How to Clean a High Efficiency Washing Machine

by Anna M

One of our guest contributors explains how to clean an HE washing machine and gives some solutions to why there is a mildew smell, even after cleaning it!

how to clean a high efficiency washing machine, appliances, cleaning tips, home maintenance repairs, how to

Start by cleaning out the inside of the washing machine. Wiping down all of the inside of the wash basin.

Next clean the rubber seal. Simply pull back the rubber to expose what is hiding and growing underneath.

Using a spray bottle, soak the inner ring in undiluted white vinegar or bleach and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Then, using a new rag that is soaked in white vinegar or bleach, wipe down the inner ring again. Then wipe the entire ring dry with a new clean, dry rag.

Finally clean and sterilize all the trays and outer parts.

For more pictures and instructions head over to the link for this post!

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2 questions

Armindo Pacheco on Sep 05, 2016
My problem with my machine is the dispenser for the fabric softener is always full don't empty during cycle Any ideas. ? Thanks.

4
Cathy on Mar 14, 2020

Can you use this same technique cleaning a top loading washer? My massive problem is that I always have white residue on my dark clothing. It is an HE and I only use HE detergent.

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4 of 56 comments

Rose Tovey on Jan 04, 2021

I keep one of my husband's worn out white socks on top of the washer, folded.
After clothes go into dryer, I use it to dry moisture out of the washer rubber seal, stretching the rubber a bit to get it dry. Then I put a quick spray of Lysol disinfectant over the base of the seal.
Also I throw a dry (not thick) bath towel in with dryer load, so it dries faster.
(I tried to email this to you on form, but have no website to fill in that box, so it refused it, tried a couple of things and gave up.)

1 Reply
Elaine Sell on Apr 11, 2021

Can’t open link. Wanted ideas about cause of mildew odor even with clean machinr

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- Deb Loewen on Sep 25, 2021
  
  Hi Elaine. In my last house I had a Samsung HE. After the washing was finished, I would check the space in between the gasket seal on the door for debris and clean up if needed. I lived in a dry climate and would leave the door open for a few hours and then left the door ajar. Mildew odor was never a problem.
  
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- Sue Willette on Dec 14, 2021
  
  If you are using a front end loader there should be a little door at the bottom of the washer. If you open that door place a large towel under the washer and especially under the door. You should see a little cap. Remove the cap and you will get a lot of water with trapped debris. This is run off, if you don't clean this tray out regularly it will smell. It is also really messy so make sure to use a large towel.
  
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