray on it. It’s amazing how dusty the machine gets.

It looks and smells so much better now that I have cleaned the washing machine. Even though it takes a while for the washing machine to run through the cycles, it doesn’t take a lot of my time to clean the washing machine. I have found that by regularly cleaning the appliances I can keep them running longer and working better.

Want more cleaning tips? Check out how to clean the dryer vent like a pro. It will save you money and help prevent fires.

 

P.S. For more cleaning tricks and frugal tips delivered to your inbox subscribe here!

---

Save for later