9 Expert-Approved Ways to Deep Clean Your Washing Machine Top & Front Load

Your washing machine is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, but also one of the most overlooked when it comes to maintenance. Over time, soap scum, detergent residue, lint, and hard-water minerals can build up inside the drum, seals, and pipes. This build-up not only leads to mould, mildew, and foul smells, but also affects your washer’s efficiency and lifespan.

In this expert guide by DP Electric Melbourne, we’ll share how to deep clean your top-load and front-load washing machines like a pro. Plus, we’ll give you maintenance tips to prevent odours, improve performance, and save on costly repairs.

How to Clean a Front-Load Washing Machine

Things you will require – White vinegar, baking soda, toothbrush, spray bottle, and microfiber cloth.

Step 1- Run a Hot Vinegar Cycle:- Add 2 cups of white vinegar into the detergent tray and run a full cycle on the hottest setting. This helps kill mould, dissolve soap residue, and sanitize the drum.

Step 2 –Add Baking Soda for Odour Removal:-Once done, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda directly inside the drum and run another short hot cycle. Baking soda neutralizes odours and brightens the interior.

Step 3: Clean the Gasket and Door Seal:- The rubber seal around the door is a mould hotspot. Mix warm water and baking soda, dip a cloth in the solution, and scrub around the gasket. Use a toothbrush for corners.

Step 4: Wipe the Drum and Dispensers:- Use a microfiber cloth sprayed with vinegar to wipe down the inner drum, door, and detergent drawer. Remove and clean the dispenser drawer separately if possible.

Step 5: Dry It Out:- Leave the washer door open for a few hours after cleaning. Airflow prevents moisture and stops mould regrowth.

How to Clean a Top-Load Washing Machine

Things you will require – Bleach, distilled white vinegar, toothbrush, spray bottle, and microfiber cloth.

Step 1: Sanitize with Bleach:- Fill the drum with hot water and add 4 cups of bleach. Let it sit for 1 hour with the lid open. Then, run a complete cycle to flush the bleach.

Step 2: Remove Odour with Vinegar:- Refill with hot water again, but this time add 4 cups of white vinegar. Let it soak for 1 hour before running another wash cycle.

Step 3: Scrub the Exterior & Dispensers:- Make a 50:50 mix of vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Use it to wipe the lid, knobs, and sides. Clean detergent and fabric softener dispensers with a toothbrush.

Step 4: Clean the Agitator and Filter:- If your washer has a removable lint filter or agitator cap, take it out and rinse it under warm water. This often-overlooked part traps detergent residue and lint, which can smell over time.

Advanced Tips for Washing Machine Maintenance

Even with regular cleaning, following these expert tips will keep your washer running like new:

• • Always use HE (High Efficiency) detergent for modern machines. Too much soap or the wrong type can cause foaming and residue buildup.

• • Once a month, run an empty hot cycle with a cup of vinegar. It helps flush internal pipes and prevents odours before they start.

• • Inspect water inlet hoses and drains for blockages or kinks. Replace hoses every 3–5 years to avoid leaks and flooding.

• • After doing laundry, wipe the rubber gasket dry and leave the door open for air circulation.
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  • Stop overloading: Overloading a washing machine can be very damaging for the machine in the long run. Also, if you put a big load into the machine that it cannot handle, the clothes won’t be properly cleaned. Overloading also causes the machine to shake. Make sure to divide your clothes into loads that the machine can carry and if there’s an excess you can always just run another wash load.
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Remember, at DP Electric, we specialize in repairing Haier washing machine and Aeg Washing machine. Our highly trained technicians deliver top-notch service that stands out in the industry. With our extensive experience and specialized knowledge, we ensure your kitchen appliances run smoothly and efficiently.

Conclusion

These methods are really effective to clean washing machine effectively. Assess your washing machine every few months to see if it smells bad or if there is any mould that is being accumulated. After using these methods and the tips, your washing machine should be clean as a new one and ready to do laundry. If you are looking for professional cleaning services that will save you from the hassle of this procedure, contact DP Electrical Repairs for washing machine service in Melbourne.