Here’s a simple, thorough way to clean a washing machine (both front‑load and top‑load) and keep it smelling fresh.

Before you start

  • Check your manual for any specific cleaning cycles or product warnings.
  • Leave the machine empty for all cleaning cycles.
  • Never mix vinegar and bleach in the same cycle or container.

Basic deep clean (works for most machines)

Do this about once a month if you use your washer regularly.

  1. Run a hot “cleaning” cycle
    • Select the hottest, longest wash (or “tub clean/self‑clean” if your washer has it).
    • Add one of the following to the drum (not in the drawer unless your manual says so):
      • 2 cups white vinegar for a front‑loader, or
      • 2–4 cups white vinegar for a large top‑loader.
    • Start the cycle and let it complete. Vinegar helps dissolve soap scum and mineral buildup and reduces odours.
  2. Optional: add baking soda cycle
    • After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle about ½ cup baking soda directly into the drum.
    • Run another hot or warm cycle.
    • This helps neutralise smells and loosen remaining residue.
  3. Wipe the drum
    • When the cycle finishes, wipe the inside of the drum with a clean microfiber cloth.
    • Reach around the back and edges where residue can cling.

Front‑load washers: the gasket and drawer

Front‑loaders often smell because of trapped moisture and detergent.

  1. Clean the rubber door gasket
    • Gently pull back the rubber seal around the door.
    • Wipe out any visible slime, lint, or coins.
    • Clean with a cloth dipped in:
      • Vinegar and water, or
      • A small amount of diluted bleach in water (never mix with vinegar).
    • For stubborn mould, use an old toothbrush to scrub the creases.
    • Dry thoroughly with a towel when you’re done.
  2. Clean the detergent drawer
    • Remove the detergent/softener drawer (most pull out and then lift or unclip).
    • Soak it in hot, soapy water for 10–15 minutes.
    • Use a small brush or old toothbrush to scrub away slimy build‑up.
    • Rinse, dry, and put it back.
    • Wipe inside the drawer cavity in the machine as well.
  3. Check and clean the filter (if accessible)
    • Many front‑loaders have a small filter or pump trap behind a panel at the front bottom.
    • Place a shallow tray or towel underneath, twist open the cap slowly, and let water drain.
    • Remove any lint, coins, or debris, then refit the cap securely.

Top‑load washers: tub, agitator, and rim

  1. Vinegar soak (great for residue and odour)
    • Set the machine to the largest load, hottest water, and longest cycle.
    • Let it fill, then add:
      • 2–4 cups white vinegar.
    • Let it agitate for a few minutes, then pause the cycle and let the vinegar water sit for 30–60 minutes.
    • Restart and let it finish.
  2. Optional: agitator and removable parts
    • If your model allows, remove the agitator cap or the entire agitator and any lint filters.
    • Soak parts in hot, soapy water (or hot water with a bit of vinegar and baking soda).
    • Scrub with a soft brush, rinse, dry, and reinstall.
  3. Clean the top rim and lid
    • After the soak cycle, use a cloth dipped in the hot tub water to wipe:
      • The top rim just above the water line
      • Under the lid
      • Any crevices or hinges
    • Run a quick rinse cycle to flush out loosened grime.

Outside and finishing touches

  • Wipe the exterior
    • Use a soft cloth with mild dish soap or a gentle all‑purpose cleaner.
    • Wipe the top, sides, control panel, and around knobs/buttons.
  • Dry and air out
    • Leave the door or lid open for a few hours after cleaning.
    • If you cleaned the detergent drawer or filter, make sure everything is completely dry before closing.

Regular maintenance so it stays clean

  • Leave the door or lid open between washes so the inside can dry.
  • Use the correct amount of detergent (too much creates build‑up and smells).
  • Avoid using fabric softener every single load; it can create waxy residue.
  • Run an empty hot wash with a cleaner (or just vinegar) about once a month.
  • Wipe the gasket (front‑load) or rim (top‑load) weekly if you do a lot of laundry.

Very quick version

If you just want a fast routine:

  1. Run the hottest, longest cycle with 2–4 cups of white vinegar in an empty machine.
  2. Wipe the drum, rubber seal (front‑load), and door/lid afterwards.
  3. Clean the detergent drawer in hot, soapy water and wipe the outside.
  4. Leave the door or lid open to dry.

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