How to clean a front-load washer in 5 steps.

What you'll need.

Before you start cleaning, gather these supplies:

• Clean cloth or sponge
• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Hot water
• Mild detergent or other cleaning solution
• A bucket or large bowl
• A toothbrush or small scrub brush (optional)

Remove everything that’s currently inside your washer, and follow the steps below.

Step 1: Clean the detergent dispenser.

Whether or not you use the detergent dispenser, it can accumulate soap scum over time. Cleaning out the dispenser drawer can help reduce odors and keep your washer working properly.

Some washers have completely removable dispensers, while some don’t detach. Remove the dispenser completely if possible, as this will make it easier to clean.

For stubborn stains or build-up, soak the dispenser in a mixture of hot water and mild detergent for at least 10 minutes. Afterward, thoroughly clean and rinse the drawer. A small scrub brush or toothbrush can make it easier to clean in tight spaces and crevices.

Use a cloth to dry off the dispenser before replacing it. Leave the drawer partially open to allow it to dry completely.

Related: How to clean your washing machine's filter.

Step 2: Run a cleaning cycle with vinegar and baking soda.

Most modern washing machines have a cleaning cycle option. If your machine doesn’t have a cleaning wash cycle, you can run a heavy wash cycle with the water as hot as possible. Self-cleaning cycles vary in how long they take, but some can take up to 2 hours.

Vinegar is a popular cleaner for appliances because it’s non-toxic and highly acidic. Its acidity makes it a great option for killing bacteria and mold without harsh chemicals. Baking soda can also help loosen up tough-to-remove grime and dirt inside your washer's drum.

To clean your front-load washer with vinegar and baking soda, it’s best to run two separate cycles. Using both products at the same time will make each one ineffective:

• First, pour 2 cups of vinegar into the detergent dispenser (not into the drum).
• Run a wash cycle with the hottest water temperature option.
• When this cycle is complete, pour 1/4 cup of baking soda directly into the drum and run the cycle again. You can expect this step to take between 4-5 hours in total.

Step 3: Clean the washing machine door seal.

 Your washing machine door uses a rubber gasket to form a seal that keeps water from leaking out. Over time, the seal can accumulate dirt, lint and other residue.

You should be able to run your finger around the perimeter of the rubber seal to scrape out debris. In a bowl or bucket, combine hot water with a small amount of mild detergent or household cleaner.

With a cloth or sponge, use the mixture to thoroughly clean the space between the gasket and the washer door opening. This step should only take a few minutes, and it will prevent outside contaminants from mixing into your laundry.

Step 4: Wipe down the drum and exterior.

Once the inside of the drum is clean and deodorized, remove any remaining moisture. Either leave the door open to air-dry or use a lint-free cloth to wipe down the inside. This will prevent stubborn mold from returning and causing odors. Check any crevices inside the drum for moisture before moving on to the exterior.

Use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the washer's exterior. Be sure not to use abrasive cleaning products, as these can damage the finish on the exterior. Instead, use a mild detergent or cleaner.

Cleaning the exterior will help reduce the chance of outside contaminants entering the machine. Air-drying times will vary, but this step should only take about 10 minutes otherwise.

Step 5: Perform regular maintenance cleaning.

Roughly every 30 wash cycles, you should perform a deep clean. But you can reduce how often you need to perform a deep clean on your washer with regular maintenance cleaning. Regular cleaning can also make deep cleaning easier and less labor-intensive.

After each cycle, these quick steps can help keep your washing machine clean and odor-free:

• Take the wet clothes out as soon as possible.
• Wipe down the door seal to remove any lint or debris.
• Leave the washer door open to let air circulate in the drum.
• Rinse off the detergent dispenser to discourage soap scum build-up.

Related: How to clean a top-loading washing machine (the right way).

Find pros who can maintain and repair your washer.

Deep cleaning a front-load washer is a relatively simple task for any homeowner. However, if you notice an odor that persists after cleaning, you may need to call a professional. A sewage smell, for example, may mean you have an issue with the drain.

For mechanical problems, you should hire an appliance repair technician. If you want a professional to clean your appliances, you can ask local cleaning services if they deep clean washing machines.

The easiest way to find a professional to help with your front-load washer is with Thumbtack. Download the Thumbtack app today to hire a pro.

FAQs.

How do you clean the rubber seal on a front-load washer?

Follow these steps to clean the rubber seal:

• Remove loose debris from the rubber gasket using your index finger.
• Wet a cloth with a mixture of vinegar and hot water.
• Use the cloth to thoroughly wipe around the rubber seal on the washer door opening.
• Use a cloth that doesn't shed to dry the rubber gasket and keep the door open.

Note: The vinegar will kill any odor-causing mold or bacteria. You can also use bleach instead of vinegar, but make sure not to mix the two.

Why does my front-load washer still smell after cleaning?

Washing machines can develop odors for a variety of reasons. Front-load washers can sometimes allow water to pool in the drum, which can attract mold and mildew. If you notice a sewage smell, the problem is likely with your drain.

Other types of build-up that can cause washing machine odors include soap scum, bacteria and minerals. If your washer still smells after a deep clean, you may have missed the rubber door seal. Or, your machine may have a drainage issue. If the smell persists after several cleaning cycles, you may need the help of a professional.

Can you use bleach or vinegar to clean a front-load washing machine?

Bleach and vinegar are both suitable disinfectants for cleaning a front-load washer. Some homeowners prefer vinegar as a non-toxic alternative to bleach, so use whichever you prefer. Be sure not to mix bleach with another cleaner, as the reaction may create toxic fumes.

Use a mixture of water and your preferred cleaner to wipe down your washer’s drum, detergent dispenser and door seal. For a deep clean, pour either the vinegar or bleach into the detergent dispenser, and run the washer's self-cleaning cycle. Then, use a mild cleaner to wipe down the exterior of the machine.

Related: Impeller vs. agitator washer — which one is better?