To clean a washing machine, start with an empty drum and use the appliance’s own cleaning or hottest suitable maintenance cycle, following the manufacturer instructions. Then wash the detergent drawer, wipe the door seal and leave the machine dry between loads.
Quick reference chart
| Question | Best answer | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Drum | Empty cleaning cycle | Use the programme and cleaner approved in the manual. |
| Detergent drawer | Remove and rinse | Old product build-up can smell and block flow. |
| Door seal | Wipe folds gently | Moisture and lint collect around the rubber. |
| Filter | Manual first | Not every model has the same safe access route. |
| Afterwards | Door slightly open | Airflow helps the inside dry. |
Step-by-step method
- Unplug the machine if you need to wipe near controls, then make sure the drum is empty.
- Check the manual for a drum-clean programme or the hottest maintenance cycle approved for your model.
- Use only the descaler or washing-machine cleaner and quantity recommended by the manufacturer; do not mix products.
- Remove the detergent drawer if the manual permits, rinse it with warm water, brush away residue and dry it before refitting.
- Wipe the visible door seal and its folds gently with a soft cloth, removing lint or trapped moisture without pulling the rubber.
- Run the chosen empty cycle, then wipe accessible surfaces dry and leave the door and drawer slightly open.
Why does a washing machine smell?
Soap residue, trapped moisture and low-temperature washes can let odours build up. A suitable empty maintenance cycle, a clean drawer and better drying between loads usually help.
Should you use vinegar in a washing machine?
Check the appliance manual first. Some manufacturers do not recommend acidic products for seals or internal parts, so an approved cleaner is the safer default.
When should you clean the filter?
Follow the manual. If the filter is user-serviceable, prepare towels for residual water and never force a cover or fitting.
What to read next
For more practical guides, see how to clean a dishwasher, how to descale a kettle, how to clean a bathroom, Practical Guides hub.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you clean a washing machine?
A light monthly clean is a useful routine, with the exact cycle and product guided by the machine manual.
How do you clean washing-machine rubber seals?
Wipe the visible folds gently with a soft cloth, remove lint and moisture, and avoid harsh products not approved for the seal.
Can you run a washing machine empty to clean it?
Yes, use the machine’s cleaning programme or a suitable empty maintenance cycle as specified in the manual.
How do you stop washing-machine smells returning?
Use the right detergent amount, avoid leaving wet laundry inside, and leave the door and drawer slightly open after loads.
BM_HARD_PUSH_20260823: Appliance-maintenance cluster: dedicated washing-machine care intent; it supports existing dishwasher, bathroom and descaling guides without duplicating laundry advice. Featured visual marker: BM_CLEAN_WASHING_MACHINE_GUIDE_20260823_VISUAL.