Learn how to clean a front load washing machine yourself rather than calling in an expert.
Maintaining fresh, clean clothes and prolonging the life of your washer.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step using my own front loader as an example. From tackling soap scum and detergent residue to eliminating any mildew smell, this deep cleaning routine will help you keep your washer running smoothly.
Whether you have a new front load washer or an older front-loading machine, these steps work wonders.
Why Regular Cleaning Matters
Front-load washing machines are known for their efficiency, using less water than traditional top-load washers. However, they can also be a perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. All leading to unpleasant odors that can transfer to your laundry.
Regular cleaning not only eliminates odors but also keeps the washer drum and other parts free of detergent residue. Helping your freshly washed clothes come out smelling fresh.
Supplies Needed for Cleaning
Here’s what you’ll need to clean your front-load washer.
- Microfiber cloth and clean towel
- Old toothbrush or other small brush for scrubbing stubborn stains.
- Spray bottle for applying cleaning solution
- Hot water or hot tap water
- Soapy water or Baking soda, White vinegar, and Liquid chlorine bleach (for deep cleaning and sanitizing).
How to Clean a Front Load Washing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide for Fresh, Clean Clothes
Step 1: Clean the Detergent Dispenser Drawer
Remove the detergent tray from the front loader and soak it in a mixture of warm water and a small amount of liquid chlorine bleach. This will help remove any detergent residue and soap scum buildup.
Use a soft cloth or an old toothbrush to scrub out any hard-to-reach areas in the detergent dispenser drawer.
Rinse the tray thoroughly with warm water before reinserting it into the washer.
Step 2: Wipe Down the Washer Door and Rubber Seal
The rubber seal around the washer door, or rubber gasket, often collects dirt, lint, and detergent residue, which can cause a moldy smell if not cleaned regularly.
Spray a cleaning solution (white vinegar diluted with hot water works well) onto a microfiber cloth and wipe down the inside of the washer door.
Pay special attention to the door gasket or rubber seal. Use the old toothbrush to gently scrub any visible buildup or mildew in the folds of the rubber.
For stubborn stains, add a bit of baking soda and gently scrub with the toothbrush.
Wipe down with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Step 3: Run a Clean Cycle with Vinegar and Baking Soda
To freshen up the washer drum and eliminate any lingering washing machine smell.
Pour 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum and run a hot cycle or clean cycle (check your user manual to see if your machine has a specific cleaning cycle option).
Once this cycle is complete, add half a cup of baking soda into the drum and run another hot wash cycle to neutralize odors and remove soap scum.
Step 4: Clean the Drain Pump Filter
Front-load washers often have a drain pump filter to catch lint, small items, and excess water. This filter should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent blockages and maintain efficiency.
Locate the drain pump filter (refer to the user manual for your specific washer).
Place a paper towel or shallow dish underneath to catch any water before opening the filter.
Rinse the filter under hot water and scrub it clean if needed before reinserting.
Step 5: Wipe Down the Exterior and Control Panel
For the outside of your front-load washer.
Use a purpose cleaner or mild cleaning solution on a soft cloth to wipe down the exterior.
Pay attention to the control panel, detergent drawer, and other surfaces where grime may accumulate.
Step 6: Run a Monthly Cleaning Cycle
For best results and to keep unpleasant odors at bay, run a monthly cleaning cycle with either a washing machine cleaner (like an Affresh tablet) or liquid chlorine bleach. Simply place the cleaner in the detergent tray or drum and select a sanitize cycle or hot wash cycle for thorough cleaning.
Tips for Preventing Front-Loader Odors
Leave the Washer Door Open. After each wash, keep the door slightly open to let the inside dry out, which helps prevent mildew. (My newer machine has a venting option for keeping the door closed, but I’m not so sure it works as well as just keeping the door slightly ajar).
Use the Right Amount of Detergent. Front loaders require less detergent, so avoid using too much detergent, which can cause excess buildup.
