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[Skip to content](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#main-content) **[Grab our Crocktober Cookbook for half off\!](https://eatingonadime.samcart.com/products/crocktober-cookbook)** [One Crazy Mom](https://www.onecrazymom.com/) Search - [Browse By](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/) - [Holiday](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/holiday/) - [back to school](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/holiday/back-to-school/) - [Christmas](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/holiday/christmas/) - [Easter](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/holiday/easter/) - [Father’s Day](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/holiday/fathers-day/) - [4th of July](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/holiday/4th-of-july/) - [Halloween](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/holiday/halloween/) - [Mothers Day](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/holiday/mothers-day/) - [St Patrick’s Day](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/holiday/st-patricks-day/) - [Thanksgiving](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/holiday/thanksgiving/) - [Valentines day](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/holiday/valentines-day/) - [For Mom](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/for-mom/) - [For Home](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/for-home/) - [DIY](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/diy/) - [For Kids](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/for-kids/) - [Recipes](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/recipes/) - [Home](https://www.onecrazymom.com/) - [Contact](https://www.onecrazymom.com/contact/) - [My Cookbooks](https://eatingonadimecookbooks.com/sales-page1602714373699) - Search # How to Clean Washing Machine [Carrie Barnard](https://www.onecrazymom.com/author/carrie/) • Updated Jun 05, 2025 Learn **How to Clean Washing Machine** all naturally. We have *step by step instructions* to deep clean washing machine that will work for a front loading and top loading machine.  If you are trying to find out how to clean washing machine without all the chemicals, give this a try. We have easy step-by-step guide that will deep clean your washing machine. These tips and tricks will work for both top loading and front loading washing machines. Plus, everything is all natural! If you are noticing that your washing machine just isn’t smelling fresh, it is probably time to address the issue. I actually like to clean my machine once a month. For even more ways to keep your [home](https://www.onecrazymom.com/category/for-home/) clean, try these natural cleaning recipes – [The 5 Best Cleaning Supplies You need\!](https://www.onecrazymom.com/the-5-best-cleaning-supplies-you-need/), [Hydrogen Peroxide Cleaning ideas](https://www.onecrazymom.com/hydrogen-peroxide-cleaning-ideas/) and [Kitchen Cleaning Hacks](https://www.onecrazymom.com/kitchen-cleaning-hacks/). Also, try [25 Homemade Air Fresheners](https://www.onecrazymom.com/diy-air-fresheners/), [Homemade Dryer Sheets](https://www.onecrazymom.com/homemade-dryer-sheets-2/) and [Homemade Oven Cleaner (that really works!)](https://www.onecrazymom.com/homemade-oven-cleaner-that-really-works/) If you need a jump start, try [30 Day Declutter Challenge](https://www.onecrazymom.com/30-day-declutter-challenge/). I also make this simple [DIY All Purpose Cleaner](https://www.onecrazymom.com/diy-all-purpose-cleaner/), [DIY Disinfectant Spray](https://www.onecrazymom.com/diy-disinfectant-spray/) and learn [How to Clean a Microwave with Vinegar](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-microwave-with-vinegar/). You might also want to learn [How to Clean Pee Out of a Mattress](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-pee-out-of-a-mattress/) and [Easy Tips for Cleaning with Borax](https://www.onecrazymom.com/easy-frugal-tips-for-cleaning-with-borax/). ## What's in this post: How to Clean Washing Machine - [Why We Love Cleaning Our Washing Machine](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-why-we-love-cleaning-our-washing-machine) - [Ingredients to Clean Washing Machine](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-ingredients-to-clean-washing-machine) - [How to Clean Top-Loading Washing Machine](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-how-to-clean-top-loading-washing-machine) - [How to Clean Front Load Washing Machine](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-how-to-clean-front-load-washing-machine) - [How to Clean Washing Machine Rubber Door Seal](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-how-to-clean-washing-machine-rubber-door-seal) - [Expert Tips](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-expert-tips) - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-frequently-asked-questions) ## **Why We Love Cleaning Our Washing Machine** Once you see how simple and easy it is, you won’t mind doing this monthly. Plus, the ingredients are so inexpensive and easy to use for a sparkling clean washer machine. We love making our own cleaning solutions because it saves time, money and free from harsh chemicals. Also, it is just so nice to use natural products in our home. Also, learn [How to Clean Shower Head](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-shower-head/). ## **Ingredients to Clean Washing Machine**   - [**Vinegar**](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=tag=coupclos-20nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=vinegar) – Use