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 | 2.1 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.lowes.com/n/how-to/clean-washing-machine |
| Last Crawled | 2026-02-04 13:45:52 (2 months ago) |
| First Indexed | not set |
| HTTP Status Code | 200 |
| Meta Title | How to Clean a Washing Machine |
| Meta Description | Clean your washing machine on a regular basis to help it work properly. Learn some tips to keep your washing machine looking, and working, like new. |
| Meta Canonical | null |
| Boilerpipe Text | Recommended For Your Project
Choose a Washing Machine Cleaner
Caution
Never mix bleach and vinegar. Always choose one or the other.
Cleaning a Front-Loading vs. Top-Loading Washing Machines
Quickly wipe the outside of your washing machine with a damp rag to get rid of any laundry detergent spills and make it shine like new. Wipe down the control panel and around any knobs on the outside of your washer. Excess buildup around these components can prevent them from functioning properly.
Do the same inside your washing machine. Use your preferred cleaner and give everything, including the drum and the door a good wipe.
If your machine has any removable drawers or dispensers, clean them by taking them out of the machine and soaking them in hot water or a vinegar solution. Gently scrub them to remove any stains or mildew. Thoroughly rinse and dry before returning them to the machine.
The large rubber ring around the door of your washing machine is called a gasket, and can trap residue and buildup. Spray it with cleaner and wipe away any surface residue. For more stubborn debris or gunk, scrub the gasket with a soft bristle brush or a sponge. Check inside the folds of the gasket for any mold or mildew.
Most washers have a special drum-clean cycle, but if yours doesn’t, run a wash on the hottest setting while the machine is empty. Run a second cycle with just water or with 1/2 cup of baking soda added directly in the drum to remove excess residue from the walls.
If your washer has a soak cycle, fill the tub with the hottest water available. If not, set the machine to run its hottest cycle, then pause the machine and let your cleaning solution of choice soak in the drum for an hour. After an hour, turn the machine on and allow the cleaning cycle to run. Keep the door of your washing machine open for at least an hour to let the drum dry completely.
Tips for Maintaining Your Washing Machine
To keep your machine running like new, here are some tips to keep in mind along with your seasonal cleaning regimen:
Don’t add additional detergent to particularly soiled loads of laundry, as this can cause more residue to build up inside your machine. Check your machine’s manual and consider running a sanitize cycle if your laundry needs extra cleaning.
Don’t overload the washer — this prevents it from properly washing what you’ve put in there.
Keep the door open when it’s not in use to air out your machine — just be mindful of children or pets around it.
Check the clothes pockets to avoid running items through the washer that could damage the inside of the drum.
Wipe down your machine regularly in between deep cleans.
With a little extra care and attention, your washing machine will keep your clothes and linens fresh and clean for years to come.
Recommended For Your Project |
| Markdown | Skip to main content
[Share the love this Valentine’s Day with gifts and décor. Shop Now \>](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Valentines-day/2210525396895?int_cmp=Home%A1:NoDivision%25Other:FW52_25_VALENTINES_GLOBAL)
[Lowe's Credit Center](https://www.lowes.com/l/Credit)[Order Status](https://www.lowes.com/mylowes/orders)[Weekly Ad](https://www.lowes.com/weekly-ad)[Lowe's PRO](https://www.lowes.com/l/Pro)
Menu
[Link to Lowe's Home Improvement Home Page](https://www.lowes.com/ "Link to Lowe's Home Improvement Home Page")
MyLowesSign In
##### Sign in or [create an account]()
Get \$5 off\* when you join
Earn points on eligible purchases
FREE shipping with Silver Key status\*
Sign In
[Cart with 0 itemsCart]("Cart Count")
[Shop All]()
[Appliances]()
[Bathroom]()
[Building Supplies]()
[Doors & Windows]()
[Flooring]()
[Lawn & Garden]()
[Lighting]()
[Tools]()
[Plumbing]()
[Outdoor]()
[Valentine’s Day](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Valentines-day/2210525396895)
[Find a Store Near Me](https://www.lowes.com/store/)
## Deals by Department
[Shop All](https://www.lowes.com/l/savings)
