It might seem a little strange to have to to thoroughly clean an appliance that spends all day washingBut the same thing happens with washing machines. Even though they're constantly in contact with water and detergent, the reality is that inside they accumulate dirt, limescale, soap scum, and moisture, which end up working against you: bad smells, stains on clothes, breakdowns, and a much shorter lifespan than it should have.
If you do laundry almost daily at home, your washing machine is working hard. And, like any appliance, it needs... minimal maintenance and regular cleaning So it keeps working like new. The good news is you don't need to get bogged down with impossible cleaning tasks: by knowing which parts get dirtier, why it happens, and what products to use (from vinegar and baking soda to specific machine cleaners), you can make it look brand new without spending a fortune or wasting your morning.
Why you should clean your washing machine regularly
One of the most widespread ideas is that, since hot water and detergent are used in each wash, The washing machine cleans itself inside.It is true that some of the dirt is washed away with each cycle, but it is also true that traces of detergent, fabric softener, lint, limescale and moisture accumulate in hidden corners: rubber, filter, inside of the drum, soap drawer... and that's where the problems begin.
With every wash, especially if you use short programs and cold water, The inside of the machine is not completely disinfectedBacteria and fungi find the perfect environment to multiply in constant humidity and soap residue. You know the result all too well: that unpleasant musty smell that can also end up permeating freshly washed clothes.How to remove bad smell from washing machine).
Besides the bad smell, there is another important issue: The accumulated dirt puts strain on the internal workings of the washing machine.Detergent residue sticks to the drum, limescale builds up in the pipes, the filter gradually clogs, and the seals begin to mold. All of this makes the appliance work harder, consume more energy, clean clothes less effectively, and increases the likelihood of a costly breakdown prematurely.
Cleaning the washing machine regularly isn't just a matter of hygiene. It's also a very simple way to extend the appliance's lifespan and avoid unnecessary repairsIf you also take the opportunity to check the rubber seal, the filter, and the detergent drawer, you'll have control over the critical points where dirt accumulates the most.
Another often overlooked reason is the effect of overdosing on detergent. When you use more product than necessary thinking that the clothes will come out cleaner, what actually happens is that Some of that detergent gets stuck to the inside walls of the washing machine.It decomposes over time and generates odor, stains, and can even trigger allergic reactions in sensitive skin. A good alternative to reduce waste is to learn to save money with liquid washing machine soap and better dose the product.
The part of the washing machine that gets the dirtiest: the drum seal
If your washing machine is front-loading, one of the most delicate points is the bellows, that is, the gray or black rubber that surrounds the door and seals the drumIts function is to prevent water leaks, but its folds become filled with small pockets where water stagnates after each wash. This trapped moisture is a perfect breeding ground for mold, black stains, and unpleasant odors.
These folds not only accumulate water. With continued use, they also trap dirt. lint, detergent residue, coins, hairpins, hair, and even small pieces of paper that have not been properly expelled during the spin cycle (consult how to clean the rubber on your washing machineAll of that mixes together over time and ends up forming a sticky, dark layer that is quite unpleasant to see… and to smell.
The problem with having a dirty rubber seal isn't just aesthetic. When mold and dirt take hold, The washing machine carries that smell into the drumcontaminating the appliance's environment and leaving a strange smell in the laundry. You might even notice small gray or black stains on light-colored clothes, caused by these fungi.
If it is not cleaned regularly, the rubber can begin to deteriorate: it becomes stiffer, loses elasticity, and Small cracks appear that can cause water leaks during washing. In those cases, there's no other option but to replace the part, with the associated costs. That's why taking some time to clean it periodically is an investment in peace of mind.
A highly recommended routine is, after each wash, Quickly dry the most accessible folds of the rubber with a cloth.It's a quick and easy step that significantly reduces moisture buildup. Combined with occasional deep cleaning using appropriate products, this key area will remain in perfect condition for years.
How to deep clean the washing machine rubber seal
To restore the rubber to its clean appearance and prevent mold growth, one of the most effective methods is to use disinfectant gel bleach or hydrogen peroxide combined with a good contact timeIt's not about giving it a quick wipe and being done with it, but about letting the product do its job by softening the dirt embedded in the folds.
