Most of us don’t think twice about tossing dirty clothes into the washer, pouring in detergent, and hitting start. After all, the washing machine’s job is to clean—so it must be clean itself, right? Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Over time, your washing machine collects dirt, detergent residue, fabric softener, lint, and even mold or mildew. Instead of giving you fresh laundry, a dirty washer can leave your clothes smelling musty, feeling grimy, or looking dull.
Just like your car, your air conditioner, or your coffee maker, your washer needs regular maintenance. The good news? Giving it some TLC once a month can make a world of difference.
At Tampa Laundry Company, we keep our commercial machines spotless so your laundry always comes out clean and fresh. And today, we’re sharing exactly why (and how) you should clean your own washer monthly at home.
Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Matters
1. Eliminates Odors
If your clothes come out smelling less than fresh, the culprit may not be your detergent—it may be your washer. Mold and mildew thrive in damp, dark environments, and washing machines are the perfect breeding ground. Monthly cleaning keeps odors away.
2. Improves Cleaning Power
Detergent residue and fabric softener can coat the inside of the drum and hoses, preventing water from flowing efficiently. This means clothes don’t rinse properly and may come out looking dingy.
3. Prevents Mold & Mildew Growth
Front-loading machines in particular are prone to mold around the rubber door seal. Without regular cleaning, mold can spread and even stain your clothes.
4. Extends the Life of Your Machine
A clogged, grimy machine has to work harder to do its job. By keeping it clean, you’re reducing strain on the motor, drum, and pumps—helping your washer last years longer.
Signs Your Washer Needs Cleaning
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Clothes smell sour even after washing
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Visible buildup or residue inside the drum
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Musty odor inside the machine
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Excess suds appear even without detergent
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Washer makes unusual noises or drains slowly
If you notice any of these, don’t wait—your washer is telling you it needs attention now.
What You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy supplies to clean your washing machine. A few simple household items will do:
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White vinegar (disinfects and deodorizes)
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Baking soda (neutralizes odors and scrubs gently)
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Microfiber cloth or sponge
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Old toothbrush (for hard-to-reach spots)
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Optional: Commercial washing machine cleaner tablets
Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Washing Machine
For Front-Loading Washers
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Clean the Rubber Seal (Gasket)
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Gently pull back the rubber door seal.
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Wipe away trapped lint, hair, or detergent scum.
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Use a toothbrush dipped in vinegar to scrub away mold or mildew.
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Clean the Detergent Drawer
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Remove the drawer and rinse under hot water.
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Use vinegar and a brush to scrub buildup.
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Wipe the compartment before replacing.
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Run a Cleaning Cycle
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Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the drum.
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Add 1/4 cup of baking soda into the detergent dispenser.
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Run the hottest, longest cycle with no clothes inside.
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Wipe and Air Dry
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After the cycle, wipe the drum, seal, and glass door dry.
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Leave the door open for several hours to prevent moisture buildup.
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For Top-Loading Washers
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Fill the Drum with Hot Water
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Set to the largest load and hottest water setting.
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Let the washer fill before adding cleaners.
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Add Vinegar and Soak
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Add 4 cups of white vinegar.
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Agitate for 1 minute, then pause and let soak for 1 hour.
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Scrub the Drum and Lid
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While soaking, dip a cloth in vinegar and scrub the lid, knobs, and agitator.
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Finish the Cycle
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Resume and let the machine finish its cycle.
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Run a second rinse with 1 cup of baking soda for freshness.
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Extra Tips to Keep It Clean
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Leave the door open after every wash to let moisture escape.
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Use the right detergent—HE washers need high-efficiency soap to prevent residue.
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Go easy on fabric softener, which causes buildup.
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Clean the lint trap or filter monthly if your washer has one.
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Wipe down the drum every few washes for a quick refresh.
Store-Bought Options
Not into DIY? Washing machine cleaner tablets work just as well. Products like Affresh®, Tide Washing Machine Cleaner, and natural enzyme-based cleaners are safe and effective. Just follow the directions on the label.
At Tampa Laundry Company, we use professional-grade cleaners to keep our machines in top shape—because clean machines = cleaner clothes.
Why It Matters for You
Think of your washer as the foundation of your laundry routine. If it’s dirty, no amount of detergent or fabric softener can truly make your clothes fresh. By giving it a simple monthly clean, you’ll:
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Save money on repairs and replacements
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Enjoy fresher-smelling laundry
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Prevent mold and mildew buildup
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Extend the life of your clothes and your machine
Final Thoughts
It might seem odd to clean something designed for cleaning, but your washing machine needs regular care just like any other appliance. Spending just 30–60 minutes once a month will pay off with fresher clothes, better performance, and peace of mind.
At Tampa Laundry Company, we guarantee our machines are spotless before every load—because your clothes deserve the best. If you’d rather skip the hassle of home maintenance and laundry altogether, let us do it for you with our professional wash-dry-fold service.
🩵 Remember: A clean machine = clean laundry.