ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled
| Filter | Status | Condition | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| HTTP status | PASS | download_http_code = 200 | HTTP 200 |
| Age cutoff | PASS | download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH | 0.2 months ago |
| History drop | PASS | isNull(history_drop_reason) | No drop reason |
| Spam/ban | PASS | fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0 | ml_spam_score=0 |
| Canonical | PASS | meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed | Not set |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| URL | https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/ |
| Last Crawled | 2026-04-07 13:02:02 (7 days ago) |
| First Indexed | 2019-11-23 02:37:51 (6 years ago) |
| HTTP Status Code | 200 |
| Meta Title | How To Clean a Washing Machine - How to Clean Front or Top Loading Washing Machine |
| Meta Description | So how exactly do you clean a washing machine? Whether you have a front or top loading machine, most manufacturers suggest that you clean your washer at least once every six months. Here's how. |
| Meta Canonical | null |
| Boilerpipe Text | We often assume that our appliances are somehow cleaning themselves at all times. Wrong. You gotta
clean that dishwasher
. Your
iron needs some serious TLC
. Even that self-
cleaning oven
might need a little elbow grease to keep it sparkling. Because the fact of the matter is all that dirt and grime has to go somewhere. It doesn't just magically disappear! This also applies to your clothing washer: Built-up stuff can prevent your clothes from getting clean. Luckily, there are a few tried-and-true natural products and methods that will help make your washer pristine.
How often should I clean my washing machine?
It's recommended that you clean your washing machine at least every six months. Some even recommend bi-weekly or monthly cleanings if your washer sees heavy traffic (see: every family with children). Cleaning on the regular will not only keep your clothes cleaner, it will also help your machine be more efficient and effective as well. While there are quite a few name-brand products on the market that are made to clean your washer, you can save money and time by just using things you already have on-hand.
What you need to clean your washing machine:
• 2 to 4 cups vinegar:
Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and safer than harsher chemicals like bleach that may discolor clothing and irritate skin.
• 1 package baking soda:
This will act as a type of scrubber, loosening up any bits of grime that are caked up on the walls of the drum.
• Toothbrush:
It will help you get into all the nooks and crannies of your machine, as well as being very helpful in cleaning out your filter.
• Essential oils
(optional)
:
Put a few drops of your favorite essential oil into your vinegar to soften the odor during cleaning. We recommend lavender or tea tree oil, as they both have disinfectant properties.
• Microfiber cloths:
These handy sheets will pick up any hair or grime that have built up on your gasket and door/lid—they're also great for giving your whole machine a wipe down when you’re all done.
How to clean a front loading washing machine
Step 1:
Using a microfiber cloth, toothbrush, and a mild vinegar solution (1/4 cup vinegar in 1 quart of water), clean out around and inside the rubber gasket just inside your washer's door, making sure to collect any hair or gunk that has gathered inside. Wipe down the inside of the door.
Lazy_Bear
Mold and mildew can easily hide inside your front loader’s rubber gasket.
Step 2:
Pour 1 box of baking soda directly into the wash drum, then run washer on the longest and hottest setting (or the "Cleaning" setting, if you have it).
Step 3:
For the next wash add 2 cups of vinegar into the detergent dispenser (and 5 to 10 drops of essential oils, if desired), and run it on the longest and hottest cycle. This will help wash away any extra grime loosened by the baking soda.
Step 4
(optional):
Do an extra rinse just to get rid of any residual vinegar smell.
Now 37% Off
Step 5:
Using your cloths and toothbrush, soak and clean out the detergent dispenser in your vinegar solution and wipe down the outside of your whole machine.
Step 6:
Finally, locate your filter—it's usually a small door on the lower front of your machine. Before taking out the filter, place a towel and shallow tray underneath the opening as there will be a good bit of extra water that will come out with the filter. Remove the filter and pull out any hair or extra items (coins, bobby pins) that have collected in it and clean it under hot water with the toothbrush. Return the filter back to your machine.
darak77
How to clean a top loading washing machine
Step 1:
Pour 1 box of baking soda directly into the wash drum, then run washer on the longest and hottest setting. Fill the washer with water and open lid, letting it sit and soak for an hour. After an hour, close the lid and let it finish the cycle.