A very practical trick is to moisten well some kitchen towels or old dishcloths with the chosen product (gel bleach or hydrogen peroxide) and place them directly onto the most stained areas of the rubber, pressing down slightly to ensure they adhere well. Beforehand, it's advisable to lightly spray the bellows with the same product to thoroughly soak them.
Ideally, leave the cloths on for at least an hour, although if the rubber is very blackened you can extend the time. The exposure time is several hours for the mold to soften completely.Next, remove the rags with gloves and use a brush (it can be an old toothbrush) to scrub the inner folds, paying special attention to where you see black spots or dried dirt.
Once you have removed most of the visible dirt, wipe it down with a well-wrung cloth and clean water. Remove product residue and loose dirtNext, dry both the rubber seal and the metal rim of the washing machine opening with a dry cloth. This final drying step is key to preventing mold from reappearing so quickly.
To finish the cleaning and make sure there are no traces of bleach or hydrogen peroxide left inside the drum, it's a good idea to put a short rinse cycle or a quick program with clean water, without clothes or detergentThis ensures that no harsh products come into contact with the clothes in the next wash.
Cleaning the drum: why cold water isn't enough
In most homes, almost everything is washed at temperatures below 40°C, which is equivalent to programs of Cold or lukewarm water is gentler on clothes and uses less energyIt's a good choice for delicate garments, colors, and synthetic fabrics, but it has a downside: low temperatures are not as effective at eliminating bacteria and germs responsible for bad odors.
If you never or almost never program a high-temperature cycle, the inside of the drum and the walls of the tub become a humid space where, little by little, a biofilm develops It's made up of microorganisms, decomposed detergent, and microscopic dirt. You can't see it with the naked eye, but you notice it when you open the door and get a strange smell.
To break that pattern, it's worth including it in your maintenance routine. occasionally run a 90°C wash cycle with the washing machine empty.Some modern machines already come with a specific program called "drum cleaning" or similar, designed precisely for this: to remove dirt, wash away detergent residue and eliminate bacteria using very hot water.
If your washing machine doesn't have a dedicated self-cleaning program, you can select the longest cotton cycle or one that reaches at least 60-90°C and use appropriate detergents. For a more thorough clean, appliance manufacturers recommend using [specific detergents/products]. specific washing machine cleaners in powder or liquid form, pouring them directly into the empty drum and letting the cycle do the rest.
Even if you use a specific cleaner, it is advisable to repeat this process. every three or four months, or whenever the washing machine has been out of use for a long timeThis keeps bad odors under control, reduces the chances of hard-to-remove dirt deposits forming, and protects the internal system from breakdowns.
Detergent residue: the silent enemy of the washing machine
One of the most common misconceptions is that “the more detergent, the cleaner the clothes will be,” but it’s actually the opposite. When you use more product than the manufacturer recommends, A significant part never fully dissolves or becomes clear.and ends up stuck to the drum, in the tub, in the drawer or clogging internal channels.
Over time, these remains form whitish or sticky deposits that decompose slowlyThis generates unpleasant odors and encourages the growth of bacteria and fungi. Furthermore, leftover detergent can accumulate in clothing fibers, causing a rough feel, stains, or the need for extra rinses, resulting in increased water consumption.
One way to avoid this problem is to get used to Measure the correct amount of detergent based on water hardness, type of clothing, and level of soiling.Many mid-range and high-end household appliances already have intelligent self-dosing systems (such as washing machines with i-DOS technology), capable of automatically adjusting the necessary dose in each wash to avoid overdoing it or falling short.
In any case, cleaning the drum regularly with maintenance cycles and appropriate products helps to Remove those accumulated residues that were not removed in previous washes.This improves the quality of the wash, reduces the "closed washing machine" smell, and minimizes the possibility of allergies or irritations in sensitive skin caused by poorly rinsed detergent.
If you notice that your clothes come out smelling "strange" despite using a detergent that smells good, or you perceive soapy stains, bubbles stuck to the glass, or excessive foam Even in short cycles, it's a pretty clear sign that excess detergent is building up and it's time for a good internal cleaning.
Specific products for cleaning the washing machine: are they worth it?
