how to clean washing machine front loader

A front‑loader stays cleaner and smells better if you regularly wash the drum on hot, scrub the rubber door seal, and clean the detergent drawer and filter, then leave the door slightly open to dry between loads.

Quick Scoop

• Empty machine, hot clean cycle: Run an empty hot wash (or the appliance’s built‑in “Clean Washer” cycle) with either a washer cleaner tablet or 1–2 cups of distilled white vinegar in the dispenser to dissolve soap scum and mildew.

• Gasket (rubber door seal): Mix a mild bleach solution (about 3/4 cup bleach in 1 gallon water) or use vinegar, then wipe all around and under the rubber seal to remove slime, mold, hair, and coins; never pull the gasket off.

• Detergent drawer & dispensers: Remove the drawer and any inserts, soak them in warm or hot water, scrub with a small brush, rinse, dry, and reinstall to prevent buildup and odors.

• Drum boost with baking soda: For lingering smells, sprinkle about 1/2 cup baking soda in the empty drum and run another hot cycle while putting 1 cup vinegar in the detergent drawer (unless the maker warns against vinegar).

• Exterior and glass: Wipe the outside, control panel, and door glass with an all‑purpose cleaner or mild DIY cleaner to remove detergent splashes and grime.

• Filter and drain area: Open the lower access panel (if your model has one), remove and clean the filter and catch‑tray of lint, coins, and gunk, then reinstall securely.

• Daily habits to prevent smells:
  • Leave the door and detergent drawer slightly open after washes so moisture can evaporate.

* Wipe the gasket lip dry and remove visible lint after using the machine.

* Avoid over‑dosing detergent and fabric softener; consider using a bit of borax with laundry to reduce mold and mildew growth if it’s safe for your clothes and machine.

Safety notes: Never mix bleach with vinegar or any acid‑based cleaner, and check your washer’s manual before using vinegar or commercial cleaners, as some manufacturers advise specific products or limits.

TL;DR: Deep clean once a month (gasket, drawer, filter, hot drum clean), then keep the door open and wipe moisture away after normal use to stop that musty front‑loader smell from coming back.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.