- [Appliances](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294937007)
- [Bathroom](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294737305)
- [Building Supplies](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294934297)
- [Flooring](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294934373)
- [Home Décor](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294935484)
- [Lawn & Garden](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=1011552124422)
- [Lighting & Ceiling Fans](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294935637)
- [Outdoors](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294612886)
- [Paint](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294729418)
- [Tools](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Deals/1611079983848?catalog=4294936478)
## Don't Miss These Deals

[Shop Now](https://www.lowes.com/l/savings/bathroom-savings)

[Shop Now](https://www.lowes.com/l/savings/daily-deals)
## More Ways to Save
[Member Deals](https://www.lowes.com/mylowes/profile/wallet/promotions)
[Clearance](https://www.lowes.com/pl/The-back-aisle/2021454685607?refinement=2)
[Weekly Ad](https://www.lowes.com/weekly-ad)
Design
Get Inspired
[Kitchen Ideas](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/kitchen-ideas)[Shop by Room](https://www.lowes.com/shopbyroom/bestseller)
Visualize
[Flooring Visualizer](https://www.lowes.com/room-visualizer)[Blinds Visualizer](https://www.lowes.com/home-visualizers/blinds)[Paint Visualizer](https://www.lowes.com/c/paint)
Plan
[Projects](https://www.lowes.com/mylowes/projects)
DIY & Ideas
[View All DIY Projects & Ideas](https://www.lowes.com/diy-projects-and-ideas)
- [Buying Guides](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/buying-guide)
- [Calculators](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/calculators)
- [Home Maintenance & Inspiration](https://www.lowes.com/l/savings/lowes-events-inspiration)
- [Gift Ideas](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/gift-ideas)
- [How-Tos](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/how-to)
- [Project Center](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/ideas-inspiration)
- [Project Videos](https://www.lowes.com/nl/videos)
[](https://www.lowes.com/diy-projects-and-ideas)
Ideas
[Appliances](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/appliances)[Bathroom](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/bathroom%09)[Flooring](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/flooring)[Kitchen](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/kitchen%09)[Lawn & Garden](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/lawn-garden%09)[Outdoor Living](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/outdoor-living%09)[Paint](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/paint)
Shop
Installation & Services
Deals
Design & Ideas
[Shop By Room](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/shop-by-room)
[Order Status](https://www.lowes.com/mylowes/orders)
[Weekly Ad](https://www.lowes.com/weekly-ad)
[Find a Store](https://www.lowes.com/store/)
[Gift Cards](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/gift-cards)
[Lowe’s Credit Center](https://www.lowes.com/l/Credit)
[MyLowe’s Pro Rewards](https://www.lowes.com/l/Pro)
Make Project Planning Easier.
Download our mobile app.
[](https://lowes.app.link/lmh25 "Download from AppStore")[](https://lowes.app.link/lmh25 "Download from PlayStore")
Prices, Promotions, styles, and availability may vary. Our local stores do not honor online pricing. Prices and availability of products and services are subject to change without notice. Errors will be corrected where discovered, and Lowe's reserves the right to revoke any stated offer and to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions including after an order has been submitted.
1. [Home](https://www.lowes.com/)
2. [DIY Projects & Ideas](https://www.lowes.com/diy-projects-and-ideas)
3. [How-Tos](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/how-to)
4. [Cleaning](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/how-to/cleaning)
# How to Clean a Washing Machine

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Updated December 18, 2023
Your washing machine is a hard-working appliance and needs regular care to keep it performing properly. No matter what kind of washing machine you have, grime builds up inside over time. Learn how to disinfect your washing machine so your clothes consistently come out clean.