In recent years, they have appeared on the market machine cleaning fluids and specific cleaners for washing machines Designed specifically to simplify cleaning the inside of your appliance. They are very easy to use: simply pour the contents of the container into the drum or detergent drawer (as indicated by the manufacturer) and program an empty wash cycle, usually at a high temperature.
These products are usually formulated to Dissolve limescale, remove detergent residue, eliminate grease and reduce bad odors These substances accumulate in pipes, filters, and internal parts that are not easily accessible. Furthermore, many leave a pleasant aroma that is noticeable when the door is opened after the cycle.
There are very economical packs that include several uses, for example three bottles for three complete washing machine cleaningswith a relatively low total cost. The usual recommendation is to use one of these cleaners once a month or every two months, depending on how often you use your washing machine and the water hardness in your area.
Some of these machine cleaning fluids are also biodegradable and environmentally friendlyThey decompose easily and are not as harsh as other chemical products. Combined with occasional cleaning with a cloth in accessible areas (rubber seal, drawer, front of the drum), they achieve a very thorough result with very little effort.
Something very similar happens with the dishwasher: It also needs its own cleaning cycles with specific products To remove grease, limescale, and unpleasant odors from filters and pipes. Keeping dirt at bay in both appliances is a simple way to prevent breakdowns and ensure that both dishes and clothes come out truly clean.
More natural alternatives: vinegar and baking soda
If you prefer to avoid harsh detergents and opt for more eco-friendly solutions, you have two allies at your disposal that you probably already have at home: white vinegar and baking sodaWhen used correctly, they are able to remove limescale, remove dirt, and neutralize bad odors quite effectively.
White vinegar acts as natural descaling, disinfecting and deodorizing agentTo use it in the washing machine, simply pour about a cup into the detergent drawer and run a high-temperature rinse cycle (around 50-60°C) or a short wash cycle without clothes. The vinegar will circulate through the internal system, helping to remove limescale and soap scum buildup from the drum and pipes.
Baking soda, meanwhile, is a powerful odor neutralizer and helps to remove detergent residue and ingrained dirtYou can mix half a cup of baking soda with a little hot water and pour the mixture into the detergent drawer, then select an empty wash cycle. This way, the baking soda will work inside the washing machine, reducing odors and cleaning residue.
You can also use a mixture of water and vinegar or baking soda with water to manually clean specific areas such as the rubber seal or the drawerApplying the solution with a cloth and using a small brush in difficult corners will remove mold, dried soap scum, and stubborn dirt.
These natural alternatives do not completely replace the need to occasionally do a high-temperature cleaning cycle or use specific productsHowever, they are a good option for regular maintenance that is less aggressive on the environment (and your wallet) and for spacing out the use of stronger chemicals.
How to clean the drum step by step
Cleaning the drum itself is probably the easiest part of washing machine maintenance, because You can take advantage of their own washing programs to do this. (see our step by step guideThe first thing is to make sure the inside is completely empty, with no forgotten clothes or objects in the pockets that could come loose.
Next, choose which product you're going to use: you can opt for vinegar, baking soda, a specific washing machine cleaner, or even a small amount of bleach If your goal is thorough disinfection, the product is placed in the drawer or directly into the drum, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
The next step is to select a program that reach around 90°C or at least a high temperatureThe combination of hot water and cleaning product is what will dissolve the grease, dried soap residue, and any possible colonies of bacteria adhering to the inner walls of the tub.
Once the cycle is complete, it is recommended to activate a short extra rinse program To ensure no product residue remains that could end up on your clothes in the next wash. If you still notice a smell when you open the door, you can leave it open for a while to allow the interior to air out.
Some modern washing machines incorporate a specific program called "drum cleaning", "eco drum" or similar that is already configured with the ideal duration and temperature. If your model includes it, the most convenient thing to do is use it as is with the recommended product. by the manufacturer, without the need for manual adjustments.
Don't forget the filter: the great forgotten element
The washing machine filter is usually, by far, the most overlooked part of appliance maintenanceHowever, it's key to preventing blockages, bad smells, and drainage problems. Lint, coins, buttons, paper clips, and all sorts of small objects that fall in from our pockets accumulate in it.
