Having a clean, fresh smelling washing machine is important for properly cleaning clothes and fabrics. Over time, residue, mold, mildew, and bacteria can build up inside the machine, causing bad odors and unsanitary conditions. Properly sanitizing and deodorizing your washing machine helps kill germs, removes stuck-on grime, and makes clothes smell their best.
Why You Should Regularly Sanitize Your Washer
I periodically deep clean my washing machine to keep it hygienic and prevent odors for several reasons:
- Mold and mildew love the damp, humid environment inside the washer. Regular sanitizing prevents buildup and growth.
- Residue from laundry detergent, fabric softener, and dirt/oils cling to the drum and parts. This needs to be cleaned away.
- Bacteria and germs get washed off of dirty clothes and linens and can spread in the washer. Sanitizing kills these.
- Odors from dampness, residue, and bacteria accumulate over time. A thorough cleaning deodorizes.
Neglecting to sanitize my washer causes stains, foul smells, and can even transfer bacteria back onto clean clothes.
How Often Should You Sanitize Your Washing Machine?
I like to deep clean and sanitize my washer every 1-2 months for the best results. However, here are some general guidelines on how often to sanitize a washing machine:
- With light use (1-2 loads per week) – Every 2-3 months
- Moderate use (several loads per week) – Every 4-8 weeks
- Heavy use (multiple loads daily) – Every 2-4 weeks
Additionally, I sanitize my washer right away if I notice:
- Moldy smells coming from the washer drum or door gasket
- Visible gunk or biofilm buildup inside the machine
- My clean clothes have a funky or mildew odor after washing
Paying attention to these signs and sanitizing accordingly keeps my washer fresh and clean.
How to Sanitize a Washing Machine
I use a thorough, 3-step process to deeply sanitize and deodorize my washing machine :
1. Run a Hot Wash Cycle with Bleach
- I put bleach directly in the detergent dispenser. Chlorine bleach disinfects and kills bacteria.
- I run the machine on the hottest wash setting allowed. Heat helps sanitize.
- I let it complete the full wash cycle for maximum cleaning.
2. Scrub the Machine with a Disinfectant Cleaner
- I use a washer cleaner or all-purpose disinfectant mixed with hot water. This solution cleans and disinfects.
- I thoroughly scrub the drum, door, gaskets and any visible residue with a soft brush. This removes grime.
- I use gloves to protect my hands and avoid transfer of dirt and bacteria.
3. Run a Rinse Cycle with Vinegar or Baking Soda
- I fill the drum with hot water and add white vinegar or baking soda. This deodorizes.
- I run a full rinse cycle. The acidic vinegar dissolves soap scum.
- The baking soda neutralizes odors leaving a light, clean scent.
After completing these steps, I leave the door open to allow my washer to fully air dry. It is sparkling clean, disinfected, and smells fresh.
Tips for a Really Deep Clean
Here are some additional tips I use to get my washing machine extra clean and properly disinfected:
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Every few months, I use a washer cleaner product formulated specifically for deep cleaning washing machines. These contain strong detergents to cut through residue.
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For really tough mold and mildew, I apply bleach directly to affected areas of the machine and let it sit before scrubbing and rinsing. The extended contact time boosts disinfecting power.
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I pull out the detergent dispenser and give it a thorough hand wash with hot water and soap or bleach. This removes built-up grime that can harbor bacteria.
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I use a toothbrush to scrub the door gasket really well. The bristles allow me to remove gunk in crevices.
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I wash any removable parts like filters by hand or in the dishwasher.
Following this complete santizing regimen keeps my washing machine sparkling clean, bacteria-free, and always ready for fresh-smelling laundry. Implementing a regular deep cleaning routine is essential for a germ-free washer and clean smelling clothes.