Skill
Beginner
Time
Few Hours

### Table of Contents
- [Choose a Washing Machine Cleaner](https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/clean-washing-machine#ChooseaWashingMachineCleaner)
- [Cleaning a Front-Loading vs. Top-Loading Washing Machines](https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/clean-washing-machine#CleaningaFront-Loadingvs.Top-LoadingWashingMachines)
- [Tips for Maintaining Your Washing Machine](https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/clean-washing-machine#TipsforMaintainingYourWashingMachine)
### Recommended For Your Project
[affresh6 Count Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets2339](https://www.lowes.com/pd/affresh-6-Pack-8-4-oz-Washing-Machine-Cleaner-Tablets/50088596)
[Rubbermaid50 -Pack Microfiber Cloth497](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Rubbermaid-NEW-50PK-MF-QP-12x12/5014195313)
[Kobalt18 -Piece 8-in Magnetic Screwdriver Set386](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-18-Piece-Plastic-Handle-Magnetic-Assorted-Screwdriver-Set/5013732097)
[Project SourceOne size fits all 100 -Count Textured -Grip Food Grade Nitrile Disposable cleaning gloves 50 -Pairs162](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Project-Source-One-size-fits-all-100-Count-Textured-Grip-Food-Grade-Nitrile-Disposable-cleaning-gloves-50-Pairs/5014118467)
[Lowe's5-gallon BPA-Free Plastic General bucket856](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Encore-Plastics-5-Gallon-General-Bucket/3083565)
[Arm & HammerFRIDGE FRESH 4 -oz Dispenser Air Freshener148](https://www.lowes.com/pd/ARM-HAMMER-Odor-Eliminators-Air-Freshener/3078217)
[Project SourcePoly fiber Soft General wash brush92](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Project-Source-Poly-Fiber-Soft-General-Wash-Brush/5014195381)
[KobaltAdjustable Wrench Set 3 -Piece147](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-3-pc-Adjustable-Wrench-Set/50029428)
[CloroxConcentrated Disinfecting Regular 81 Fluid ounce(s) Household Bleach2048](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Clorox-Clorox-8482-Disinfecting-Bleach-Regular-81-Oun/1002323528)
[3MChemical Splash/Impact Plastic Anti-Fog Safety Goggles263](https://www.lowes.com/pd/3M-Goggle-Plastic-Anti-Fog-Safety-Goggles/5002133303)
[3MRespirator White N95 Multi-Purpose Valved Respirator 2 -Pack19](https://www.lowes.com/pd/3M-2-Pack-Disposable-Sanding-and-Fiberglass-Valved-Safety-Mask/1002710118)
## Choose a Washing Machine Cleaner
![A person adding a cleaning agent to the washing machine.]()
Selecting a cleaner for a front-load washing machine or a top-load washing machine comes down to personal preference. Certain brands offer [tablets, powders or liquids](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Washing-machine-cleaners-Appliance-cleaners-Cleaning-supplies/4294598988 "/pl/Washing-machine-cleaners-Appliance-cleaners-Cleaning-supplies/4294598988") specifically formulated for cleaning washing machine drums. You can also use bleach and water or if you prefer more natural cleaning products, go with white vinegar and baking soda.
It’s a common misconception that laundry detergent keeps your washing machine clean. Soap residue or minerals from detergent builds up in the drum and traps odors that can transfer to clothing or linens. The dirt the washing machine removes from your clothes can also linger, and eventually, mold or mildew may develop around the machine’s opening, especially if you have a front-loading washing machine.
Caution
Never mix bleach and vinegar. Always choose one or the other.
## Cleaning a Front-Loading vs. Top-Loading Washing Machines
![A top-load and a front-load washing machine.]()
You can clean your washing machine with the same products whether it’s a [top-load or front-load washing machine](https://www.lowes.com/n/buying-guide/front-top-load-washing-machine "/n/buying-guide/front-top-load-washing-machine"), but the cleaning steps that you follow may be slightly different. If your top-loading machine has an agitator, that part will also need to be cleaned.
Front-loading washers have a rubber gasket that creates a water-tight seal around the door, although some top-load washing machines have it too. This is a place where mold, mildew and dirt collect, so give it a good scrub.
It’s a good idea to deep clean your washing machine seasonally to keep it working optimally. Follow the steps below to disinfect your washing machine.
[Shop Top-Load Washers](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Top-load-washers-Washing-machines-Washers-dryers-Appliances/4294857976)
[Shop Front-Load Washers](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Front-load-washers-Washing-machines-Washers-dryers-Appliances/4294857975)
[Shop Stackable Washers](https://www.lowes.com/pl/Stackable--Washing-machines-Washers-dryers-Appliances/4294857977?refinement=4294791448)
### Wipe Down the Inside and Outside of Your Washing Machine
Quickly wipe the outside of your washing machine with a damp rag to get rid of any laundry detergent spills and make it shine like new. Wipe down the control panel and around any knobs on the outside of your washer. Excess buildup around these components can prevent them from functioning properly.
Do the same inside your washing machine. Use your preferred cleaner and give everything, including the drum and the door a good wipe.
### Clean the Washing Machine’s Removable Parts
![Detergent and softener drawer compartments of a washing machine.]()
If your machine has any removable drawers or dispensers, clean them by taking them out of the machine and soaking them in hot water or a vinegar solution. Gently scrub them to remove any stains or mildew. Thoroughly rinse and dry before returning them to the machine.
