In an ideal world, you should be cleaning your washing machine about once a month, Cleaning your washer should be viewed as more of a preventative measure than as something that you do to fix a problem once it arises.
Mix a solution of 2 cups of warm water and 1 cup of distilled white vinegar. Dip a sponge or soft-bristled brush in the solution. Gently pull back the door gasket and scrub away any mold and detergent residue.
Pour 2 cups of vinegar into the detergent dispenser filling all of the sections. Then, select the largest load and hottest water setting and run a complete cycle. Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the washer drum and run a second cycle set to the largest load and hottest water setting.
Open the washer door and dry the interior of the washer including behind the door gasket. Leave the door and dispenser drawer open until the interior of the washer is dry.
- Leave the lid or door of a washer open after every load to allow the drum and seals to dry and lessen the risk of mold and mildew growth.
- Use the right amount of detergent and fabric softener to prevent excessive residue in your clothes and the washer.