How to Clean a Washing Machine – Gun Safety Innovations

Cleaning your washing machine regularly is important for keeping clothes fresh, preventing unpleasant odors and reducing the buildup of detergent residue, lint, mold, mildew and hard-water deposits.

Although a washing machine cleans your clothes, the machine itself also needs cleaning. Moisture, detergent, fabric softener, dirt and mineral deposits can accumulate inside the drum, detergent drawer, door gasket, filters and other components.

The good news is that washing-machine cleaning is relatively simple. Most modern automatic washing machines have a Tub Clean, Drum Clean or Self Clean program that makes routine maintenance easier.

For the best results, clean the drum, detergent drawer, filter, door gasket, lid and exterior regularly. If you live in an area with hard water, periodic descaling is also important.

How Often Should You Clean a Washing Machine?

For most households, a thorough washing-machine cleaning approximately once a month is a good maintenance schedule, particularly if the machine is used frequently.

LG, for example, recommends regular Tub Clean use and provides model-specific instructions for cleaning and descaling.

Part	Recommended Frequency
Drum/Tub	About once a month
Door gasket	Weekly or as needed
Detergent drawer	Every 2–4 weeks
Lint filter	After frequent use / according to manual
Drain/Pump filter	Every 1–3 months or according to manual
Exterior	As needed
Descaling	Periodically, especially in hard-water areas

The exact frequency depends on how often you use the machine, water hardness, detergent type and the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Signs That Your Washing Machine Needs Cleaning

You may need to clean your washing machine if you notice:

Bad or musty smells
Clothes coming out with an unpleasant odor
Black or gray residue around the door gasket
Detergent buildup in the dispenser
Visible dirt inside the drum
Lint accumulating around the tub or filter
Slow drainage
Water remaining inside the machine
White mineral deposits
Reduced washing performance

A dirty drain filter can interfere with drainage, while accumulated residue in the gasket or detergent drawer can contribute to odors.

How to Clean a Washing Machine: Quick Method

For a basic monthly cleaning:

Remove all clothes from the machine.
Clean the detergent drawer.
Clean the lint or drain filter according to the manual.
Clean the door gasket or lid area.
Run the manufacturer’s Tub Clean/Drum Clean program.
Use a washing-machine cleaner or descaler approved for your machine if required.
Wipe away remaining residue.
Leave the door or lid open so the interior can dry.

Do not put clothes inside the machine during a Tub Clean cycle. LG specifically instructs users to run its Tub Clean process without laundry inside.

How to Clean a Front Load Washing Machine

Front-load washing machines require particular attention to the rubber door gasket, detergent drawer and drain/pump filter.

Step 1: Empty the Washing Machine

Remove all clothes from the drum before beginning the cleaning process.

Step 2: Clean the Rubber Door Gasket

Pull the rubber gasket back gently and inspect the folds.

Remove:

Hair
Lint
Detergent residue
Dirt
Small objects

Wipe the gasket with a soft damp cloth.

Pay particular attention to the bottom section of the gasket, where water and debris can collect.

LG’s maintenance guidance specifically recommends keeping the door opening, flexible gasket and door glass clean and dry.

Step 3: Clean the Detergent Drawer

Remove the detergent drawer if your machine allows it.

Wash the drawer with warm water and use a soft brush or old toothbrush to remove detergent buildup from corners and compartments.

Clean the inside of the dispenser cavity as well.

LG’s cleaning guidance recommends removing and cleaning the detergent drawer and paying attention to buildup in the compartments.

Step 4: Clean the Drain/Pump Filter

Many front-load washing machines have a drain or pump filter behind a small access panel near the bottom of the machine.

Before opening it:

Switch off the washing machine.
Disconnect it from the power supply if required by the manual.
Place a shallow container or towel underneath because residual water may come out.
Open the filter carefully.
Remove lint, coins, hair and other debris.
Rinse the filter and reinstall it securely.

LG specifically identifies pump-filter cleaning as part of front-load washer maintenance.

Step 5: Run the Tub Clean Program

If your washing machine has a Tub Clean, Drum Clean or similar program, use it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Use only the recommended washing-machine cleaner, descaler or other cleaning product specified by the manufacturer.

For example, LG provides model-specific instructions for using its Tub Clean function and ScaLGo descaling products.

Step 6: Dry the Machine

After cleaning, wipe the gasket and leave the door open for ventilation.

This helps reduce moisture accumulation and can help prevent unpleasant odors and mold growth.

How to Clean a Top Load Washing Machine

Top-load machines are generally easier to access, but the tub, pulsator or agitator, detergent dispenser and lint filter still need regular cleaning.

Step 1: Empty the Tub

Remove all clothes and other items from the washing machine.

