How to Deep Clean Your Washing Machine With Baking Soda
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I hate to say it…. but even the appliance that cleans your clothes needs cleaning itself!
Over time, washing machines accumulate detergent residue, fabric softener buildup, mold, and less-than-pleasant odors.
Luckily, a quick deep clean with baking soda and white vinegar can bring back your machine’s freshness and improve its performance. Here’s how to do it.
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Table of contents
What you’ll need:
- ½ cup baking soda
- 2 cups white vinegar
- Microfiber cloth
- Dish soap (optional)
- Old toothbrush (for tough grime)
Deep cleaning a front-load washing machine
1. Clean the gasket and door
Front-load washers are prone to mold buildup in the rubber gasket. Mix a bit of dish soap with warm water and scrub the gasket, including inside the folds. Use a toothbrush for stubborn areas.
2. Add baking soda
Sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda directly into the washing machine drum.
3. Pour in the vinegar
Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser. Do not pour it into the drum.
4. Run a hot cycle
Set your machine to its hottest and longest cycle (such as "Tub Clean" or "Sanitize") and let it run completely.
5. Wipe down the interior
Once the cycle finishes, use a dry cloth to wipe the inside of the drum, the door, and the detergent tray.
Deep cleaning a top-load washing machine
1. Fill with hot water
Set your washer to the largest load size using hot water. Allow it to fill completely.
2. Add cleaning agents
Add 2 cups of white vinegar and ½ cup of baking soda to the water. Let the solution mix, then pause the cycle and let it sit for one hour with the lid open.
3. Clean the agitator and the lid
While soaking, scrub the inside of the lid and agitator using vinegar or dish soap and a toothbrush.
4. Finish the cycle
Close the lid and allow the machine to complete the wash cycle.
5. Wipe the exterior
Use a cloth dampened with vinegar to wipe down knobs, control panels, and the outside of the machine.
Arm & Hammer Baking Soda
Helpful maintenance tips:
- Repeat monthly: Deep clean once a month to every six weeks to keep odors and buildup at bay.
- Leave the door open: After each wash, leave the door open to prevent mold and mildew.
- Use less detergent: Using too much soap leads to residue. Always follow the recommended amount.
- Use a self-clean cycle: If your machine has one, activate it monthly with vinegar and baking soda.
Final thoughts
A clean washing machine means fresher laundry and a more efficient appliance.
With just baking soda, vinegar, and a little time, you can eliminate grime, odors, and buildup naturally. Make this a regular habit and enjoy fresh, clean laundry every time.
Next, Try This Easy Baking Soda Hack to Freshen Up Tea Towels.
Comments
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I use ammonia sometimes in my wash. Seems to do the same.
Vinegar and baking soda cancel each other out and if you have an older machine, some do joy have detergent dispensers so we do have to add to drum. As well, vinegar and water will not harm your machine and I myself for years have added to rinse cycle as it softens clothes.