Now 27% Off
Step 2:
Start another empty load on the longest and hottest setting, and as the washer is filling up with water, add a quart of vinegar (and 10 to 15 drops of essential oil if desired) and let it agitate for a minute. Open the lid and let it sit for an hour.
Step 3:
While it gets its soak on, clean the rest of the parts of your machine with your cloths and toothbrush and vinegar solution—soap dispenser, agitator, lid, rubber gasket, and other hard-to-reach places!
Step 4:
Close the lid and finish the remainder of the wash cycle.
Step 5:
Finally, wipe off any residue with your vinegar solution inside the drum and wipe down the outside of the machine.
For both methods:
After all the TLC you’ve given your machine, keep it fresh by remembering to leave the door or lid open when not using. This will keep it dry and free from any excess mildew or mold. |
| Markdown | [Search](https://www.countryliving.com/search/)
***
- [Subscribe](https://shop.countryliving.com/country-living-all-access-membership-2999.html?cds_tracking_code=clg_panelnav)
- [My Bookmarks](https://www.countryliving.com/my-stuff/)
- [Member Exclusives](https://www.countryliving.com/country-club/)
- [Country Life](https://www.countryliving.com/life/)
- [Holiday & Entertaining](https://www.countryliving.com/entertaining/)
- [Food & Drinks](https://www.countryliving.com/food-drinks/)
- [Kids & Pets](https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/)
- [Design Ideas](https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/)
- [Real Estate](https://www.countryliving.com/real-estate/)
- [Remodeling & Renovation](https://www.countryliving.com/remodeling-renovation/)
- [Gardening](https://www.countryliving.com/gardening/)
- [Home Maintenance](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/)
- [Crafts & DIY Projects](https://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/)
- [Country Living Shop](https://shop.countryliving.com/?source=clg_hamburger)
- [Shopping Guides](https://www.countryliving.com/shopping/)
- [Country Living Fair](https://www.countryliving.com/country-living-fair/)
- [Newsletter](https://countryliving.com/email/countryliving-newsletter)
- [Follow](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/#follow)
- [Promotions](https://www.countryliving.com/promotions/)
- [Other Editions](https://www.countryliving.com/)
[Privacy Notice](https://www.hearst.com/-/us-magazines-privacy-notice)[Terms Of Use](https://www.hearst.com/-/us-magazines-terms-of-use)
[Skip to Content](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/#main-content)
[sign in](https://www.countryliving.com/auth/csrf?action=login&return_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.countryliving.com%2Fhome-maintenance%2Fcleaning%2Fa29789305%2Fhow-to-clean-washing-machine%2F)
[Subscribe](https://shop.countryliving.com/country-living-all-access-membership-2999.html?cds_tracking_code=clg_topnav)
[](https://www.countryliving.com/)
[sign in](https://www.countryliving.com/auth/csrf?action=login&return_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.countryliving.com%2Fhome-maintenance%2Fcleaning%2Fa29789305%2Fhow-to-clean-washing-machine%2F)
[Subscribe](https://shop.countryliving.com/country-living-all-access-membership-2999.html?cds_tracking_code=clg_topnav)
[](https://www.countryliving.com/search/)
[](https://www.countryliving.com/)
- [Homes](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/)
- [Gardening and Outdoors](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/)
- [Antiques and Collectibles](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/)
- [Recipes](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/)
- [Entertainment News](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/)
- [Shopping](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/)
- [About Us](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/)
- [Crafts and DIY](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/)
- [Travel](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/)
- [Pets](https://www.countryliving.com/pet-care-ideas/)
- [My Bookmarks](https://www.countryliving.com/my-stuff)
- [Newsletter](https://www.countryliving.com/email/countryliving-newsletter)
- [US](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/)
- [Privacy Notice](https://www.hearst.com/-/us-magazines-privacy-notice)[Terms Of Use](https://www.hearst.com/-/us-magazines-terms-of-use)
[](https://x.com/countryliving)