Step 2: Clean the Lint Filter

If your machine has a removable lint filter, remove it and wash away accumulated lint and dirt.

Some washing machines use different filter designs, so check the user manual before removing any component.

Step 3: Clean the Detergent Dispenser

Remove the detergent or fabric-softener dispenser if it is removable.

Wash it with warm water and use a soft brush to remove residue.

Step 4: Clean the Pulsator or Agitator

Inspect the area around the pulsator or agitator for hair, lint, dirt and detergent buildup.

Use a soft brush or cloth to clean accessible areas.

Do not disassemble the pulsator unless your owner’s manual specifically provides instructions for doing so.

Step 5: Run the Tub Clean Cycle

If your machine has a Tub Clean function, run it with the drum completely empty.

Use the cleaning product recommended by the manufacturer.

LG’s current top-loader cleaning service includes cleaning the pulsator, inlet filter, lint filter, tub, drum and dispenser, illustrating the areas that commonly require maintenance.

Step 6: Leave the Lid Open

After washing, leave the lid open until the tub has dried.

Good ventilation helps reduce moisture buildup and unpleasant odors.

How to Clean a Semi-Automatic Washing Machine

Semi-automatic machines require slightly different cleaning because their wash and spin tubs are generally accessed manually.

Clean the Wash Tub

Wipe the inside of the wash tub with a soft cloth or sponge.

For deeper cleaning, follow the cleaning procedure specified in the owner’s manual.

Clean the Lint Filter

Remove the lint filter and wash it under running water.

Remove accumulated lint and detergent residue before reinstalling it.

Clean the Spin Tub

Inspect the spin tub for lint, dirt and detergent residue and wipe it clean.

Clean the Pulsator

If accessible, clean around the pulsator to remove dirt and debris.

Do not remove components unless the manufacturer provides instructions for doing so.

Clean the Exterior

Wipe the control panel, lid and exterior surfaces using a soft damp cloth.

LG’s current semi-automatic cleaning service includes cleaning the pulsator, lint filter and tub/drum.

How to Clean the Washing Machine Drum

The drum is one of the most important parts to clean because it comes into direct contact with your laundry.

The easiest method is to use the machine’s built-in Tub Clean or Drum Clean cycle, if available.

Empty the washing machine.
Close the door or lid.
Add the recommended washing-machine cleaning product if required.
Select Tub Clean/Drum Clean.
Start the cycle.
Allow the complete program to finish.
Wipe away any remaining residue.
Leave the machine open to dry.

Do not use normal laundry detergent during a dedicated cleaning cycle unless the manufacturer specifically instructs you to do so.

How to Clean the Washing Machine Detergent Drawer

Detergent drawers can accumulate:

Powder detergent
Liquid detergent
Fabric softener
Moisture
Mold
Dust and dirt

To clean the drawer:

Switch off the washing machine.
Remove the drawer if possible.
Rinse it with warm water.
Use a soft brush to remove buildup.
Clean the cavity where the drawer sits.
Rinse the drawer thoroughly.
Dry it before reinstalling.

Cleaning the drawer regularly prevents detergent residue from accumulating and helps maintain proper detergent flow.

How to Clean a Washing Machine Rubber Gasket

The rubber gasket on a front-load washing machine can trap moisture, hair, lint and detergent residue.

To clean it:

Open the washing-machine door.
Pull the gasket back gently.
Remove visible debris.
Wipe the folds with a soft damp cloth.
Clean stubborn residue carefully.
Dry the gasket thoroughly.

Do not aggressively scrub or stretch the rubber seal.

A damaged gasket can cause water leakage, so replace it if it becomes cracked or damaged.

How to Clean the Washing Machine Filter

There can be different types of filters depending on the washing-machine design.

Lint Filter

Top-load and semi-automatic machines commonly have lint filters that collect fibers and debris.

Remove and rinse the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Drain or Pump Filter

Many front-load machines have a drain/pump filter that catches objects such as coins, lint and hair.

Clean it periodically to help prevent drainage problems.

LG identifies a blocked or dirty drain filter as one possible cause of drainage problems.

Inlet Filter

The water inlet may also contain a small filter that prevents debris from entering the machine.

Some manufacturers recommend periodic cleaning of this filter. LG’s service guidance includes cleaning the inlet filter as part of washing-machine maintenance.

How to Remove Bad Smell From a Washing Machine

If your washing machine smells bad, simply washing the outside of the machine will not solve the problem.

Check these areas:

Door gasket
Detergent drawer
Drum
Drain filter
Lint filter
Drain hose
Standing water

Then run a complete Tub Clean or Drum Clean cycle using the manufacturer’s recommended cleaner.

