How to Clean a High Efficiency Washing Machine

Anna M
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!

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!


More Washing Machine Cleaning tips

For more brilliant ideas on cleaning your washer read this comprehensive guide on How to Clean a Washing Machine for Fresher Laundry.

Anna M
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Frequently asked questions
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  2 questions
  • Armindo Pacheco 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.
  • Cathy 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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  • Rose Tovey 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.)

  • Elaine Sell Elaine Sell on Apr 11, 2021

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

    • See 1 previous
    • Sue Willette 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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