[](https://www.youtube.com/c/CountryLiving?sub_confirmation=1)
[](https://www.facebook.com/CountryLiving)
[](https://instagram.com/countrylivingmag/)
[](http://www.pinterest.com/countryliving/?auto_follow=1)
[sign in](https://www.countryliving.com/auth/csrf?action=login&return_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.countryliving.com%2Fhome-maintenance%2Fcleaning%2Fa29789305%2Fhow-to-clean-washing-machine%2F)
[Subscribe](https://shop.countryliving.com/country-living-all-access-membership-2999.html?cds_tracking_code=clg_topnav)
- [Homes](https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/)
- [Gardening and Outdoors](https://www.countryliving.com/gardening/)
- [Antiques and Collectibles](https://www.countryliving.com/shopping/antiques/)
- [Recipes](https://www.countryliving.com/food-drinks/)
- [Entertainment News](https://www.countryliving.com/life/entertainment/)
- [Shopping](https://www.countryliving.com/shopping/)
- [About Us](https://www.countryliving.com/about/a3561/about-us/)
- [Crafts and DIY](https://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/)
- [Travel](https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/)
- [Pets](https://www.countryliving.com/pet-care-ideas/)
- [More](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/)
1. [Home Maintenance](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/)
2. [Cleaning Tips](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/)
3. [How to Clean a Washing Machine the Right Way](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/)
# How to Clean a Washing Machine the Right Way
Here's how you can take your washer from grimy to glistening with nontoxic ingredients.
Published: Nov 22, 2019
2
TanyaRozhnovskaya
Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. [Why Trust Us?](https://www.countryliving.com/about/a707/contact-us/)
We often assume that our appliances are somehow cleaning themselves at all times. Wrong. You gotta [clean that dishwasher](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a27471775/how-to-clean-dishwasher/). Your [iron needs some serious TLC](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29643257/how-to-clean-an-iron/). Even that self-[cleaning oven](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29247316/how-to-clean-oven/) might need a little elbow grease to keep it sparkling. Because the fact of the matter is all that dirt and grime has to go somewhere. It doesn't just magically disappear! This also applies to your clothing washer: Built-up stuff can prevent your clothes from getting clean. Luckily, there are a few tried-and-true natural products and methods that will help make your washer pristine.
## How often should I clean my washing machine?
It's recommended that you clean your washing machine at least every six months. Some even recommend bi-weekly or monthly cleanings if your washer sees heavy traffic (see: every family with children). Cleaning on the regular will not only keep your clothes cleaner, it will also help your machine be more efficient and effective as well. While there are quite a few name-brand products on the market that are made to clean your washer, you can save money and time by just using things you already have on-hand.
## **What you need to clean your washing machine:**
**• 2 to 4 cups vinegar:** Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and safer than harsher chemicals like bleach that may discolor clothing and irritate skin.
**• 1 package baking soda:** This will act as a type of scrubber, loosening up any bits of grime that are caked up on the walls of the drum.
**• Toothbrush:** It will help you get into all the nooks and crannies of your machine, as well as being very helpful in cleaning out your filter.
**• Essential oils *(optional)*:** Put a few drops of your favorite essential oil into your vinegar to soften the odor during cleaning. We recommend lavender or tea tree oil, as they both have disinfectant properties.
**• Microfiber cloths:** These handy sheets will pick up any hair or grime that have built up on your gasket and door/lid—they're also great for giving your whole machine a wipe down when you’re all done.
## **How to clean a front loading washing machine**
**Step 1:** Using a microfiber cloth, toothbrush, and a mild vinegar solution (1/4 cup vinegar in 1 quart of water), clean out around and inside the rubber gasket just inside your washer's door, making sure to collect any hair or gunk that has gathered inside. Wipe down the inside of the door.
