Your Washing Machine Needs a Bath Too! Here’s How (and Why)

shinosaurcleaning
May 2
3 min read

Let’s talk about something dirty… ironically, it’s your washing machine.

That loyal appliance that tirelessly spins your sweaty gym clothes and ketchup-stained socks? Yeah, it needs a good cleaning too. You might be thinking, “But it’s a machine that cleans. Doesn’t it clean itself?” Oh, sweet summer child. If only.

Here’s why, how, and how often you should clean your washing machine—no lab coat required, just a sponge and a sense of humor.

💀 The Grimy Truth: Why You Need to Clean It

Even though washing machines clean your clothes, they also collect all the gunk that comes with them: detergent residue, fabric softener buildup, hard water minerals, and the occasional lost sock ghost (you know it's real). Add in the warm, damp environment, and you've got the perfect recipe for mildew, musty odors, and the kind of bacteria that makes your towels smell like a wet dog took a nap in them.

Think of your washer like a shower. You use it to get clean, but over time, it needs a good scrub-down too.

🧽 How to Clean Your Washing Machine (Without Calling Your Mom)

Whether you’ve got a front-loader or a top-loader, here’s a foolproof routine:

Step 1: Run a Hot Cycle with Vinegar

Set your machine to the hottest, longest cycle.
Add 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum.
Press start and let the magic (and mild acidity) happen.

Why? Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and mold-killer. It’ll tackle bacteria and hard water deposits without being harsh on your machine.

Step 2: Scrub-a-dub-drum

After the cycle, take a cloth or sponge and wipe down the inside of the drum.
Pay special attention to the rubber seals on front-loaders—this is where mold throws its weird little parties.

Step 3: Run Another Cycle (This Time with Baking Soda)

Add half a cup of baking soda to the drum.
Run another hot water cycle.

This will deodorize and lift any lingering grime like a charm.

Step 4: Clean the Dispensers and Exterior

Remove the detergent drawer (yes, it comes out!) and soak it in warm, soapy water.
Scrub it with an old toothbrush. (Or a new one, if you don’t like your teeth that much.)
Wipe down the knobs, buttons, and the top with a damp cloth.

Optional Step: Leave the Door Open

After every load, leave the washer door ajar so it can dry out. Moisture is the enemy. Mold and mildew are just waiting for a wet party invite.

📅 How Often Should You Do This?

Deep Clean: Once a month. Set a reminder. Call it “Spa Day for the Washer.”
Wipe the seal and door: Once a week if you use your machine regularly.
Leave the door open: Every time, like a boss.

🧼 Bonus Tip: Use Less Detergent

More soap doesn’t equal cleaner clothes. In fact, too much detergent causes residue buildup inside the drum—and can make your washer stink. Use only the amount recommended (and adjust if you have soft water).

Final Thoughts: Clean Machine, Clean Life

Taking 30 minutes once a month to clean your washer means fresher laundry, longer appliance life, and less chance your clothes will come out smelling like a damp cave. And let’s be honest—your washer’s been there for you. It deserves a little TLC.

Now go give that machine a spa day. You’ve earned it.