Ever finish a laundry load only to notice your clothes don’t feel as fresh or clean as they should? Sometimes it’s just the dirt from heavily worn items, but often the real culprit is your washing machine itself. Most of us forget that the machine needs a good clean from time to time, and neglecting it can leave residue, odors, and even bacteria behind.
Clean the Tub First
Start with the main drum of your washing machine. Pour 1–2 cups of distilled vinegar into the empty washer and run a full cycle using the hottest water setting available. Opt for a long cycle if possible—this allows the vinegar to break down grime, soap scum, and bacteria effectively.
Once that cycle is complete, run a second empty cycle, but this time add a cup of baking soda instead of vinegar. The baking soda neutralizes any lingering vinegar odor while removing leftover residue, leaving the drum fresh and clean.
Don’t Forget the Nooks and Crannies
Cleaning the tub is just the beginning. Detergent compartments, the rim, under the lid, and all visible corners can harbor hidden gunk. Make a paste from baking soda and vinegar, or use a small amount of bleach for a deep clean. An old toothbrush works perfectly to scrub these areas thoroughly. Finish by wiping everything down with a damp cloth to remove leftover residue.
Keep Your Machine Fresh
By making washing machine cleaning a regular habit, your laundry will come out fresher, brighter, and more hygienic every time. A little routine maintenance goes a long way in keeping both your clothes and your washer in top shape.