Avoid Fabric Softeners in Every Wash. Fabric softener can accumulate over time. Use it sparingly or substitute with white vinegar, which also acts as a natural softener.
Check Rubber Door Seals Regularly. Wipe down the rubber seals around the door weekly to prevent soap scum and mildew.
Conclusion
With these simple steps, your front-loading washing machine will stay clean and odor-free, giving you fresh, clean clothes every time. Following this regular cleaning routine helps extend the lifespan of your front-loader and keep it in optimal condition. Remember, proper maintenance is key, so aim to deep clean your washer every month and follow these tips for ongoing care.
For more visuals, check out my video where I demonstrate cleaning my own front-load washer. Let’s keep your laundry room smelling fresh and your washer performing its best.
Common Front Load Washer Problems
Front-load washing machines are efficient and effective, but they do come with some common issues. Here’s a look at a few typical problems people encounter with front-load washers and some tips on how to address them.
1. Mold and Mildew Build-Up
Problem. The design of front-load washers, with a tightly sealed door and rubber gasket, can trap moisture inside the machine, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew, especially around the rubber seal. This often leads to an unpleasant, moldy smell that can even transfer to your clothes.
Solution. Wipe down the rubber gasket and the washer drum with a microfiber cloth after each use, and leave the door slightly open to allow air circulation. Running a monthly cleaning cycle with a washer cleaner or cups of vinegar on the hottest setting can also help prevent this issue.
2. Detergent Residue and Soap Scum Buildup
Problem. Using too much detergent or not using the right type can lead to detergent residue and soap scum, especially in the detergent tray and washer drum. Over time, this buildup can affect your washer’s performance and lead to a mildew smell.
Solution. Use HE (high-efficiency) detergent, which is specially formulated for front-load washers, and avoid using excess detergent. Running a hot cycle with white vinegar and baking soda can also help clear out residue.
3. Unpleasant Odors
Problem. Front-load washers can develop unpleasant odors if not cleaned regularly. This is often caused by leftover detergent residue, excess water trapped in the drain hose, or debris in the rubber door seals.
Solution. Clean the washer monthly by running a hot clean cycle with an Affresh tablet, white vinegar, or liquid chlorine bleach. Wipe down the washer door and rubber seals after each use to prevent moisture and odors from building up.
4. Water Leaks
Problem. Water leakage can occur around the door seal, usually due to buildup in the rubber gasket or a clogged drain hose.
Solution. Inspect the rubber door seals regularly and wipe them down to remove any debris or buildup. Check the drain hose for blockages and ensure it’s connected properly. For persistent leaks, you may need to replace the rubber gasket.
5. Detergent Drawer Issues
Problem. The detergent drawer in front loaders can accumulate detergent residue or fabric softener buildup, causing blockages and even leakage.
Solution. Remove the detergent drawer regularly and rinse it with warm water. Use an old toothbrush to scrub away any stubborn residue before reinserting it.
6. Drain Pump Filter Clogs
Problem. The drain pump filter can get clogged with lint, small items, or detergent buildup, leading to poor drainage and, occasionally, a mildew smell.
Solution. Locate the drain pump filter (usually found near the bottom of the washer) and clean it every few months. This will help maintain proper water flow and reduce odors.
7. Door Lock Problems
Problem. The door lock on a front-load washer may malfunction over time, preventing the door from sealing properly or opening after a cycle.
Solution. Often, unplugging the machine for a few minutes can reset the lock. If this doesn’t work, check the user manual for troubleshooting or contact a professional if the problem persists, as it may require a part replacement.
8. Excessive Vibrations and Noise
Problem. Front-load washers are prone to vibrations, especially during the spin cycle, due to their high-speed drum rotation. Unbalanced loads or an uneven floor can worsen this problem.
Solution. Make sure the washer is level by adjusting the legs and ensure it’s on a stable, hard surface. Avoid overloading the washer and try redistributing the clothes if they become clumped on one side during the cycle.
