How to Clean Your Washer: A Simple Guide to Keep It Running Like New

Learn how to clean your washer the right way. Step-by-step guide to remove odors, mold, residue, and keep your machine running efficiently.

Your washer works hard every day — and just like any appliance, it needs regular cleaning to stay efficient, odor-free, and long-lasting. Detergent residue, lint, and moisture can lead to mold, bad smells, and even mechanical problems over time.
Here is a simple, effective guide to keep your washer fresh and running smoothly.

1️⃣ Clean the Drum (Monthly)
For front-load and top-load washers:
Empty the washer completely.
Add 2 cups white vinegar directly into the drum.
Run a hot cycle (cleaning cycle if available).
Once done, sprinkle ½ cup baking soda inside and run another short hot cycle.
Why this works:
Vinegar removes mineral deposits & soap buildup.
Baking soda neutralizes odors.

2️⃣ Clean the Rubber Door Gasket (Front-Load)
This area traps moisture, hair, lint, and detergent — the #1 cause of moldy smell.
How to clean it:
Mix warm water + vinegar 
Pull back the gasket gently and wipe inside.
Remove coins, hair, and debris.
Dry thoroughly with a towel.
Tip:
Leave the door open after every wash to reduce moisture inside.

3️⃣ Clean the Detergent Dispenser
Pull out the drawer completely.
Soak it in hot water for 10–15 minutes.
Scrub off softener residue and detergent buildup.
Wipe the compartment before putting the drawer back.
This prevents clogging and improves water flow.

4️⃣ Clean the Drain Pump Filter (Front-Load Washers)
If your washer smells bad, drains slowly, or stops mid-cycle — the filter is usually the reason.
Steps:
Locate the filter door (bottom front panel).
Place a towel and shallow container under it — water will spill.
Turn the filter counterclockwise.
Remove coins, socks, lint, and debris.
Rinse and reinstall the filter.
Important: Clean the filter every 1–2 months.

5️⃣ Run a Monthly Maintenance Cycle
Most washers have a Tub Clean, Clean Washer, or Self Clean cycle.
Use:
Vinegar
or
A washer cleaning tablet (Affresh, Tide, etc.)
This keeps the inside fresh and prevents odor-causing bacteria.

6️⃣ Keep the Washer Dry After Every Use
Moisture = mold.
Do this after every laundry load:
Leave the door open
Wipe the drum & gasket
Pull out the detergent drawer slightly
These small habits prevent 90% of odor problems.

When to Call IP Tech Repair

Call or book service with IP Tech Repair if you notice:

- Bad smells returning within days after cleaning
- Washer not draining properly
- Loud noises during spin
- Water leaking from the bottom
- Error codes that won’t clear
- Drum not spinning or washing unevenly

Our technicians offer same-day washer repair in Los Angeles and can diagnose deeper mechanical or electrical issues that cleaning alone won’t fix.

Conclusion
Cleaning your washer is quick, easy, and prevents expensive repairs. With just a few monthly steps, your machine will stay fresh, efficient, and last much longer. If your washer still isn’t performing properly, IP Tech Repair is always here to help.