How to Deep Clean a Front-Load Washing Machine - step by step process guide
Photo by Limi change on Unsplash

How to Deep Clean a Front-Load Washing Machine

5 steps 45 min Beginner

Front-loaders develop mold and smell because the rubber gasket traps water. Monthly cleaning prevents the worst smell + extends life.

Share:

Your Progress

0 of 5 steps completed

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Step 1: Wipe the gasket (where smell lives)

Pull back the rubber gasket. Wipe with vinegar + microfiber. Black mildew = the cause of every front-loader smell.

Discussion for this step

Sign in to comment

Loading comments...

White vinegar + microfiber on gasket

Every fold. Skip and smell stays.

0
Bleach if mildew is heavy

Diluted 1:10. Wipe, rinse. Don't mix with other cleaners.

0
2

Step 2: Run hot cycle with cleaner

Empty drum + clean tab. Highest heat. Long cycle. Most washers have 'tub clean' mode.

Discussion for this step

Sign in to comment

Loading comments...

Affresh washer cleaner tabs

Drop in drum. Run hottest cycle. ~$15 for 6.

$2.50/use $15 for 6 View Details
0
Lemi-Shine washer cleaner

Citric acid based. ~$10.

$1.67/use $10 for 6 View Details
0
DIY: 2 cups vinegar + 1/4 cup baking soda

Vinegar in drum, baking soda in detergent. Hot cycle.

0
3

Step 3: Clean the detergent drawer

Pull out drawer (most release with a tab). Soak in hot water. Scrub with toothbrush.

Discussion for this step

Sign in to comment

Loading comments...

Soak + scrub

10 min hot soak, then toothbrush.

0
4

Step 4: Empty the drain filter

Behind a small access panel at bottom front. Catches coins, hair, lint. Empty every 2-3 months.

Discussion for this step

Sign in to comment

Loading comments...

Towel + bowl under filter (water comes out)

Has residual water. Open slowly.

0
Empty every 2-3 months

Skip = washer won't drain properly eventually.

0
5

Step 5: Leave door open between washes

Closed door traps moisture = mold. Crack the door after every wash. Half the gasket smell problem solved by this alone.

Discussion for this step

Sign in to comment

Loading comments...

Door cracked open between washes

Air-dries the gasket. Single most important habit.

0

Want to create your own processes?

Document your business workflows, train your team, and stop repeating yourself. Free to start.

Related Processes