### Clean the Washing Machine Door Gasket
![A person cleaning the gasket of a washing machine door.]()
The large rubber ring around the door of your washing machine is called a gasket, and can trap residue and buildup. Spray it with cleaner and wipe away any surface residue. For more stubborn debris or gunk, scrub the gasket with a soft bristle brush or a sponge. Check inside the folds of the gasket for any mold or mildew.
### Run a Drum-Clean Cycle
Most washers have a special drum-clean cycle, but if yours doesn’t, run a wash on the hottest setting while the machine is empty. Run a second cycle with just water or with 1/2 cup of baking soda added directly in the drum to remove excess residue from the walls.
If your washer has a soak cycle, fill the tub with the hottest water available. If not, set the machine to run its hottest cycle, then pause the machine and let your cleaning solution of choice soak in the drum for an hour. After an hour, turn the machine on and allow the cleaning cycle to run. Keep the door of your washing machine open for at least an hour to let the drum dry completely.
## Tips for Maintaining Your Washing Machine
To keep your machine running like new, here are some tips to keep in mind along with your seasonal cleaning regimen:
- Don’t add additional detergent to particularly soiled loads of laundry, as this can cause more residue to build up inside your machine. Check your machine’s manual and consider running a sanitize cycle if your laundry needs extra cleaning.
- Don’t overload the washer — this prevents it from properly washing what you’ve put in there.
- Keep the door open when it’s not in use to air out your machine — just be mindful of children or pets around it.
- Check the clothes pockets to avoid running items through the washer that could damage the inside of the drum.
- Wipe down your machine regularly in between deep cleans.
With a little extra care and attention, your washing machine will keep your clothes and linens fresh and clean for years to come.
### Recommended For Your Project
[affresh6 Count Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets2339](https://www.lowes.com/pd/affresh-6-Pack-8-4-oz-Washing-Machine-Cleaner-Tablets/50088596)
[Rubbermaid50 -Pack Microfiber Cloth497](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Rubbermaid-NEW-50PK-MF-QP-12x12/5014195313)
[Kobalt18 -Piece 8-in Magnetic Screwdriver Set386](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-18-Piece-Plastic-Handle-Magnetic-Assorted-Screwdriver-Set/5013732097)
[Project SourceOne size fits all 100 -Count Textured -Grip Food Grade Nitrile Disposable cleaning gloves 50 -Pairs162](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Project-Source-One-size-fits-all-100-Count-Textured-Grip-Food-Grade-Nitrile-Disposable-cleaning-gloves-50-Pairs/5014118467)
[Lowe's5-gallon BPA-Free Plastic General bucket856](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Encore-Plastics-5-Gallon-General-Bucket/3083565)
[Arm & HammerFRIDGE FRESH 4 -oz Dispenser Air Freshener148](https://www.lowes.com/pd/ARM-HAMMER-Odor-Eliminators-Air-Freshener/3078217)
[Project SourcePoly fiber Soft General wash brush92](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Project-Source-Poly-Fiber-Soft-General-Wash-Brush/5014195381)
[KobaltAdjustable Wrench Set 3 -Piece147](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-3-pc-Adjustable-Wrench-Set/50029428)
[CloroxConcentrated Disinfecting Regular 81 Fluid ounce(s) Household Bleach2048](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Clorox-Clorox-8482-Disinfecting-Bleach-Regular-81-Oun/1002323528)
[3MChemical Splash/Impact Plastic Anti-Fog Safety Goggles263](https://www.lowes.com/pd/3M-Goggle-Plastic-Anti-Fog-Safety-Goggles/5002133303)
[3MRespirator White N95 Multi-Purpose Valved Respirator 2 -Pack19](https://www.lowes.com/pd/3M-2-Pack-Disposable-Sanding-and-Fiberglass-Valved-Safety-Mask/1002710118)
##### Related Tags:
- [Cleaning](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/cleaning)
- [Appliances](https://www.lowes.com/nl/diy-projects-and-ideas/t/appliances)
## Related Articles
[![]() Buying Guides What Is a High-Efficiency Washer?](https://www.lowes.com/n/buying-guide/what-is-high-efficiency-washer)
[![A split image with a front-load washer on one side and a top-load washer on the other side. ]() Buying Guides Front-Load Washer vs. Top-Load Washer: Which is Best for Me?](https://www.lowes.com/n/buying-guide/front-top-load-washing-machine)
[![ ]() Buying Guides Washing Machine Common Parts Buying Guide](https://www.lowes.com/n/buying-guide/washing-machine-common-parts)
[ How-Tos How to Measure For a New Washer and Dryer](https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/measure-a-washer-and-dryer)
Back to Top
- [Ask Mylow](https://www.lowes.com/ai "Ask Mylow")
- [Help Center](https://www.lowes.com/l/help "Help Center")
- [Order Status](https://www.lowes.com/mylowes/orders/checkorderstatus "Order Status")