[](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/&description=countryliving&media=https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine-03-1573680524.jpg?resize=1600:*)
Lazy\_Bear
Mold and mildew can easily hide inside your front loader’s rubber gasket.
**Step 2:** Pour 1 box of baking soda directly into the wash drum, then run washer on the longest and hottest setting (or the "Cleaning" setting, if you have it).
**Step 3:** For the next wash add 2 cups of vinegar into the detergent dispenser (and 5 to 10 drops of essential oils, if desired), and run it on the longest and hottest cycle. This will help wash away any extra grime loosened by the baking soda.
**Step 4 *(optional):*** Do an extra rinse just to get rid of any residual vinegar smell.
[OxiClean OxiClean Washing Machine Cleaner](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UASJMG0?tag=countryliving_auto-append-20)
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UASJMG0?tag=countryliving_auto-append-20)
Now 37% Off
[~~\$9~~ \$6Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UASJMG0?tag=countryliving_auto-append-20)
**Step 5:** Using your cloths and toothbrush, soak and clean out the detergent dispenser in your vinegar solution and wipe down the outside of your whole machine.
**Step 6:** Finally, locate your filter—it's usually a small door on the lower front of your machine. Before taking out the filter, place a towel and shallow tray underneath the opening as there will be a good bit of extra water that will come out with the filter. Remove the filter and pull out any hair or extra items (coins, bobby pins) that have collected in it and clean it under hot water with the toothbrush. Return the filter back to your machine.
[](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/&description=countryliving&media=https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine-02-1573680681.jpg?resize=1600:*)
darak77
## **How to clean a top loading washing machine**
**Step 1:** Pour 1 box of baking soda directly into the wash drum, then run washer on the longest and hottest setting. Fill the washer with water and open lid, letting it sit and soak for an hour. After an hour, close the lid and let it finish the cycle.
[Eco-Gals Eco Swirlz Washing Machine Cleaner](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QM9P521?tag=countryliving_auto-append-20)
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QM9P521?tag=countryliving_auto-append-20)
Now 27% Off
[~~\$22~~ \$16Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QM9P521?tag=countryliving_auto-append-20)
**Step 2:** Start another empty load on the longest and hottest setting, and as the washer is filling up with water, add a quart of vinegar (and 10 to 15 drops of essential oil if desired) and let it agitate for a minute. Open the lid and let it sit for an hour.
**Step 3:** While it gets its soak on, clean the rest of the parts of your machine with your cloths and toothbrush and vinegar solution—soap dispenser, agitator, lid, rubber gasket, and other hard-to-reach places\!
**Step 4:** Close the lid and finish the remainder of the wash cycle.
**Step 5:** Finally, wipe off any residue with your vinegar solution inside the drum and wipe down the outside of the machine.
***For both methods:*** After all the TLC you’ve given your machine, keep it fresh by remembering to leave the door or lid open when not using. This will keep it dry and free from any excess mildew or mold.