White Distilled Vinegar or Cleaning Vinegar - [**Baking Soda**](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=tag=coupclos-20nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=baking+soda&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Abaking+soda) – Helps to remove grime and scum from the washing machine ## **How to Clean Top-Loading Washing Machine** - **Step 1 –** Fill your top load washer machine up with hot water and the largest load option on your washing machine. - **Step 2 –** Add one quart of distilled white [vinegar](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=tag=coupclos-20nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=vinegar) into the top-loading machine while it’s filling up with the water. - **Step 3 –** After it’s filled, close the lid on the top loader and allow the washing machine to run for 1 minute so that the vinegar is mixed up thoroughly with the water in the machine. - **Step 4 –** After the 1-2 minutes, stop the washing machine by opening the lid and allow the vinegar and water mixture to sit for a minimum of 1 hour. - **Step 5 –** While it’s soaking use this time to clean the other parts of the machine. The knobs, lib, seals, etc. I used a scrubbing brush and microfiber towel to clean these items and used the vinegar/water mixture in the machine. Just be careful to not close the lid during this time so the water doesn’t drain out of the machine. - **Step 6 –** After it has been a minimum of 1 hour, close the lid and allow the machine to finish its spin cycle. You can use this time to clean all the parts that you were not able to get to while the lid had to be open. - **Step 7 –** After this hot cycle is complete, run another normal washing cycle and add 1 cup of [baking soda](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=tag=coupclos-20nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=baking+soda&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Abaking+soda) to that cycle. That’s it. Your washing machine will smell and clean beautifully again. It is really that simple. I usually clean my machine once a month. I also try to keep my lid open after I have used it to make sure that it’s able to dry out completely to prevent a mildew smell build-up. ## **How to Clean Front Load Washing Machine** - **Step 1 –** Make sure that your front load washers machine is empty. I pour the cups of white [vinegar](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=tag=coupclos-20nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=vinegar) in the detergent tray on my machine and sprinkle 1 cup of [baking soda](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=tag=coupclos-20nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=baking+soda&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Abaking+soda) into the drum of the machine. - **Step 2 –** Then run a cycle with 2 cups of vinegar in it on the cleaning cycle or the largest, hottest cycle option that is available on your machine to rinse the machine. ## **How to Clean Washing Machine Rubber Door Seal** After the cycle has completed, I use a combination of water and vinegar to clean all the compartments, knobs, rubber seals, rubber gasket and the detergent tray on the machine. I even like to use a old toothbrush to scrub and ensure that all areas are clean from soap residue or leftover detergent. I clean mine approximately 1 a month. Also, I make sure that clothes are removed timely. It also helps to leave the door open slightly to prevent a mold and mildew smell from developing in the machine. It is so simple to clean your washing machine. For a layer of protection, you may need to wipe it down with liquid chlorine bleach. Make sure to check your washing machine appliance manual of this cleaning product to see if they approve.   ## Expert Tips - **Regular Cleaning –** You can easily use a washing machine tub cleaner regularly which is recommended as part of laundry routine. It helps to fight grime, bacteria and odors that you may not see or smell. - **Exterior Cleaning –** As part of my laundry routine, I like to wipe down the washing machine surface and agitators with a microfiber cloth. It easily collects soap scum, dusts, dirt, residue and grime buildup while doing the laundry. When I am doing towels, I like to wipe down the washing machine and then toss the towel in the batch to wash and dry. - **Detergent Dispenser and Washing Machine Filter –** Make sure to clean the laundry detergent compartment, dispenser drawers and fabric softeners dispensers to keep them from getting clogged. I like to do this weekly with hot water and vinegar to keep things fresh. We also like to clean the filter from lint and small objects. Your washing machine manual will show you where the filter is located. Run the filter under hot water and then place back into the washing machine to keep everything fresh. ## Frequently Asked Questions **How Often Should I Clean Washing Machine?** Try to do this monthly and you won’t ever having problems with your washing machine smelling yucky. This really helps to eliminate odors and keeps everything nice and fresh. You can even use a washing machine cleaners like Affresh Cleaning Tablets to easily clean. ****How Do You Clean a Smelly Washing Machine?**** This does a great job at keeping everything nice and clean and smelling fresh. I also try to keep the washing machine lid open after I have used it. This helps to make sure it is completely dry and helps to prevent mildew smell build up. **How Do I Know if My Washing Machine Needs Cleaning?