How to deep clean your washing machine

The short version: To clean your washing machine, run an empty drum cleaning or hot wash cycle using a washing machine cleaner, then clean the detergent dispenser, wipe the door seal or lid, and remove any debris from the pump filter if your model has one. Finish by wiping the exterior and leaving the door or lid open after each wash to help prevent mould, mildew and unpleasant odours. Deep clean your washing machine every six months, or more often if it gets heavy use or develops smells.

Signs your washing machine could use a clean include:

• Musty or stale smells coming from the drum

• Visible grime or black spots around the rubber seal or inside the drum

• Build-up inside the detergent drawer or detergent dispenser

• Sludge or debris in the pump filter

• Clothes not smelling fresh after washing

• Visible soap residue or scrud on washed clothes or in the silicone gasket rim (front loader).

You may also benefit from more frequent cleaning if you:

• Mostly use cold wash cycles.

• Regularly use fabric softener.

• Leave damp washing sitting in the machine after the cycle finishes.

Light maintenance between deep cleans will make the bigger clean much easier.

The overall cleaning process is very similar for both front loading washing machines and top loading washing machines, but there are a few important differences. Front loaders have a large rubber seal around the door that needs regular attention because it traps moisture and lint. Top loaders don't have this seal, but may have an agitator, dispensers or lid areas where residue can collect.

Here's a quick comparison:

To clean the drum:

• Empty the machine completely.

• Add washing machine cleaner to the detergent drawer or dispenser according to the instructions.

• Run the machine's Drum Clean/cleaning cycle or, if your washer doesn't have one, the hottest hot cycle available.

• Allow the cycle to finish completely before using the machine again.

If you have a top loader, also wipe around the base of the centre wash mechanism while cleaning the drum. On models with an agitator (the tall central post that moves clothes through the water), lint and detergent residue can sometimes collect around its base. On machines with an impeller (a low-profile disc at the bottom of the drum), check around the edges for any grime. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually all that's needed.

To clean it:

• Remove the detergent drawer if your machine has one.

• Rinse it under warm water.

• Wipe away residue with a soft cloth.

• Use an old toothbrush to clean small corners and openings.

• Dry before replacing.

If your top loader doesn't have a removable drawer, simply wipe around the detergent and softener dispenser with a damp cloth.

Front loaders

• Pull back the folds of the rubber gasket.

• Remove any lint, hair or debris.

• Wipe thoroughly using a damp cloth and mild detergent.

• Dry the seal when finished.

Top loaders

• Wipe underneath the lid.

• Clean around the detergent, bleach and fabric softener dispensers.

• Remove any visible residue.

Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scourers, which can damage plastic and rubber surfaces.

If your machine has a removable filter:

• Switch the washer off and unplug it.

• Place an old towel and shallow tray directly in front of the small filter panel.

• Open the panel cover and then unhook and drain the small pump outlet hose.

• Unscrew the filter, wash it thoroughly and rinse.

• Clear the filter cavity of any grime or obstructions before twisting the filter back into place.

Simply:

• Clean the exterior with a soft damp cloth.

• Use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner if needed.

• Wipe around buttons, handles and control panels.

• Dry with a clean cloth.

Giving your washing machine a deep clean every few months is a good routine to get into, but your everyday laundry habits also make a big difference. Small changes can reduce detergent build-up, minimise moisture and help prevent mould from developing in the first place.

A few simple habits include:

• Try to use only the recommended amount of laundry detergent.

• Pre-treat heavily stained clothes before washing.

• Avoid overloading the drum so water and detergent can circulate freely.

• Remove damp laundry as soon as the cycle finishes (some front loaders now include ‘stay fresh’ functions that can keep washed loads fresh in the drum for several hours after a cycle).

• Leave the door or lid ajar after every wash to allow the drum to dry. This is especially important for front loaders, which seal much more tightly than top loaders.

• Wipe moisture from the door seals if water collects there.

• Empty pockets before washing to prevent blockages!

A clean washing machine often works more efficiently, but there are also a few simple ways to reduce running costs while maintaining good washing performance.

To help save energy:

• Use Eco programs where appropriate.

• Use half-load settings if your machine has them and you’re only washing a few items.

• Wash everyday (i.e. not heavily soiled) loads in cold water when suitable, because heating water up constitutes the major cost of a warm water wash.

• If using hot water, consider washing during off-peak electricity times, or even the three free hours of power under the Australian government’s Solar Sharer Offer, if your tariff and meter allow it.

If your washing machine’s got bigger problems than being a little grimy, it could be time to upgrade. Appliances Online stocks a wide range of front and top load washers, from premium brands to budget-friendly options. Plus, we deliver to 95% of Australia's population with Appliances Online's legendary FREE delivery - and we can usually get your new top loader washing machine to you by the next day (Mon-Fri) as long as it's in stock.

We'll also take all the packaging, and your old washer, away for recycling, for free. For tips on choosing the best washing machine for your home, read our Laundry Buying Guide, and if you still have questions, call our friendly team 24/7 on 1300 000 500, or message us via the chat icon at the bottom of your screen.