Before handling the filter, make sure the washing machine is completely empty of water and clothesIf your model includes a specific draining or emptying program, it's a good idea to activate it so that the pump removes as much water as possible before starting.
Next, unplug the washing machine or turn off the power at the electrical panel to work with complete safetyLocate the filter cover, which is usually on the lower front, and have a mop or a low tray handy, because it's normal for some water to come out when you open it.
Carefully unscrew the filter and slowly pull it out. avoid a jet of water that is too strongManually remove any large objects and debris you find, then wash the filter under the tap with hot water, using a small brush if necessary to remove stubborn dirt.
When it's clean and dry, put it back on and make sure it's screwed on tightly. prevent leaks in future washesOnce closed, you can plug the washing machine back in and, if you want to check that everything is in order, run a short rinse cycle, observing that there are no water leaks.
The detergent drawer and other key areas
The drawer where you put the detergent and fabric softener is another area where they accumulate without you even noticing. soap scum, mold, and stagnant water dropletsOver time, crusts and a dark layer form in the corners, which also contributes to bad odors and can interfere with the correct dosage of the products.
Almost all detergent dispenser drawers can be removed by carefully pulling them out and pressing a central tab. Once out, wash it in the sink with hot water and a little neutral soap, vinegar or baking sodascrubbing well with a sponge or brush in the corners and crevices where dried detergent accumulates.
Don't forget to also clean the recess where the drawer fits, because That's where moisture and mold tend to accumulate.You can use a cloth dampened with vinegar or a mixture of water and a little very diluted bleach, then wipe it with a clean cloth and leave it to dry with the lid open.
In addition to the drum, the rubber seal, the filter, and the drawer, it's worth paying attention to the washing machine's immediate surroundings: door seals, hinges, front and lower areasA quick wipe with a damp cloth from time to time helps prevent the accumulation of dust, spilled detergent, or lint that can then end up inside the appliance.
A washing machine that's clean inside is also appreciated on the outside. Keeping the control panel and buttons free of debris makes it be more pleasant to use and ensure that the symbols do not fade prematurelyThis is quite common when using very aggressive products or scouring pads that scratch the plastic.
Ideal frequency and habits to avoid bad odors
To prevent your washing machine from smelling bad again just a few days after cleaning, it's not enough to do a deep clean every now and then. It's important to adopt a few simple habits after each load of laundry that make a difference in the medium term.
As a general rule, it is recommended Perform a complete cleaning of the washing machine at least three times a yearThat is, approximately every four months. In homes where laundry is done daily or almost daily, it may be advisable to shorten this interval and perform some additional cleaning, especially of the drum and the rubber seal.
Furthermore, it's a good habit. Always follow the manufacturer's charging recommendationsOverloading the washing machine prevents clothes from moving properly, ensures the detergent isn't distributed correctly, and causes more dirt to build up in the seal and drum. An overloaded load doesn't get cleaner; in fact, it does the opposite.
Before putting clothes in, always check the pockets to prevent coins, papers, tissues or tickets They end up circulating through the drum and accumulating in the filter or drain pump. When you take the laundry out, take a quick look at the rubber seal to see if anything is caught and remove it immediately.
One of the most important steps to prevent bad odor is Leave the washing machine door and detergent drawer slightly open after each washThis ventilates the interior, evaporates residual moisture, and greatly hinders the proliferation of mold and bacteria that need a humid and enclosed environment to develop.
Finally, try not to overuse detergent or fabric softener. The accumulation of product that the washing machine does not use is one of the main causes of bad smells and breakdowns.Once a week, if you use the washing machine a lot, you can do a short empty cycle with a little bleach in the tub to keep germs at bay, always following the manufacturer's instructions.
When these small habits are internalized (ventilating, drying the rubber seal, controlling the detergent dose, checking pockets and cleaning the filter and drawer from time to time), The washing machine ceases to be a source of unpleasant surprises and it becomes that reliable appliance that washes well, doesn't smell bad and lasts for many years without giving you any trouble.
Taking care of your washing machine with these simple routines also means taking care of your clothes, your wallet, and peace of mind at home: Fewer breakdowns, fewer strange smells, more efficient wash cycles, and that truly clean laundry smell that everyone loves., without the need for miracle products or endless cleaning.