- [Lowe's Credit Center](https://www.lowes.com/l/Credit "Lowe's Credit Center")
- [Gift Cards](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/gift-cards "Gift Cards")
- [Installation Services](https://www.lowes.com/l/install "Installation Services")
- [Lowe's App](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/download-apps "Lowe's App")
about lowe's
- [Who We Are](https://corporate.lowes.com/who-we-are)
- [Careers](https://corporate.lowes.com/careers/)
- [Our Responsibilities](https://corporate.lowes.com/our-responsibilities)
- [Investors](https://corporate.lowes.com/investors)
- [Newsroom](https://corporate.lowes.com/newsroom)
- [Lowe's Suppliers](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/suppliers)
- [Safety Unites Us](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/safe)
- [Lowe’s Creators](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/lowes-creator)
- [Lowe’s Brands](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/lowes-brands)
- [Lowe’s Marketplace](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/lowes-marketplace)
stores & services
- [Find a Store](https://www.lowes.com/store/)
- [Store Directory](https://www.lowes.com/Lowes-Stores)
- [Brand Directory](https://www.lowes.com/b/lowesbrands)
- [Store Services](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/store-services)
- [Subscriptions](https://www.lowes.com/subscriptions)
- [DIY Workshops](https://www.lowes.com/diy-projects-and-ideas/workshops)
- [MyLowe’s Rewards Program](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/mylowes-rewards)
- [Resources for Pros](https://www.lowes.com/l/Pro/resources-for-pros)
- [MyLowe’s Pro Rewards Program](https://www.lowes.com/l/Pro/pro-benefits)
- [Site Directory](https://www.lowes.com/c/Departments)
- [Best Sellers](https://www.lowes.com/best-sellers)
- [Lowe’s Rental](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/rental)
customer service
- [Help Center](https://www.lowes.com/l/help)
- [Rebates](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/rebate-center)
- [Returns & Exchanges](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/returns-policy)
- [Pickup, Shipping & Delivery](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/shipping-delivery)
- [Special Orders](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/special-orders)
- [Recalls & Product Safety](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/recalls-and-product-safety)
- [Protection Plans](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/lowes-protection-plan)
- [Military Discount](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/honor-our-military)
- [Coupons](https://www.lowes.com/l/savings/coupons)
privacy & use
- [Terms](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/terms-and-conditions-of-use)
- [Privacy Statement](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement)
- [Interest-Based Ads](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#OtherImportantConsiderations)
- [CA Privacy Rights](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#YourPrivacyRightUndertheCaliforniaShinetheLightAct)
- [Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#HowtoSubmitPrivacyRequest\(s\))
- [Limit the Use of My Sensitive Personal Information](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#HowtoSubmitPrivacyRequest\(s\))
- [Notice of Financial Incentive/Loyalty Programs](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#NoticeofFinancialIncentivePrograms/LoyaltyProgramsDisclosures)
### connect with us
### About Lowe's
- [Who We Are](https://corporate.lowes.com/who-we-are)
- [Careers](https://corporate.lowes.com/careers/)
- [Our Responsibilities](https://corporate.lowes.com/our-responsibilities)
- [Investors](https://corporate.lowes.com/investors)
- [Newsroom](https://corporate.lowes.com/newsroom)
- [Lowe's Suppliers](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/suppliers)
- [Safety Unites Us](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/safe)
- [Lowe’s Creators](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/lowes-creator)
- [Lowe’s Brands](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/lowes-brands)
- [Lowe’s Marketplace](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/lowes-marketplace)
### Stores & Services
- [Find a Store](https://www.lowes.com/store/)
- [Store Directory](https://www.lowes.com/Lowes-Stores)
- [Brand Directory](https://www.lowes.com/b/lowesbrands)
- [Store Services](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/store-services)
- [Subscriptions](https://www.lowes.com/subscriptions)
- [DIY Workshops](https://www.lowes.com/diy-projects-and-ideas/workshops)
- [MyLowe’s Rewards Program](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/mylowes-rewards)
- [Resources for Pros](https://www.lowes.com/l/Pro/resources-for-pros)
- [MyLowe’s Pro Rewards Program](https://www.lowes.com/l/Pro/pro-benefits)
- [Site Directory](https://www.lowes.com/c/Departments)
