A Complete Guide to Cleaning Your Washing Machine and Removing Odors

Why Cleaning Your Washer Matters

Many people believe a washer is self-cleaning by design. But with every wash cycle, tiny amounts of detergent and moisture collect in areas you can’t easily see, behind the drum, around the rubber seal, and inside the detergent drawer. Without proper maintenance, this buildup leads to odors, stains, and even costly repairs.

• Better washing results: When the drum, filter, and drawer are spotless, your clothes come out smelling fresh, looking bright, and free of unwanted residue.

• Time and money savings: Simple preventive care keeps your machine running efficiently and helps avoid expensive service calls.

• Smarter use of features: Modern LG washers offer programs like Tub Clean, but even with advanced technology, a bit of manual cleaning ensures every hidden area gets the attention it needs.

• Odor and mold prevention: Keeping moisture-prone parts dry and clean stops mold from forming and keeps laundry hygienic.

The Tools You’ll Need

The best part about washer cleaning is that you don’t need expensive products. Most of the essentials are probably already in your home:

• Warm water – loosens soap and dirt buildup.

• White vinegar – cuts through limescale and neutralizes odor naturally.

• Baking soda – absorbs smells and removes tough stains.

• An old toothbrush – perfect for corners and crevices.

• Microfiber cloth – gentle enough for rubber and steel surfaces.

• Dish soap or washer-safe cleaner – effective but safe for internal parts.

• Rubber gloves – to protect your skin while handling vinegar or strong cleaners.

• A small basin – handy for soaking drawers or filters.

How to Clean Your Washing Machine Step by Step

Here’s a complete walkthrough for refreshing every part of your washer:

This is often the messiest spot, where fabric softener, liquid detergent, and mold love to hide.

• Unplug the washer.

• Pull the drawer out, pressing the blue release tab (on most LG models).

• Soak it in hot water with vinegar or dish soap for 15 minutes.

• Scrub corners with a toothbrush, adding baking soda for sticky spots.

• Dry thoroughly before sliding it back in.

Tip: If it feels stuck, check your user manual before forcing it out.

A clogged filter is a common reason for slow draining and bad odors.

• Disconnect the power and wait a few minutes.

• Open the filter cover at the bottom front of the machine.

• Place a towel or bowl underneath to catch water.

• Unscrew the filter counterclockwise and remove it.

• Remove lint, coins, or debris.

• Scrub and soak the filter in warm, soapy water.

• Wipe the filter cavity clean before reinstalling.

Tip: Make this a monthly habit to keep your washer running smoothly.

The drum is where smells usually start, thanks to damp residue that clings to the interior.

• Empty the washer.

• Add 2 cups of white vinegar or half a cup of baking soda.

• Run the hottest, longest cycle available (Tub Clean on LG washers).

• Wipe the inside with a microfiber cloth.

• Leave the door open for several hours to dry completely.

Note: Don’t overuse vinegar; it can gradually wear down rubber and metal parts.

The rubber gasket traps water, soap, and lint, which can turn into mold if ignored.

• Wipe it dry after each cycle.

• Use vinegar or baking soda with warm water to clean stained areas.

• Reach into folds with a cotton swab or brush.

• Dry thoroughly afterward.

Tip: Leaving the door slightly ajar after washing helps the seal dry faster.

Don’t forget the outside. A clean surface keeps dust and bacteria at bay and makes the appliance look like new.

• Wipe with a soft cloth and mild cleaner.

• For stainless steel, use a proper stainless-steel cleaner.

• Dry thoroughly to prevent streaks.

• Clean buttons and the display gently with cotton or a dry cloth.

Everyday Habits That Prevent Odors

• Keep the door and detergent drawer open for a few hours after each cycle.

• Remove wet clothes immediately once the cycle ends.

• Run Tub Clean monthly if your washer supports it.

• Wipe the gasket and drum after use.

• Avoid using too much detergent or softener, it leaves behind residue.

Dealing with Limescale

• If you live in an area with hard water, limescale can quietly reduce efficiency.

• Run an empty hot cycle once a month with vinegar or baking soda.

• Use descaling products if you notice white spots or buildup.

• In hard-water areas, repeat twice a month.

Quick Daily Care Tips

• Clean the detergent drawer and filter monthly.

• Don’t overload the drum; clothes need space to wash properly.

• Use only the recommended amount of detergent.

• Inspect hoses for leaks or twists.

• Activate the child lock if you have young children at home.

FAQs

Final Tip

Think of washer cleaning as part of your home’s hygiene. By investing just a few minutes each month, you’ll extend the life of your machine, keep your clothes looking brighter, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a fresh, odor-free laundry routine.