Watch Next
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
## [How to Clean Almost Anything in Your Home](https://www.countryliving.com/how-to-clean/)
[Try These Steps to Get Rid of Fruit Flies for Good Here's what to do to cut down on fruit flies, no fancy traps or sprays necessary\!](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a27284947/how-to-get-rid-of-fruit-flies/)
[The Right Way to Clean Your Dishwasher Here's how to keep your dishwasher in shipshape.](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a27471775/how-to-clean-dishwasher/)
[How Often Should I Clean My Hummingbird Feeder? Hummingbird fans, follow these guidelines to ensure you’re providing your favorite backyard visitors with a clean, safe food source.](https://www.countryliving.com/gardening/garden-ideas/a64747369/clean-hummingbird-feeder-guide/)
[How to Get Rid of Gnats Once and for All Take down those tiny bugs for good with these simple steps.](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/g27683756/how-to-get-rid-of-gnats/)
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
[How to Get Rid of Houseflies ASAP The swatter may not be enough.](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a32858803/how-to-get-rid-house-flies/)
[Why Every House Needs a Cinderella Broom Plus: 10 more finds that'll make your tasks less tedious.](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/g64071795/spring-cleaning-must-haves/)
[How to Clean Any Leather Item Follow our easy solutions for keeping leather items in tip-top shape.](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a30360397/how-to-clean-leather/)
[How to Clean Walls So They Sparkle Goodbye, dust and grime\!](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a30435503/how-to-clean-walls/)
[The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist Because a clean house feels so good. ✨](https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g1314/spring-cleaning-checklist/)
[45+ Brilliant Back-to-School Organization Ideas Simplify your morning routine and keep your kid's school supplies in order with these A+ tips for parents.](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/organization/g40838951/back-to-school-prep/)
[How to Clean Your Oven We've cooked up some great solutions for cleaning your oven\!](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29247316/how-to-clean-oven/)
[25 Best Shoe Storage Ideas These are brilliantly efficient.](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/organization/g43048401/best-shoe-storage-ideas/)
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
[](https://www.countryliving.com/)
[](https://x.com/countryliving)
[](https://www.youtube.com/c/CountryLiving?sub_confirmation=1)
[](https://www.facebook.com/CountryLiving)
[](https://instagram.com/countrylivingmag/)
[](http://www.pinterest.com/countryliving/?auto_follow=1)
[Newsletter](https://countryliving.com/email/countryliving-newsletter)[About Us](https://www.countryliving.com/about/a3561/about-us/)[Media Kit](http://www.clmediakit.com/r5/home.asp)[Press Room](https://www.hearst.com/newsroom)[Contact Us](https://www.countryliving.com/about/a707/contact-us/)[Community Guidelines](https://www.countryliving.com/about/a29188/community-guidelines/)[Advertise Online](https://www.countryliving.com/about/a29190/advertise-online/)[Customer Service](https://www.countryliving.com/service)[Subscribe](https://shop.countryliving.com/country-living-all-access-membership-2999.html?cds_tracking_code=clg_footer)[Turn Off Web Notifications](https://www.countryliving.com/about/a62668982/how-to-turn-off-web-notifications/)[Events and Promotions](https://www.countryliving.com/promotions/)
A Part of Hearst Digital Media
We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back.
©2026 Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
[Privacy Notice](https://www.hearst.com/-/us-magazines-privacy-notice)[CA Notice at Collection](https://www.hearst.com/-/us-magazines-privacy-notice#_ADDITIONAL_INFO)[Your CA Privacy Rights/Shine the Light](https://www.hearst.com/-/us-magazines-privacy-notice#_ADDITIONAL_INFO)[DAA Industry Opt Out](https://www.hearst.com/-/us-magazines-privacy-notice#_OPT_OUTS)[Terms of Use](https://www.hearst.com/-/us-magazines-terms-of-use)[Site Map](https://www.countryliving.com/sitemap/)
[Cookies Choices](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/ "Cookies Choices") |
| Readable Markdown | We often assume that our appliances are somehow cleaning themselves at all times. Wrong. You gotta [clean that dishwasher](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a27471775/how-to-clean-dishwasher/). Your [iron needs some serious TLC](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29643257/how-to-clean-an-iron/). Even that self-[cleaning oven](https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29247316/how-to-clean-oven/) might need a little elbow grease to keep it sparkling. Because the fact of the matter is all that dirt and grime has to go somewhere. It doesn't just magically disappear! This also applies to your clothing washer: Built-up stuff can prevent your clothes from getting clean. Luckily, there are a few tried-and-true natural products and methods that will help make your washer pristine.
## How often should I clean my washing machine?
It's recommended that you clean your washing machine at least every six months. Some even recommend bi-weekly or monthly cleanings if your washer sees heavy traffic (see: every family with children). Cleaning on the regular will not only keep your clothes cleaner, it will also help your machine be more efficient and effective as well. While there are quite a few name-brand products on the market that are made to clean your washer, you can save money and time by just using things you already have on-hand.
