How to clean and deodorize your washing machine: a step-by-step guide
Your washing machine also needs maintenance. Detergent residue, dirt, lint, and moisture can accumulate in different areas and lead to unpleasant odors. Periodic cleaning, along with good habits after each wash, helps keep the appliance in good condition.
Why can a washing machine smell bad?
Bad odors can appear when moisture and residue remain in the drum, the door seal, or the detergent drawer. Leaving wet clothes inside the drum for a long time, using too much laundry product, or failing to clean specific parts of the machine can also be factors.
How to clean your washing machine step by step
1. Clean the detergent drawer
Remove the drawer if your model allows and remove any soap and softener residue. Rinse it with water and use a soft brush for areas where residue has accumulated. Let it dry before putting it back in place.
2. Clean the door seal
On front-loading washing machines, check the folds of the seal after a certain number of washes. Remove lint, hair, and small debris, and wipe the surface with a damp cloth. Dry it afterwards to prevent moisture from accumulating.
3. Clean the filter
The filter can accumulate lint, coins, and other small objects. Consult your washing machine's manual to locate it and learn how to clean it safely. Before opening it, follow the manufacturer's instructions and have a towel or container ready in case water comes out.
4. Clean the drum
If the washing machine manufacturer has a specific drum cleaning program, it is best to use it according to their instructions. If not, you can run an empty maintenance cycle following the manual's recommendations.
How to remove bad odors from the washing machine
If your washing machine is giving off an odor, start by removing visible residue and checking the drawer, the seal, and the filter. Then, run the cleaning program recommended by the manufacturer. Do not try to compensate for the bad smell by using larger amounts of detergent or softener.
Can you clean the washing machine with cleaning products?
Yes, but the product must be compatible with the appliance. Always follow the instructions from the washing machine manufacturer and those on the cleaning product. Do not mix different products, especially bleach with other cleaners.
Oxygen Booster Nº04 for washing machine maintenance
At Home Healthy Home, you can check out our Oxygen Booster Nº04. If you are going to use a product with sodium percarbonate to clean your washing machine, first check that it is compatible with the appliance manufacturer's guidelines and follow the dosage indicated on the product. It is not a substitute for cleaning the filter, the seal, or the drawer.
What about vinegar?
Vinegar frequently appears in home remedies for cleaning washing machines. Before using it, check the manufacturer's recommendations, as not all appliances are designed for the same products. Never mix it with bleach or other incompatible cleaning products.
How to prevent bad odors in the washing machine
- Take clothes out of the drum when the cycle ends.
- Leave the door slightly ajar when the washing machine is not in use, if the manufacturer allows it.
- Leave the drawer open so it can dry whenever possible.
- Do not use more detergent than recommended.
- Periodically clean the drawer, the seal, and the filter.
- Run the drum maintenance program when indicated by the manufacturer.
- Do not leave damp clothes inside the washing machine for hours.
How often should you clean the washing machine?
There is no universal frequency. It depends on usage, the model, and the manufacturer's recommendations. As a routine, it is best to check and clean areas where residue accumulates regularly and act sooner if moisture, dirt, or bad odors appear.
Mistakes to avoid
- Leaving wet clothes inside the drum for hours.
- Using too much detergent thinking it will clean better.
- Ignoring the door seal and the drawer.
- Not cleaning the filter when the model requires maintenance.
- Mixing bleach, vinegar, or other cleaning products.
- Using a product not recommended for the appliance.
Frequently asked questions
How do I remove bad odors from the washing machine?
Clean the drawer, the seal, and the filter, remove any visible residue, and run the drum cleaning program recommended by the manufacturer. Afterwards, leave the parts that can be kept open to ventilate and dry.
How do I clean the washing machine seal?
Remove residue from the folds with a damp cloth and dry it well afterwards. If you need to use a product, check first that it is compatible with the material and the manufacturer's instructions.
Can I use vinegar to clean the washing machine?
It is a common home remedy, but you should first check the recommendations of your washing machine manufacturer. Never mix it with bleach or other incompatible cleaners.
Can I use baking soda and vinegar together?
It is not necessary. When they react with each other, they largely neutralize one another, so there is no point in mixing them for a superior cleaning effect.
Can the bad smell from the washing machine transfer to my clothes?
A washing machine with accumulated residue and moisture can cause clothes to come out with an unpleasant odor. If this happens, check the cleanliness of the appliance and your washing and drying process.
In summary
To keep a washing machine clean and free of bad odors, combine periodic cleaning, proper maintenance, and simple habits: clean the drawer, seal, and filter, run the maintenance program when appropriate, and do not leave damp clothes inside the drum.
If you also want to improve the care of your garments, discover our laundry collection.
