How to Clean Your Washing Machine with Vinegar

Banish Odors and Buildup Naturally for a Fresh, Efficient Appliance

Detergent residue, mildew, and hard water deposits can easily accumulate inside the washing machine. Over time, these buildups will cause musty smells while reducing the machine’s efficiency. But fear not! There is a solution: vinegar. Not only is it eco-friendly, but it also acts like a natural powerhouse. Here’s a guide on how to use vinegar to refresh your machine inside and out.

Why Clean Your Washing Machine?

Essentials: clean washing machine with vinegar, natural appliance maintenance, remove mold from washer

Everything needs to be cleaned even those appliances that are supposed to clean! Poorly maintained washing machines can become a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and grime, eventually causing foul odors. Regular maintenance with vinegar will aid in keeping your appliance clean as it acts as a powerful deodorizer disinfectant while also increasing the lifespan of the appliance.

Safety Tips Before You Start

Essentials: cleaning washing machine safely, vinegar cleaning precautions, appliance care guidelines

• Please Read The Manufacturer Instructions: : Some brands may restrict the use of vinegar in some components such as rubber seals.
• Don’t Ever Combine Bleach With Vinegar: Always avoid the combination as it produces toxic gases.
• Use Distilled White Vinegar: Other options tend to be less effective and less safe than this option.

Step 1: Prep Your Machine

Essentials: empty washing machine cleaning, prepare for deep cleaning, appliance maintenance prep

• Clean the lint traps, detergent dispensers, and remove laundry from the appliance first.
• For Front Loaders, use a damp cloth and clear the debris off the drum door seal.
• For Top Loaders, lift and clean the area below the agitator.

Step 2: Run a Vinegar Wash Cycle

Essentials: vinegar washing machine cycle, natural descaling solution, eco-friendly appliance care

• Top-Load Machines:
  1. Fill the drum with hot water on the largest load setting.
  2. Add 4 cups of distilled white vinegar.
  3. Let the machine agitate for 1–2 minutes, then pause the cycle.
  4. Soak for 1 hour to break down residue.
  5. Restart and complete the cycle.
• Front-Load Machines:
  1. Pour 2 cups of vinegar into the detergent dispenser.
  2. Run a hot water cycle on the “clean washer” or “sanitize” setting.

Step 3: Scrub Hidden Areas

Essentials: clean washing machine seals, remove mildew from detergent trays

• Detergent Dispenser: Soak it in warm water and vinegar, then scrub with a toothbrush.
• Door Seal/Gasket: Wipe folds with a vinegar-soaked cloth to kill mildew.
• Drum and Lid: Use a microfiber cloth dipped in vinegar to wipe surfaces.

Step 4: Rinse and Deodorize

Essentials: eliminate washing machine odors, natural freshening hacks

After the vinegar cycle, run an additional hot water rinse to flush loosened debris. For extra freshness, add ½ cup of baking soda to the drum during the rinse cycle.

Step 5: Maintain Your Machine

Essentials: prevent washing machine mold, monthly appliance care

• Leave the door/lid open after washes to air out moisture.
• Wipe the drum and seal weekly with a vinegar-dampened cloth.
• Run a monthly maintenance cycle with 1–2 cups of vinegar.

When to Call a Professional

Essentials: washing machine repair services, stubborn mold removal

If the odors persist or you see apparent mold growth in internal parts, contact a specialist. Persistent concerns could imply hidden leaks or mechanical faults.

Regular vinegar cleans are a simple, cost-effective way to keep your washing machine odor-free and efficient. By tackling buildup early and adopting preventive habits, you’ll protect your appliance—and your clothes—from hidden grime.

Note: Always test vinegar on a small area initially, especially if your machine has sensitive components. For chronic problems, see your appliance manual or a professional.