## **What you need to clean your washing machine:**
**• 2 to 4 cups vinegar:** Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and safer than harsher chemicals like bleach that may discolor clothing and irritate skin.
**• 1 package baking soda:** This will act as a type of scrubber, loosening up any bits of grime that are caked up on the walls of the drum.
**• Toothbrush:** It will help you get into all the nooks and crannies of your machine, as well as being very helpful in cleaning out your filter.
**• Essential oils *(optional)*:** Put a few drops of your favorite essential oil into your vinegar to soften the odor during cleaning. We recommend lavender or tea tree oil, as they both have disinfectant properties.
**• Microfiber cloths:** These handy sheets will pick up any hair or grime that have built up on your gasket and door/lid—they're also great for giving your whole machine a wipe down when you’re all done.
## **How to clean a front loading washing machine**
**Step 1:** Using a microfiber cloth, toothbrush, and a mild vinegar solution (1/4 cup vinegar in 1 quart of water), clean out around and inside the rubber gasket just inside your washer's door, making sure to collect any hair or gunk that has gathered inside. Wipe down the inside of the door.
[](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/&description=countryliving&media=https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine-03-1573680524.jpg?resize=1600:*)
Lazy\_Bear
Mold and mildew can easily hide inside your front loader’s rubber gasket.
**Step 2:** Pour 1 box of baking soda directly into the wash drum, then run washer on the longest and hottest setting (or the "Cleaning" setting, if you have it).
**Step 3:** For the next wash add 2 cups of vinegar into the detergent dispenser (and 5 to 10 drops of essential oils, if desired), and run it on the longest and hottest cycle. This will help wash away any extra grime loosened by the baking soda.
**Step 4 *(optional):*** Do an extra rinse just to get rid of any residual vinegar smell.
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UASJMG0?tag=countryliving_auto-append-20)
Now 37% Off
**Step 5:** Using your cloths and toothbrush, soak and clean out the detergent dispenser in your vinegar solution and wipe down the outside of your whole machine.
**Step 6:** Finally, locate your filter—it's usually a small door on the lower front of your machine. Before taking out the filter, place a towel and shallow tray underneath the opening as there will be a good bit of extra water that will come out with the filter. Remove the filter and pull out any hair or extra items (coins, bobby pins) that have collected in it and clean it under hot water with the toothbrush. Return the filter back to your machine.
[](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/&description=countryliving&media=https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine-02-1573680681.jpg?resize=1600:*)
darak77
## **How to clean a top loading washing machine**
**Step 1:** Pour 1 box of baking soda directly into the wash drum, then run washer on the longest and hottest setting. Fill the washer with water and open lid, letting it sit and soak for an hour. After an hour, close the lid and let it finish the cycle.
[](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QM9P521?tag=countryliving_auto-append-20)
Now 27% Off
**Step 2:** Start another empty load on the longest and hottest setting, and as the washer is filling up with water, add a quart of vinegar (and 10 to 15 drops of essential oil if desired) and let it agitate for a minute. Open the lid and let it sit for an hour.
**Step 3:** While it gets its soak on, clean the rest of the parts of your machine with your cloths and toothbrush and vinegar solution—soap dispenser, agitator, lid, rubber gasket, and other hard-to-reach places\!
**Step 4:** Close the lid and finish the remainder of the wash cycle.
**Step 5:** Finally, wipe off any residue with your vinegar solution inside the drum and wipe down the outside of the machine.
***For both methods:*** After all the TLC you’ve given your machine, keep it fresh by remembering to leave the door or lid open when not using. This will keep it dry and free from any excess mildew or mold. |
| Shard | 37 (laksa) |
| Root Hash | 9449831723465309637 |
| Unparsed URL | com,countryliving!www,/home-maintenance/cleaning/a29789305/how-to-clean-washing-machine/ s443 |