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

What you'll need.

Before we dive into the cleaning process, make sure you have the following supplies on hand:

• Distilled white vinegar
• Baking soda
• A microfiber cloth
• Hot water
• Old toothbrush (optional)

Check your owner's manual to learn whether it has a self-cleaning cycle and how to use it. Even if it doesn't, this is a good way to determine the longest cycle option available on your machine.

Related: Top-load vs. front-load washer — which one should you buy?

Step 1: Empty your top-loader.

First, you’ll need to make sure the washing machine is empty. Start by emptying the drum to remove any clothing, towels, sheets, etc.

After you’ve emptied the drum, check the detergent and fabric softener dispensers to make sure they’re clear as well.

Step 2: Clean the detergent and fabric softener dispensers.

Clean the fabric softener and detergent dispensers of your top loader. Over time, these areas can accumulate detergent residue and fabric softener build-up, leading to unpleasant odors and reduced cleaning performance.

Complete the following steps:

• Remove the dispensers completely from the washing machine, if applicable.
• Soak the dispensers in a mixture of equal parts hot water and vinegar for about 10-15 minutes.
• Scrub the dispensers with an old toothbrush to remove stubborn dirt and grime.
• Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away any remaining grime or build-up.

Rinse the dispensers thoroughly and let them dry completely before placing them back in the washing machine.

Step 3: Run a cleaning cycle with vinegar, baking soda and hot water.

Place your top-loading washer on a suitable wash setting (the hottest and longest, ideally), so it begins to fill with hot water. However, be ready to stop the process just before it’s full and the agitator starts working. 

Now that the dispensers are clean and your washer is filled with water, it's time to run a cleaning cycle. For this, you can use vinegar and baking soda. 

Vinegar is a natural and effective cleaner that helps remove stubborn residues, grime and odors from the drum, giving it a thorough washing:

• Pour ¼ cup of vinegar and 2 scoops of baking soda into your top loader.
• Set your washing machine to self-cleaning mode (if it has one). Or, set it to the hottest water setting and the longest cycle option. Some models have a “Tub Clean” or “Clean Tub” button that you can push to activate this step.
• Let the machine run through the entire cycle, including the rinse cycle.
• Once the cycle is complete, open the lid and let the drum air dry for a while.

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

Step 4: Clean the filter and lint trap.

Most top-loading washing machines come with lint traps and inlet filters that need periodic cleaning. Check your machine's user manual to see if it has filters or lint traps and where they're located. Then, follow the manufacturer's instructions to clean them.

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

Step 5: Wipe down the washer's exterior.

Once you've finished washing the inside of the washing machine, move on to cleaning the outside. 

Wipe down the machine with a damp cloth and a few drops of vinegar. This will remove dirt and grime from the exterior. Be sure to include all the buttons and knobs, as they can accumulate grease and dirt. 

Tip: You can also pour water and vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray your washer's exterior with the solution, and wipe dry.

Local pros can help clean and fix your washer.

By following these cleaning tips and guidelines, you'll keep your washing machine running smoothly. However, if you need a professional's help with maintaining or repairing your appliance, turn to Thumbtack.

Whether you need a washing machine repair service, a plumber or a house cleaner, Thumbtack has you covered. Download the app today and start getting free price quotes for your project.

Related: How to clean a dryer.

FAQs.

Do top-loading washing machines have a filter that needs to be cleaned?

According to Maytag, "Most top load washers made after 2001 do not have washer filters in their drainage system. Instead, newer models utilize a more powerful drain pump and larger drain holes. If you have a model made before 2001, you can find the washer filters at the bottom of the washer drum underneath the agitator.”

The filter traps lint, dirt and other debris from the wash water and spin cycle. It should be checked and cleaned regularly to avoid clogs and ensure the filter is operating properly.

If the filter hasn't been cleaned in a while (or if you recently washed a particularly large load), it's important to clean it more thoroughly.