How to Clean a Front-Load Washer to Get Rid of Odor and Mold

Doing laundry is a necessary part of a household cleaning routine—but one aspect that might get overlooked is cleaning the washing machine itself. If you have a front-load washing machine, you'll want to pay particular attention to making sure it's cleaned regularly, as failure to do so can mean a musty machine and clothes that smell even after they've been washed. Ahead, we spoke with cleaning experts to learn how to wash a front load washer as well as how often you should and tips for keeping it in good working shape between deep cleanings.

Materials Needed

• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Bleach
• Microfiber cloth
• Toothbrush
• Soft-bristled or nylon brush
• Water
• Spray bottle
• Washing machine cleaner tablets (optional)

Instructions

1. Open your washer door, and check for any signs of visible debris like hair, change, or lint and remove those.
2. Pull back the rubber gasket and check for and remove debris from between the front of your washer and the drum.
3. Mix a one-to-one cleaning solution of water and white vinegar in your spray bottle.
4. Spray down the gasket and the inside of the washing machine with the vinegar mixture, and wipe clean with a dry cloth. Alternatively, you can also make a mixture of baking soda and vinegar and scrub down the interior surfaces like the gasket, drum, and filter with a soft-bristled or nylon brush.
5. If you have washing machine cleaner tablets on hand, you can now add one to the washer drum and select a "Clean Washer" cycle, and let it run until it's finished. If you don't have washing machine cleaner tablets, add 2 cups of vinegar to the drum and run a hot water cycle.

How Often You Should Clean a Front-Load Washer

Front-load washers should be cleaned monthly at a minimum or after 30 washes, whichever comes first. "I recommend creating a regular cleaning schedule for your washer—either on your calendar or a reminder in your phone—to ensure your appliance is consistently cleaned," says Herman.

Signs Your Front-Load Washer Needs to Be Cleaned

You may need to clean your washer more frequently if you notice certain signs like foul odor. Here are a few signs you should clean your washer ASAP:

• Musty or mildew odor coming from the washer
• Musty or mildew odors coming from your just-washed clothes, sheets, or towels
• Visible debris

"Any time you notice a foul smell around the washer, or on your clean laundry itself (whether that’s towels, sheets, or even your clothes), that’s generally an indication that your washer has bacteria or mold present and it’s time for a cleaning," says Katie Dills, brand president of The Cleaning Authority.

Common Causes of Washing Machine Odor

Lingering odors and smells can come from a few different sources, our experts say. "Water collection, humidity, and insufficient draining can create a moist environment ideal for mold and mildew growth," says Marla Mock, president of Molly Maids, a Neighborly company. "Also, the accumulation of dirt, detergent, and fabric softener residue can contribute to foul odors and debris buildup."

Tips for Keeping Your Front-Load Washer Clean

There are a few things our experts recommend to keep your front-load washer as clean as possible in between regular cleanings.

Keep Interior Surfaces Dry

Wipe down the interior surfaces, says Mock. "Regularly wipe down the interior surfaces of the washer, especially the rubber gasket, to remove moisture and prevent mold growth," she says.

Keep the Door Open

In between wash cycles, you'll want to keep the door open. "Leave the door ajar between wash cycles to allow for air circulation and drying," Mock says.

Clean Dispensers and Filters

Regularly cleaning the detergent dispenser and filter helps prevent residue buildup and unseemly odors.

Use the Proper Amount of the Correct Detergent

Front-load washers require far less detergent than their top-load counterparts, and using more than you should just adds to residue buildup that causes odors. "Combat the buildup of scum and odor long term by using a detergent specifically created for high-efficiency washers," says Dillis. "Be sure to follow the instructions on how much to use as front-load washers require less detergent—so you want to avoid pouring excessive amounts into the filler."

Add Vinegar to Your Wash Cycles

In addition to using less detergent, adding vinegar to your loads of laundry can also help combat odors, says Mock.

Clean the Wash Drain

The last thing you want is a clogged wash drain, which can cause water not to drain properly and lead to mold growth. "Consider cleaning the washer drain periodically to ensure proper drainage and prevent clogs," Mock says.