When was the last time you cleaned your washing machine? We never think of cleaning the appliance that cleans our clothes, but it’s essential for a toxin-free home. Well, today is the day to finally learn how to deep clean a washing machine.

I’ve talked about detoxing your laundry detergent and dryer sheets before, which are two essential things to swap in your household. Before switching to toxin-free laundry supplies, let’s clean your washing machine to eliminate lingering chemicals. This is also great to do every 3-4 months, depending on how often you run laundry. Let’s learn how to deep clean a washing machine together!

DIY vs. Self-Clean Settings

If your washing machine has a self-cleaning setting, you can use it for a quick cleaning. However, I still recommend this process to deep clean a washing machine. The self-clean function uses hot water and a dedicated spin pattern to rinse the inside of the drum, but it doesn’t address other areas of the washing machine, like the detergent tray or exterior. This is fine to do every month or so for a quick clean.

A deep clean ensures every part of your washing machine is clean. Use toxin-free cleaning products to scrub away toxins and dirt. Do a deep clean every few months to keep your washing machine in top condition and your clothes as clean as possible.

5 Steps to Deep Clean a Washing Machine

The next time you’re due for a deep cleaning, follow these steps! You’ll need these supplies, but you probably already have them in your house!

• White vinegar: A natural cleaner and deodorizer.
• Baking soda: To remove odors and dissolve grime.
• A soft sponge or microfiber cloth: For wiping down surfaces.
• Toothbrush: For scrubbing small, hard-to-reach areas.
• Non-toxic dish soap or mild detergent: For cleaning trays and seals.

1. Clean the Drum

The washing machine drum is where detergent, dirt, and minerals from water can build up over time. Think of all the loads of laundry you do in a month. Dirt, stains, food, and dust from dirty clothes can linger in the drum after the cycle finishes. That residue is there for the next load, and it builds over time.

To clean the washing machine drum, pour 2-4 cups of white vinegar into it. Start a hot water cycle to disinfect the drum. The washing machine should be empty—no clothes for this cycle! Next, run an empty hot water cycle again, but this time with ½ cups of baking soda. This will deodorize and scrub away any grime that’s left over.

After those two cycles are done, check the drum for stains or residue that may still be there. Use your sponge or microfiber cloth and vinegar to scrub them away. Don’t worry – the vinegar smell won’t last long or stick to your next load of laundry!

2. Scrub the Seals and Gaskets

The rubber seals and gaskets, especially in front-loading machines, are notorious for trapping moisture, dirt, and detergent. But all washing machines need to have their seals and gaskets cleaned every once in a while! 

Check for black spots (mold) or discoloration (mildew) on the seals. Soak a sponge or toothbrush with white vinegar and scrub the seals. Focus on folds and crevices where grime tends to hide. Once you thoroughly clean it, wipe the area dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent mold from growing in that area. For extra protection, you can sprinkle baking soda on the seal to absorb extra moisture.

3. Remove and Clean the Detergent Tray

Detergent and fabric softener trays can collect gunk that blocks them from dispensing properly. First, remove the tray (check the owner’s manual if you aren’t sure how). Most trays can easily be pulled out. Dunk the tray in warm, soapy water for about 30 minutes, then use a toothbrush to scrub off anything left over. Rinse the tray under running water and let it air dry before putting it back in your washing machine.

4. Check and Clean the Filter

The filter traps lint and debris but can clog over time. Again, use the owner’s manual to find the filter (usually at the bottom front panel on your washing machine). Carefully remove the filter and remove any visible lint or debris. Rinse the filter under warm water and scrub away grime using a toothbrush. Make sure it’s dry before putting it back into your washing machine.

5. Wipe Down the Exterior

Last but not least, let’s wipe the exterior of the washing machine to make it nice and shiny (and prevent dirt and dust from getting into your clean washing machine!) Spray non-toxic cleaner or a simple vinegar solution onto the exterior surfaces. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe the top, sides, and control panel. 

Prevent Future Build-Up

When you deep clean a washing machine regularly, you extend the lifecycle of your appliance. Remember, use the self-clean cycle (if you have it) once a month and follow these steps for a deep clean every 3-4 months. These weekly habits help keep your washing machine in good shape in between deep cleans:

• Leave the door open between loads to allow the inside to dry completely.
• Use a dry cloth to remove moisture from the seals and inner drum.
• Measure laundry detergent to avoid using too much, which is 1) wasteful but 2) contributes to buildup over time.

It isn’t hard to deep clean a washing machine, but it’s easily forgotten! Doing this process every few months improves performance and ensures your clothes come out extra clean and fresh after each load. What are you waiting for? Gather your supplies and get to cleaning!

Shop all toxin-free cleaning products in my Shopping Guide.