** You will know that it is time to wash your machine when it starts smelling musty and your clothes are not getting clean. ## More Easy Cleaning Hacks [](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-stove-top/) ### [How to Clean Stove Top with one easy step\!](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-stove-top/) [](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-crock-pot/) ### [How to Clean inside of Crock pot](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-crock-pot/) [](https://www.onecrazymom.com/the-5-best-cleaning-supplies-you-need/) ### [The 5 Best Cleaning Supplies You need\!](https://www.onecrazymom.com/the-5-best-cleaning-supplies-you-need/) [](https://www.onecrazymom.com/homemade-dusting-spray/) ### [Homemade Dusting Spray](https://www.onecrazymom.com/homemade-dusting-spray/) ### Share this recipe\! [Pin](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/&media=https://www.onecrazymom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Washing-Machine-Picture-1.jpg&description=How%20to%20Clean%20Washing%20Machine "Share on Pinterest") [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/&display=popup&ref=plugin&src=share_button "Share on Facebook") [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share?url=https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/&text=How%20to%20Clean%20Washing%20Machine "Share on Twitter") [Yummly](https://www.yummly.com/urb/verify?url=https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/&title=How%20to%20Clean%20Washing%20Machine&yumtype=button "Share on Yummly") [Email](https://www.onecrazymom.com/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#447b3731262e212730791d2b313661767422362d212a206176742c2537617674372c25362120617674252a6176742536302d272821617674332d302c6176743d2b316a626774777c7f262b203d790c2b33617674302b617674072821252a6176741325372c2d2a236176740925272c2d2a216174006174052c303034376177056176026176023333336a2b2a212736253e3d292b296a272b296176022c2b3369302b69272821252a6925693325372c2d2a23692925272c2d2a21617602617400617405 "Share via Email") #### About Carrie Barnard ### Leave A Review [Cancel reply](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#respond) ### Comments 1. **Jim Turner** says: October 12, 2025 at 12:42 pm how do I clean the glass door of a front load washing machine? [Reply](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#comment-379841) 1. **Kathy - Eating on a Dime Team** says: November 3, 2025 at 11:18 am Jim – Wipe Away Loose Residue Open the washer door and use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe away any lint, detergent residue, or mildew from the glass. Make a Cleaning Solution Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. For a soapy option, use a few drops of mild dish soap in warm water. Clean the Glass (Inside and Out) Spray the solution generously on both sides of the glass door, especially the inner side where residue often builds up. Wipe with a microfiber cloth in circular motions until clean. Tackle Stubborn Build-Up For dried detergent or mold, sprinkle a little baking soda on a damp cloth and gently scrub the area. Use a soft toothbrush to get into crevices or rubber seals around the glass. Rinse and Dry Wipe again with a clean, damp cloth to remove any cleaner residue. Dry the glass thoroughly with a soft towel to prevent streaks and moisture buildup. Hope this helps\! [Reply](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#comment-380018) [One Crazy Mom](https://www.onecrazymom.com/) © 2026 One Crazy Mom [Disclosure](https://www.onecrazymom.com/disclosure/) \| [Privacy Policy](https://www.onecrazymom.com/privacy/)

Learn **How to Clean Washing Machine** all naturally. We have *step by step instructions* to deep clean washing machine that will work for a front loading and top loading machine.  ## What's in this post: How to Clean Washing Machine - [Why We Love Cleaning Our Washing Machine](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-why-we-love-cleaning-our-washing-machine) - [Ingredients to Clean Washing Machine](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-ingredients-to-clean-washing-machine) - [How to Clean Top-Loading Washing Machine](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-how-to-clean-top-loading-washing-machine) - [How to Clean Front Load Washing Machine](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-how-to-clean-front-load-washing-machine) - [How to Clean Washing Machine Rubber Door Seal](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-how-to-clean-washing-machine-rubber-door-seal) - [Expert Tips](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-expert-tips) - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-a-washing-machine/#h-frequently-asked-questions) ## **Why We Love Cleaning Our Washing Machine** Once you see how simple and easy it is, you won’t mind doing this monthly. Plus, the ingredients are so inexpensive and easy to use for a sparkling clean washer machine. We love making our own cleaning solutions because it saves time, money and free from harsh chemicals. Also, it is just so nice to use natural products in our home. Also, learn [How to Clean Shower Head](https://www.onecrazymom.com/how-to-clean-shower-head/). ## **Ingredients to Clean Washing Machine**  - [**Vinegar**](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=tag=coupclos-20nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=vinegar) – Use White Distilled Vinegar or Cleaning Vinegar - [**Baking