- [Best Sellers](https://www.lowes.com/best-sellers)
- [Lowe’s Rental](https://www.lowes.com/l/shop/rental)
### Customer Service
- [Help Center](https://www.lowes.com/l/help)
- [Rebates](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/rebate-center)
- [Returns & Exchanges](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/returns-policy)
- [Pickup, Shipping & Delivery](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/shipping-delivery)
- [Special Orders](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/special-orders)
- [Recalls & Product Safety](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/recalls-and-product-safety)
- [Protection Plans](https://www.lowes.com/l/help/lowes-protection-plan)
- [Military Discount](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/honor-our-military)
- [Coupons](https://www.lowes.com/l/savings/coupons)
### CONNECT WITH US
### Privacy & Use
- [Terms](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/terms-and-conditions-of-use)
- [Privacy Statement](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement)
- [Interest-Based Ads](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#OtherImportantConsiderations)
- [CA Privacy Rights](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#YourPrivacyRightUndertheCaliforniaShinetheLightAct)
- [Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#HowtoSubmitPrivacyRequest\(s\))
- [Limit the Use of My Sensitive Personal Information](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#HowtoSubmitPrivacyRequest\(s\))
- [Notice of Financial Incentive/Loyalty Programs](https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement#NoticeofFinancialIncentivePrograms/LoyaltyProgramsDisclosures)
© 2026 Lowe's. All rights reserved. Lowe's and the Gable Mansard Design are registered trademarks of LF, LLC. |
| Readable Markdown | Recommended For Your Project
## Choose a Washing Machine Cleaner
Caution
Never mix bleach and vinegar. Always choose one or the other.
## Cleaning a Front-Loading vs. Top-Loading Washing Machines
Quickly wipe the outside of your washing machine with a damp rag to get rid of any laundry detergent spills and make it shine like new. Wipe down the control panel and around any knobs on the outside of your washer. Excess buildup around these components can prevent them from functioning properly.
Do the same inside your washing machine. Use your preferred cleaner and give everything, including the drum and the door a good wipe.
![Detergent and softener drawer compartments of a washing machine.]()
If your machine has any removable drawers or dispensers, clean them by taking them out of the machine and soaking them in hot water or a vinegar solution. Gently scrub them to remove any stains or mildew. Thoroughly rinse and dry before returning them to the machine.
![A person cleaning the gasket of a washing machine door.]()
The large rubber ring around the door of your washing machine is called a gasket, and can trap residue and buildup. Spray it with cleaner and wipe away any surface residue. For more stubborn debris or gunk, scrub the gasket with a soft bristle brush or a sponge. Check inside the folds of the gasket for any mold or mildew.
Most washers have a special drum-clean cycle, but if yours doesn’t, run a wash on the hottest setting while the machine is empty. Run a second cycle with just water or with 1/2 cup of baking soda added directly in the drum to remove excess residue from the walls.
If your washer has a soak cycle, fill the tub with the hottest water available. If not, set the machine to run its hottest cycle, then pause the machine and let your cleaning solution of choice soak in the drum for an hour. After an hour, turn the machine on and allow the cleaning cycle to run. Keep the door of your washing machine open for at least an hour to let the drum dry completely.
## Tips for Maintaining Your Washing Machine
To keep your machine running like new, here are some tips to keep in mind along with your seasonal cleaning regimen:
- Don’t add additional detergent to particularly soiled loads of laundry, as this can cause more residue to build up inside your machine. Check your machine’s manual and consider running a sanitize cycle if your laundry needs extra cleaning.
- Don’t overload the washer — this prevents it from properly washing what you’ve put in there.
- Keep the door open when it’s not in use to air out your machine — just be mindful of children or pets around it.
- Check the clothes pockets to avoid running items through the washer that could damage the inside of the drum.
- Wipe down your machine regularly in between deep cleans.
With a little extra care and attention, your washing machine will keep your clothes and linens fresh and clean for years to come.
Recommended For Your Project |
| Shard | 95 (laksa) |
| Root Hash | 6164224261578622295 |
| Unparsed URL | com,lowes!www,/n/how-to/clean-washing-machine s443 |