After every wash, leave a front-load door or top-load lid open when practical so the interior can dry.

How to Remove Mold From a Washing Machine

Mold and mildew are more likely to develop where moisture remains trapped for long periods.

Pay particular attention to the rubber gasket of front-load machines and areas around detergent dispensers.

For visible mold:

Remove the visible residue with a damp cloth.
Clean the affected area with a suitable appliance-safe cleaner.
Run the manufacturer’s Tub Clean cycle.
Clean the detergent drawer and filter.
Dry the machine thoroughly.

For persistent mold or a heavily contaminated machine, professional cleaning may be appropriate.

Should You Use Vinegar to Clean a Washing Machine?

Vinegar is commonly suggested as a household cleaning solution, but it should not automatically be treated as the best choice for every washing machine.

Manufacturers can have different recommendations regarding cleaning agents, and some materials, particularly rubber components, may not be suitable for repeated exposure to acidic cleaners.

For this reason, the safest approach is to use a washing-machine cleaner or descaler approved or recommended by the manufacturer.

LG’s own cleaning guidance, for example, discusses specific cleaning and descaling products and warns that vinegar should not be used too frequently around the rubber seal because it can contribute to corrosion of the rubber.

Should You Use Baking Soda to Clean a Washing Machine?

Baking soda is another popular home-cleaning method, but it is not necessary for every machine.

If your manufacturer recommends a dedicated Tub Clean product, it is generally better to follow the manufacturer’s instructions instead of experimenting with household chemicals.

Do not combine cleaning chemicals unless the manufacturer specifically says that doing so is safe.

Can You Use Bleach to Clean a Washing Machine?

Some washing machines and cleaning programs permit chlorine bleach, but the correct amount and location depend on the model.

Never assume that bleach can simply be poured into the drum.

Some manufacturer instructions specifically direct users to put bleach into a designated dispenser compartment rather than directly into the tub.

Never mix bleach with vinegar, acids or other cleaning chemicals.

If you are unsure, use a washing-machine cleaner recommended in the owner’s manual.

How to Descale a Washing Machine

Descaling is particularly important in areas with hard water.

Hard water can leave mineral deposits inside the washing machine, including on components associated with water heating.

To descale:

Empty the machine.
Use a washing-machine descaler suitable for your model.
Follow the product’s dosage instructions.
Run the recommended Tub Clean or cleaning cycle.
Complete the entire cycle.
Run an additional rinse if required by the product instructions.

LG states that its ScaLGo products are designed to remove hard-water scale and mineral deposits from washing-machine components.

For hard-water areas, periodic descaling can be particularly useful.

Read: Best Washing Machines for Hard Water in India

How Often Should You Descale a Washing Machine?

There is no universal interval because water hardness varies substantially between locations.

If you live in a hard-water area, you may need to descale more frequently than someone using relatively soft water.

The manufacturer’s recommended descaling interval should take priority.

How to Prevent a Washing Machine From Smelling

Preventing odors is easier than removing them later.

Leave the door or lid open after washing.
Remove wet clothes promptly.
Do not use excessive detergent.
Clean the detergent drawer regularly.
Clean the door gasket.
Clean the lint/drain filter.
Run Tub Clean regularly.
Descale when necessary.
Keep the exterior and surrounding area dry.

How to Prevent Mold in a Front Load Washing Machine

Front-load machines use a sealed door gasket, which can retain moisture after a wash.

To reduce mold risk:

Wipe the gasket after washing if it remains wet.
Leave the door slightly open.
Leave the detergent drawer open when practical.
Do not leave wet laundry inside.
Run the Tub Clean cycle regularly.
Clean the drain filter according to the manufacturer’s schedule.

How to Clean a Washing Machine With Hard Water

If your home has hard water, cleaning should include both routine hygiene cleaning and periodic descaling.

A practical maintenance routine is:

Task	Purpose
Monthly Tub Clean	Removes residue and helps control odors
Regular filter cleaning	Removes lint and debris
Detergent drawer cleaning	Removes detergent buildup
Gasket cleaning	Removes moisture, dirt and residue
Periodic descaling	Reduces mineral deposits

How to Clean a Washing Machine Without a Tub Clean Function

Older or basic washing machines may not have a dedicated Tub Clean program.

In that situation:

Empty the washing machine.
Clean the dispenser and filters manually.
Use a washing-machine cleaner approved for the appliance.
Select the longest appropriate empty wash cycle.
Use the temperature recommended by the cleaner and manufacturer.
Allow the complete cycle to finish.
Run an additional rinse if required.
Dry the machine afterward.

Always check the owner’s manual before using any cleaning chemical or high-temperature cleaning method.