Soda**](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=tag=coupclos-20nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=baking+soda&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Abaking+soda) – Helps to remove grime and scum from the washing machine ## **How to Clean Top-Loading Washing Machine** - **Step 1 –** Fill your top load washer machine up with hot water and the largest load option on your washing machine. - **Step 2 –** Add one quart of distilled white [vinegar](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=tag=coupclos-20nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=vinegar) into the top-loading machine while it’s filling up with the water. - **Step 3 –** After it’s filled, close the lid on the top loader and allow the washing machine to run for 1 minute so that the vinegar is mixed up thoroughly with the water in the machine. - **Step 4 –** After the 1-2 minutes, stop the washing machine by opening the lid and allow the vinegar and water mixture to sit for a minimum of 1 hour. - **Step 5 –** While it’s soaking use this time to clean the other parts of the machine. The knobs, lib, seals, etc. I used a scrubbing brush and microfiber towel to clean these items and used the vinegar/water mixture in the machine. Just be careful to not close the lid during this time so the water doesn’t drain out of the machine. - **Step 6 –** After it has been a minimum of 1 hour, close the lid and allow the machine to finish its spin cycle. You can use this time to clean all the parts that you were not able to get to while the lid had to be open. - **Step 7 –** After this hot cycle is complete, run another normal washing cycle and add 1 cup of [baking soda](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=tag=coupclos-20nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=baking+soda&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Abaking+soda) to that cycle. That’s it. Your washing machine will smell and clean beautifully again. It is really that simple. I usually clean my machine once a month. I also try to keep my lid open after I have used it to make sure that it’s able to dry out completely to prevent a mildew smell build-up. ## **How to Clean Front Load Washing Machine** - **Step 1 –** Make sure that your front load washers machine is empty. I pour the cups of white [vinegar](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=tag=coupclos-20nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=vinegar) in the detergent tray on my machine and sprinkle 1 cup of [baking soda](https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=tag=coupclos-20nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=baking+soda&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Abaking+soda) into the drum of the machine. - **Step 2 –** Then run a cycle with 2 cups of vinegar in it on the cleaning cycle or the largest, hottest cycle option that is available on your machine to rinse the machine. ## **How to Clean Washing Machine Rubber Door Seal** After the cycle has completed, I use a combination of water and vinegar to clean all the compartments, knobs, rubber seals, rubber gasket and the detergent tray on the machine. I even like to use a old toothbrush to scrub and ensure that all areas are clean from soap residue or leftover detergent. I clean mine approximately 1 a month. Also, I make sure that clothes are removed timely. It also helps to leave the door open slightly to prevent a mold and mildew smell from developing in the machine. It is so simple to clean your washing machine. For a layer of protection, you may need to wipe it down with liquid chlorine bleach. Make sure to check your washing machine appliance manual of this cleaning product to see if they approve.  ## Expert Tips - **Regular Cleaning –** You can easily use a washing machine tub cleaner regularly which is recommended as part of laundry routine. It helps to fight grime, bacteria and odors that you may not see or smell. - **Exterior Cleaning –** As part of my laundry routine, I like to wipe down the washing machine surface and agitators with a microfiber cloth. It easily collects soap scum, dusts, dirt, residue and grime buildup while doing the laundry. When I am doing towels, I like to wipe down the washing machine and then toss the towel in the batch to wash and dry. - **Detergent Dispenser and Washing Machine Filter –** Make sure to clean the laundry detergent compartment, dispenser drawers and fabric softeners dispensers to keep them from getting clogged. I like to do this weekly with hot water and vinegar to keep things fresh. We also like to clean the filter from lint and small objects. Your washing machine manual will show you where the filter is located. Run the filter under hot water and then place back into the washing machine to keep everything fresh. ## Frequently Asked Questions **How Often Should I Clean Washing Machine?** Try to do this monthly and you won’t ever having problems with your washing machine smelling yucky. This really helps to eliminate odors and keeps everything nice and fresh. You can even use a washing machine cleaners like Affresh Cleaning Tablets to easily clean. ****How Do You Clean a Smelly Washing Machine?**** This does a great job at keeping everything nice and clean and smelling fresh. I also try to keep the washing machine lid open after I have used it. This helps to make sure it is completely dry and helps to prevent mildew smell build up. **How Do I Know if My Washing Machine Needs Cleaning?** You will know that it is time to wash your machine when it starts smelling musty and your clothes are not getting clean. ## More Easy Cleaning Hacks