9. Slow or Incomplete Draining
Problem. If water doesn’t drain properly, it can be due to a clogged drain hose, pump filter, or an obstruction in the machine.
Solution. Check the drain hose for clogs and clean the drain pump filter regularly. Make sure the drain hose isn’t kinked and is properly connected. If the problem persists, there may be a mechanical issue with the pump that requires professional service.
10. Over-Sudsing
Problem. Too much detergent or the wrong type can cause excess suds, leading to poor rinsing, detergent residue, and even mold growth.
Solution. Always use high-efficiency (HE) detergent in the recommended amount. If you see too many suds, run a rinse cycle with cups of vinegar to break down the detergent.
Just a Few More Bits of Advice on Maintaining Your Front Load Washer
We covered most of the essential maintenance and common issues. Here are a few additional tips and considerations that might be helpful for maintaining a front-load washing machine and addressing specific issues.
Check the Water Inlet Filters
If your washer is filling too slowly or not at all, it could be due to clogged water inlet filters. These filters can trap sediment and minerals over time, particularly in areas with hard water.
Locate the water inlet valves at the back of the washer and inspect the filters. Gently remove and clean them under warm water, using a soft brush if necessary.
Avoid Overloading the Washer
Overloading can lead to poor washing performance, excessive wear on the drum bearings, and increased vibrations.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for load size. Front-load washers perform best with loosely packed loads that allow the clothes to tumble freely.
Use the Self-Cleaning Cycle if Available
Skipping regular self-cleaning cycles, if your washer has them, can lead to odors and buildup.
Many front-load washers have a self-clean cycle specifically designed to keep the drum and internal parts clean. Running this monthly can reduce the need for other deep-cleaning methods.
Inspect and Clean the Drain Hose Regularly
The drain hose can become clogged with lint, soap residue, or small items, which can affect the machine’s ability to drain water fully.
Make a habit of checking the hose for blockages or kinks, and clean it every six months to a year. This can also help prevent water leaks.
Monitor Water Temperature Settings
Using cold water cycles frequently can leave soap residues and reduce the effectiveness of detergent. Hot water is essential for breaking down detergent buildup and bacteria.
Run a hot water cycle at least once a week to help break down residues and keep the washer clean. This is particularly useful if you usually wash clothes on a cold or warm setting.
Use Less Fabric Softener and Avoid Powdered Detergents
Fabric softener can leave a sticky residue inside the washer drum, while powdered detergents may not dissolve fully in lower-temperature washes.
Use liquid HE detergent and a minimal amount of liquid fabric softener, if necessary. Vinegar is a great substitute for fabric softener and can reduce buildup.
Refer to the User Manual for Specific Maintenance Recommendations
Each washer model may have unique maintenance needs or recommendations, so skipping the user manual can mean missing valuable advice.
Review your manual for any model-specific tips. It’s especially useful for understanding how to use the self-clean cycle, locate the drain pump filter, or troubleshoot basic issues.
Use High-Efficiency (HE) Detergents Only
Problem: Non-HE detergents create more suds, which can cause residue buildup and lead to odors.
Only use HE detergents in the recommended amount. Too much detergent can result in excess suds, which contribute to residue and odor issues.
Run a Rinse Cycle After Cleaning
After cleaning the washer with vinegar or bleach, some residues may remain.
Run an additional rinse cycle after deep cleaning to ensure all residues are flushed out, keeping the drum ready for your next load of laundry.
Addressing these common front-load washer problems with regular cleaning, maintenance, and the correct usage of detergent can help keep your washer running efficiently and smelling fresh.
Proper care and regular checks go a long way in avoiding costly repairs and extending the life of your front-load washing machine.
References
Martha Stewart. How to Clean a Front-Load Washer to Get Rid of Odor and Mold.
Whirlpool. How to clean a front loading washing machine: fast & hassle-free methods.