06-04-2025
The average washing machine smells 'like a swamp' — here's how to clean it, according to an expert
'The average person does not clean their washing machine enough, or ever,' says Sarah McAllister, the founder and CEO of Calgary cleaning company GoCleanCo. "It's usually the dirtiest thing in the houses we clean, often smelling like a swamp.'
Any household machine that uses water — from a washing machine to a dishwasher — needs to be properly sanitized. That's because warm, moist environments are prone to a buildup of mould and mildew. If you don't keep your washing machine clean, your clothes won't be able to get properly refreshed either. They could even smell musty when you pull them out of the drum.
'It may seem like a daunting task when you're staring down the barrel of a stinky, mouldy machine,' says McCallister. 'But if you deep-clean your washer once, then the upkeep is a breeze.' Here, she shares her top tips for maintaining a mould- and mildew-free washing machine, including the top products for the job.
'Don't wait until it smells or shows mould,' says McAllister. Instead, aim to run it through a bleach or washing machine cleaner cycle once per month.
Once you've completed your laundry for the day, make sure you leave the door and detergent drawer slightly open so the water can evaporate. This practice will prevent mould, mildew and stinky odours.
Only use products that are intended for your washing machine. McCallister loves bleach because it works well and is cheap. She also recommends Tide Washing Machine Cleaner: 'Use it once a month as directed for upkeep, or once a week for three weeks if your machine stinks to high heaven.' For scrubbing, opt for Clorox scrub brushes. 'They are small enough to fit in the seal and the bristles aren't too stiff.'
Quick shop:
Follow McAllister's steps for a washer that looks and smells new:
If you'll be using bleach, change into old clothes.
Using paper towels, wipe out the rubber seal of the machine. Warm water on a cloth will soften spilled detergent.
Pour about half a cup of bleach into the rubber seal and scrub it all the way around with a brush. Wipe out the bleach with paper towels.
If mould remains, place a bleach-soaked paper towel in the seal for 20 minutes, then repeat scrubbing. 'If the mould has been there a hot minute, you may be stuck with the stain and it's a good idea to replace the seal,' says McAllister.
Remove your detergent drawer or dispenser cup and soak it in hot water to loosen detergent buildup. Scrub all of the drawer's components. If you notice mould, add a little bleach to the hot water and continue scrubbing. If you notice a white mineral buildup from hot water, you can soak the drawer in vinegar. Remember: Do not mix vinegar and bleach.
Next, check the compartment where your detergent drawer sits, as it's a common place for mould to grow. Scrub the area with bleach and then dry it with paper towels.
To clean the drum, run an empty load on the longest, hottest cycle. Add bleach to the bleach dispenser or use a store-bought washing machine cleaner.
Wipe down the dusty, linty exterior. 'Use some Windex to really shine it up,' says McAllister.
Quick shop:
The process will mostly be the same; however, upkeep for top loaders is typically easier because front loaders often have sitting water or built-up detergent in the seal. If you have a front-loading washing machine, make sure you clean and drain the filter. Simply look up the make and model of your machine to find instructions online.
Be gentle when scrubbing. However, it's even better to simply replace it to prevent leaks. 'Google your make and model,' suggests McAllister. 'You might be able to replace it yourself. It's not as difficult as it seems.'
Ready to give your washing machine a little TLC? Here's everything you need to know about McAllister's favourite products, plus a few Amazon bestsellers.
"Straight bleach is honestly so good and so cheap for a deep clean," says McAllister. With more than 5,000 five-star reviews, Clorox's disinfecting bleach kills 99.9 per cent of viruses and bacteria and is perfect for use in the laundry, bathroom, kitchen or on high-touch surfaces.
A favourite of McAllister's, Tide's Washing Machine Cleaner is designed to remove residue and deposits from the interior of your washer — whether you have a high or non-high efficiency machine. "It's easy to use," says one Amazon reviewer. All you have to do for a machine with a "pleasant smell" is toss in a packet and run a cycle.
This brush has "bristles that aren't too stiff," says McAllister, which makes it ideal for reaching into the crannies of a washing machine seal. The handle is also removable and the body is flexible so you can scrub the contours of a round drum. One Amazon reviewer says the purchase is "well worth it."
On a budget? This box of 25 washing machine cleaner tablets will last for up to two years. Not only that, but it has a rating of 4.5 stars after more than 13,500 reviews. Amazon shoppers say it's "super powerful" and "good value."
Paper towels are a household staple. Stock up on the equivalent of 20 rolls with this value set. Bounty paper towels are Amazon's Choice because they're sturdy and thick — the "strongest, paper towels on the market," say reviewers. Plus, each roll lasts an exceptionally long time.
Vinegar isn't just for salad dressing. It's also effective for cleaning of all kinds — from tackling minerals in your detergent drawer, dissolving limescale on shower heads and faucets or removing buildup in humidifiers. Reviewers say it "cleans your house without harsh chemicals," which makes it healthier for humans, pets and the environment. A total classic with a 4.8-star rating, Windex is the go-to spray for cleaning glass and removing fingerprints and smudges. Use it to clean the exterior of your washing machine. "It delivers outstanding results every time," says one Amazon customer.
Protect your hands from bleach and vinegar with these reusable rubber gloves. They come in three sizes (small, medium and large) and are multi-purpose — for cleaning the washing machine, dishes, toilet and more. Reviewers say they are "nice and long" so you won't accidentally slip water or chemicals inside.