How to Clean the Outside of a Washing Machine

Exterior cleaning is simple.

Switch off the machine.
Wipe the control panel with a soft, slightly damp cloth.
Clean the lid or door.
Wipe the sides and top of the machine.
Dry the surfaces afterward.

Avoid abrasive cleaners, harsh solvents and sharp objects that could damage the finish. Manufacturer instructions should take priority for specific exterior materials.

Things You Should Never Do When Cleaning a Washing Machine

Do not mix bleach and vinegar.
Do not mix different cleaning chemicals.
Do not use abrasive tools on the drum or gasket.
Do not pour chemicals into the machine without checking the instructions.
Do not run Tub Clean with clothes inside.
Do not remove internal components unless instructed by the manual.
Do not use excessive detergent.
Do not ignore a leaking or damaged gasket.
Do not operate the machine if electrical components have been exposed to water.

Washing Machine Cleaning Schedule

Frequency	Maintenance Task
After every wash	Remove clothes and leave door/lid open
Weekly	Wipe gasket/lid and remove visible debris
Every 2–4 weeks	Clean detergent drawer and accessible filters
Monthly	Run Tub Clean/Drum Clean
Every 1–3 months	Check drain/pump filter if applicable
Periodically	Descale according to water hardness and manufacturer instructions

Does Cleaning a Washing Machine Improve Washing Performance?

Regular maintenance can help keep the washing machine operating properly.

Removing detergent residue, lint, mineral deposits and other buildup can help maintain clean washing surfaces and proper drainage.

However, cleaning cannot compensate for problems such as a failing motor, damaged bearings, blocked plumbing or a defective water inlet valve.

If the machine continues to smell, leak, fail to drain or produce poor washing results after cleaning, professional inspection may be necessary.

When Should You Call a Washing Machine Technician?

Consider professional service if you notice:

Persistent bad smell after thorough cleaning
Water leakage
Repeated drainage problems
Unusual grinding or bearing noise
Electrical problems
Repeated error codes
Severe mold or residue buildup that cannot be removed
Damage to the drum or gasket

Do not dismantle electrical or mechanical components yourself unless you are qualified to do so.

Final Verdict

Cleaning a washing machine is an important part of routine appliance maintenance. You do not need to perform a complicated deep clean every week, but you should regularly clean the drum, detergent drawer, gasket, filters and exterior.

For automatic washing machines, the easiest approach is to use the built-in Tub Clean or Drum Clean program when available. Use the cleaning product recommended by the manufacturer and never put clothes inside a dedicated cleaning cycle.

If you live in a hard-water area, add periodic descaling to your maintenance routine. Hard-water deposits can accumulate inside the washing machine, and manufacturers such as LG provide dedicated descaling products for this purpose.

The simplest routine is:

Clean the gasket and filters regularly → clean the detergent drawer → run Tub Clean monthly → descale periodically → keep the machine dry between washes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my washing machine?

For many households, running a Tub Clean or Drum Clean cycle approximately once a month is a good starting point. The ideal frequency depends on usage, water hardness and the manufacturer’s instructions.

Can I clean a washing machine with vinegar?

Vinegar is commonly used as a household cleaner, but it should not automatically be used in every washing machine. Check your manufacturer’s recommendations, particularly regarding rubber seals and repeated use.

Can I use baking soda to clean my washing machine?

Baking soda is sometimes used for household cleaning, but a manufacturer-approved washing-machine cleaner is the safer default when the manufacturer provides specific cleaning instructions.

How do I clean a washing machine that smells bad?

Clean the gasket, detergent drawer and filters, then run the manufacturer’s Tub Clean or Drum Clean cycle. Also leave the machine open after washing so the interior can dry.

How do I clean mold from a washing machine?

Remove visible mold and residue from accessible areas, clean the gasket and detergent drawer, run the appropriate cleaning cycle and improve ventilation after every wash.

How do I clean a front-load washing machine?

Clean the door gasket, detergent drawer and drain/pump filter, then run the Tub Clean or Drum Clean cycle according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

How do I clean a top-load washing machine?

Clean the lint filter, detergent dispenser, pulsator or agitator and tub, then run the Tub Clean cycle if your machine has one.

How do I clean a semi-automatic washing machine?

Clean the wash tub, spin tub, lint filter, pulsator and exterior manually. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any deeper tub-cleaning procedure.

How often should I descale my washing machine?

It depends on your water hardness and the manufacturer’s instructions. Homes with hard water generally need more frequent descaling than homes with softer water.

Should I leave my washing machine door open?

Yes. Leaving the door slightly open after a wash allows the interior to dry and can help reduce moisture-related odors and mold.