How to Clean a Washing Machine Drum
A washing machine that smells musty or leaves clothes with an unpleasant odour is almost always caused by mould, bacteria or detergent residue build-up inside the drum, door seal and dispenser drawer. The fix is straightforward and takes less than an hour of active effort. Here’s the complete guide.
How Often Should You Clean the Drum?
Once a month is the recommended frequency for most households. If you notice odours before then, clean it sooner. If you use cold water washes predominantly (which is excellent for energy efficiency but doesn’t kill bacteria in the drum), clean monthly without exception.
What You’ll Need
- White vinegar or citric acid powder
- Bicarbonate of soda (optional, for extra cleaning)
- An old toothbrush or small cleaning brush
- A microfibre cloth
- Mild detergent
Step 1: Clean the Door Seal (Front-Loaders)
The rubber door seal (gasket) on a front-loader is the most common location for mould growth. Pull back the fold of the rubber seal and inspect for black mould spots. Using a cloth dampened with white vinegar, clean thoroughly inside all the folds. Use an old toothbrush for stubborn mould spots. Dry the area completely when done.
Step 2: Clean the Detergent Drawer
Remove the detergent drawer completely (there’s usually a release tab — check your manual). Wash it under warm running water using a brush to clear all build-up from the compartments. Check the drawer housing (the cavity in the machine) with a torch — mould often grows there. Clean it with a damp cloth and vinegar.
Step 3: Run a Drum Clean Cycle
Most modern washing machines have a dedicated “drum clean” or “tub clean” cycle. Run it with one of the following:
- 2 cups of white vinegar in the drum (not the drawer)
- OR 2 tablespoons of citric acid powder dissolved in hot water, added to the drum
- OR a commercial washing machine cleaner tablet (Affresh, Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner, etc.)
Select the hottest available temperature (usually 60°C or higher) and run the cycle. After the cycle, leave the door open for at least an hour to allow the drum to dry completely.
Step 4: Clean the Filter (Front-Loaders)
The pump filter (usually accessed via a small panel at the front bottom of the machine) collects lint, coins, hair ties and other debris. Place a towel under the panel before opening — water will drain out. Unscrew the filter cap, remove debris, rinse the filter under water, and replace. Clean this every 2–3 months.
Preventing Future Build-Up
- Always leave the door and detergent drawer ajar after each wash to allow the drum to dry
- Use the correct amount of detergent — excess detergent leaves residue that feeds mould
- Use HE (High Efficiency) detergent in front-loaders
- Run a hot wash (60°C) at least once a month, even if you normally wash cold
- Wipe the door seal dry occasionally, especially in humid weather
Shop Washing Machines at Oceania Appliances
If your washing machine is old or beyond cleaning, we carry front-load and top-load washing machines from LG, Samsung, Bosch and Hisense. Free delivery across Sydney. Visit 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park, call or WhatsApp 0422 489 492, or email support@oceaniaappliances.com.au. Open 7 days, 10am–8pm.