How to Clean a Washing Machine Drum Thoroughly

How to Clean a Washing Machine Drum Thoroughly

A washing machine that smells musty, leaves residue on clothes, or produces dingy-looking whites is usually a machine that needs cleaning. Even though washing machines constantly wash things, they accumulate detergent residue, fabric softener buildup, body oils, mineral deposits and mould — particularly in the drum, rubber door seal and dispenser drawer. This guide explains how to clean your washing machine drum thoroughly and prevent problems from returning.

Why Does a Washing Machine Drum Get Dirty?

Three main culprits:

1. Detergent and fabric softener residue: Modern high-efficiency washing machines use less water. Undissolved detergent and fabric softener can accumulate inside the drum, hoses and dispenser.
2. Mould and mildew: The rubber door seal on front loaders is a prime location for black mould growth, fed by moisture trapped in the fold of the seal. This creates the musty smell many front loader owners notice.
3. Mineral scale: Sydney's moderately hard water leaves calcium and mineral deposits on the drum, heating element and internal components over time.

How Often Should You Clean the Drum?

• Monthly: Run a cleaning cycle; wipe door seal
• Every 3 months: Deep clean with drum cleaner product; clean dispenser drawer
• Every 6 months: Clean filter (front loaders); check hoses

Method 1: Cleaning Cycle with Washing Machine Cleaner (Monthly)

Most washing machine manufacturers recommend a monthly cleaning cycle. Many modern machines have a dedicated Drum Clean or Self Clean cycle — use it.

1. Make sure the drum is empty
2. Add a washing machine cleaning tablet (Finish Machine Cleaner, Calgon or brand-specific cleaner) to the drum (not the dispenser), following the product instructions
3. Select the hottest available cycle (60°C or 90°C) or the dedicated Drum Clean cycle
4. Run the full cycle
5. After the cycle finishes, wipe the drum interior with a dry cloth and leave the door open to air

Method 2: DIY Cleaning with Bicarbonate of Soda and White Vinegar

A cost-effective alternative to commercial cleaners:

1. Add 2 cups of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser drawer
2. Sprinkle ½ cup of bicarbonate of soda directly into the drum
3. Run a hot cycle (60°C minimum)
4. After the cycle, wipe down the drum and door seal

Note: Do not use vinegar and commercial drum cleaners together — use one or the other.

Cleaning the Door Seal (Front Loaders)

The rubber door gasket on a front loader traps lint, hair, moisture and detergent in its fold — ideal conditions for mould growth.

1. Peel back the rubber seal fold all the way around the door
2. Wipe the inside of the fold with a cloth soaked in a solution of warm water and white vinegar, or a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water)
3. Remove any visible black mould with an old toothbrush
4. Wipe dry with a clean cloth
5. Leave the door open after every wash to allow the seal to dry out — this is the single most effective prevention measure

Cleaning the Dispenser Drawer

1. Remove the drawer (press the release tab if present and slide out)
2. Rinse under hot water, using a brush to remove caked-on detergent and mould from the compartments
3. Clean the drawer housing inside the machine with a cloth and warm water
4. Allow to dry before replacing

Cleaning the Filter (Front Loaders)

Front loader washing machines have a drain filter at the front base, behind a small flap. It catches coins, buttons, lint and small objects that could damage the pump. It should be cleaned every 3–6 months.

1. Place a towel on the floor in front of the machine to catch spilled water
2. Open the small access flap at the base front of the machine
3. Unscrew the filter cap slowly (water will drain — have a container ready)
4. Remove and rinse the filter under warm water
5. Refit and screw the cap back firmly

Prevention Tips

• Always leave the door and dispenser drawer slightly open after a wash
• Use the correct amount of detergent — too much causes buildup
• Use HE (high efficiency) detergent in front loaders
• Wipe the door seal dry after the last wash of the day
• Run a hot cycle at least once a week (cold washes alone can accelerate mould buildup)

Shop Washing Machines at Oceania Appliances

If your machine is past caring for, we stock a wide range of washing machines from Bosch, LG, Samsung, Miele and more at our Wetherill Park showroom.

• Showroom: 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park NSW 2164
• Phone / WhatsApp: 0422 489 492
• Email: support@oceaniaappliances.com.au