How to clean washing machine drum front loader

Front-load washers are a popular style of washing machine, but some owners complain that front-loaders are more likely to develop odors than top-loaders. Learning how to properly clean front loaders has posed problems for many who have transitioned from top-loader machines. As a result, some users find their washing machines plagued with unpleasant odors and mechanical problems due to improper use and cleaning. Such issues can be largely avoided by proper cleaning.

Watch Now: How to Clean a Front-Load Washer to Prevent Odors

Preventing Odors Before They Begin

One key way to keep a washer from becoming smelly is to use the proper amount of detergent. Over time, residue from commercial laundry detergents and fabric softeners may cling to the inside of the washer especially on and behind rubber door seals.

Furthermore, in warm, humid weather or laundry room conditions, mildew or mold may form, particularly if you have forgotten damp clothes in the washer for a few hours.

How Often to Clean a Front-Load Washing Machine

Your washer should be cleaned monthly, or more often if you have exceptionally heavily soiled clothes or live in a hot, humid area. And naturally, you should clean it whenever odors are apparent.

Materials

• Liquid chlorine bleach
• Hydrogen peroxide (optional)
• Non-abrasive household cleanser
• Mild detergent

The Spruce / Olivia Inman

1. Clean the Door and Drum

   Use a soft, absorbent cloth to dry around the washer door opening, flexible gasket, and door glass. These areas should be cleaned and maintained regularly to ensure a watertight seal. It is a good idea to wipe these down with a dry cloth after every load.

   Take the time to clean the inside of the door gaskets and the edges. If dirt and residue get trapped, mold may begin to grow on the backside of the gaskets.

   When extremely soiled or oil-soaked items have been washed, a dirty residue may remain on the drum. Remove this by wiping the drum with a nonabrasive household cleanser, then rinse thoroughly with water. Or, repeat the entire cleaning cycle using chlorine bleach.

   If your washer has any plastic in the drum, it may become stained from fabric dye. Clean these plastic parts with a nonabrasive household cleanser or repeat the bleach cleaning cycle. This prevents dye transfer to future loads.

   The Spruce / Olivia Inman

2. Clean the Dispenser Drawers

   Detergent and fabric softener may build up in the dispenser drawers and cause odor and operational problems. Residue should be removed once or twice a month. Never overfill the drawers to prevent damaging electronic components of the washer.

   • Consult your washer's user manual to learn how to remove the drawer(s). Most have a safety latch but can be removed easily. If the drawer has inserts for the bleach and fabric softener compartments, remove those from the drawer to clean separately.
     
   • Rinse the drawer and inserts with hot tap water to remove traces of accumulated powders and liquids. If they are particularly coated with built-up residue, allow them to soak for 10 minutes in hot water, then rinse. Allow the drawers to air-dry.
   • Use a small soft brush to clean the drawer opening on the washer. Inspect the drawer cavity with a flashlight before re-inserting their cleaned drawer, as the cavity can become moldy if not cleaned thoroughly.
   • Remove all residue from the upper and lower parts of the recess.
   • When the drawer and inserts are clean, return the bleach and fabric softener inserts to their proper compartments. Replace the dispenser drawer and run a short cycle such as the Pre-wash cycle without any laundry in the drum to completely flush the system.
     

   The Spruce / Olivia Inman

3. Clean the Outside of the Washer

   As part of your ongoing routine, wipe the top, and sides of the washing machine weekly, or after each laundry session. Often, merely wiping with a damp cloth is all that's needed. When necessary, clean the exterior surfaces with warm water mixed with a mild soap. Never use harsh, gritty, or abrasive cleansers on enameled surfaces.

   • If the door or console becomes stained or if there is mildew growth, clean with a diluted chlorine bleach of 1/4 cup in one quart of water. Rinse several times with clear water.
   • You can remove any glue residue from tape or labels with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent.
   • Never store or place laundry products on top of the washer at any time. Spills can damage the finish or electronic controls.

   The Spruce / Olivia Inman

4. Run an Empty Laundry Cycle Using Bleach

   With the washing machine empty, add 1/2 cup of liquid chlorine bleach to the detergent compartment of the dispenser drawer, and fill the bleach dispenser compartment with chlorine bleach to the highest level. Set the washer to the normal cycle setting with warm water and complete the cycle.

   This is a good last step in the process. By cleaning the details first, you are ensuring the bleach water is making as much contact with the hard surfaces of the machine as possible. Wiping away the build up first allows the wash cycle has a better shot of killing more germs.

   The Spruce / Olivia Inman

   Tip

   If you do not want to use chlorine bleach, you can use one full cup of hydrogen peroxide instead. Or, use a commercial washer cleaner. Follow the package directions for amount to use and the proper procedure. Do not mix chlorine bleach with other cleaners; the result can be toxic fumes.

5. Maintain a Clean Space

   Keeping your washing machine clean will prevent those unpleasant odors and make your machine function better.

   The Spruce / Olivia Inman

FAQ

• What is the average lifespan of front loading washers?

  Front-loading washers typically will last around 10 years. They can potentially last longer with proper care and maintenance. Keeping the washer clean and using the right amount of the correct laundry soap are two things you can do to help prolong your washer's life.

• Should you leave the door open on a front-loading washer?

  After running a load of clothes through your washing machine, you should leave the door open so it can air dry. This will help prevent mold and odors from developing.

• Does a front-loading washing machine use less water?

What do you put in washing machine for drum clean?

How do I get the black stuff off my washing machine rubber?

What is the best cleaner for a front loading washing machine?

How do I get the black stuff out of my front loading washing machine?