How to Clean a Washing Machine: Complete Guide for Australian Homes

How to Clean a Washing Machine: Complete Guide for Australian Homes

A washing machine that's never cleaned becomes a breeding ground for mould, mildew and bacteria — which is then transferred to the clothes you wash in it. A musty smell from your laundry is a classic sign that your washing machine needs attention. The good news is that cleaning a washing machine thoroughly takes less than an hour and prevents the problem from recurring with regular maintenance. This guide covers how to deep clean both front loader and top loader washing machines.

Signs Your Washing Machine Needs Cleaning

• Clothes come out with a musty, damp or sour smell
• Visible mould or mildew around the door seal (front loaders)
• Dark residue inside the drum or around the top rim (top loaders)
• Detergent drawer is caked with product residue
• The machine itself smells bad when you open the door

How Often Should You Clean It?

At minimum, run a cleaning cycle monthly. The door seal on front loaders should be wiped dry after every wash. The detergent drawer should be cleaned every 4–6 weeks. A deep clean (including filter cleaning on front loaders) every 2–3 months.

Cleaning a Front Loader Washing Machine

Step 1: Clean the Door Seal (Gasket)

This is the most important step for front loaders. The rubber door seal traps moisture, lint and detergent residue and is where mould most commonly grows.

1. Pull back the door seal folds and wipe the entire inner surface with a cloth dampened with diluted white vinegar or a mould-killing bathroom spray
2. Use an old toothbrush to scrub any black mould spots from the seal folds
3. Wipe dry with a clean cloth

Step 2: Clean the Detergent Drawer

1. Pull the detergent drawer out fully (press the release tab if present)
2. Soak in hot soapy water for 20 minutes
3. Scrub with a brush to remove all detergent and fabric softener residue
4. Clean the drawer housing with a cloth and rinse well
5. Refit the drawer

Step 3: Clean the Filter (Pump Filter)

1. Locate the filter access panel at the front bottom of the machine
2. Place a towel and shallow tray under the access point — there will be water
3. Unscrew the filter slowly, letting water drain into your tray
4. Remove the filter, clean it under running water and remove all lint, coins and debris
5. Refit and secure the filter

Step 4: Run a Hot Cleaning Cycle

Use a dedicated washing machine cleaner tablet or liquid (Finish, Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner, or similar), or add 500ml of white vinegar directly into the drum. Run the hottest cycle available — usually Cotton 90°C or a dedicated “Drum Clean” program if available. This kills bacteria and dissolves detergent buildup.

Cleaning a Top Loader Washing Machine

1. Add 500ml of white vinegar to the drum (or a cleaning tablet)
2. Run the longest hot wash cycle
3. Pause midway through the agitate phase and let the solution soak for 30–60 minutes if possible
4. Allow the cycle to complete and drain
5. Wipe down the inside of the drum and lid with a cloth
6. Clean the detergent and softener dispensers with hot soapy water
7. Run a second rinse cycle with plain water if the smell of vinegar is very strong

Preventing Mould Build-Up in Future

• Leave the door open after every wash (front and top loaders) to allow moisture to escape
• Wipe the door seal dry after every wash (front loaders — this is the single most effective prevention step)
• Use the right amount of detergent: too much detergent leaves residue that feeds mould
• Use HE (High Efficiency) detergent in front loaders and modern top loaders
• Run a cleaning cycle monthly

Need a New Washing Machine in Sydney?

If your washing machine problems can't be solved by cleaning, it may be time for a replacement. Oceania Appliances stocks brand new and quality-refurbished washing machines in Sydney with free delivery. Visit 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park (open 7 days, 10am–8pm), call or WhatsApp 0422 489 492, or email support@oceaniaappliances.com.au.