Your washing machine cleans your clothes, but that does not mean the machine itself stays clean.
Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, lint, dirt and moisture can build up inside the drum, dispenser, filters and rubber seals. These deposits may cause unpleasant smells, visible stains and poor washing results.
If your freshly washed clothes sometimes smell musty, or you notice dark residue around the door seal, your washing machine may need attention. Regular cleaning helps remove accumulated dirt, reduces odours and keeps the appliance in better working condition.
The good news is that you do not need an expensive service visit for ordinary maintenance. With the correct cleaning products and a little patience, you can clean most accessible parts of your washing machine at home. However, always check your model’s manual before removing filters or using cleaning chemicals.
Why Does a Washing Machine Get Dirty?
Every wash introduces water, detergent, fabric softener, body oils, lint and dirt into the machine. Although the rinse cycle removes much of this material, some residue can remain behind.
Over time, detergent deposits may collect inside the dispenser and drum. Moisture trapped around the door seal can encourage mould and unpleasant smells, particularly when you close the machine immediately after a wash.
The problem can become worse when you:
- Use more detergent than the manufacturer recommends.
- Frequently wash clothes on low-temperature cycles without maintaining the machine.
- Leave wet laundry inside for several hours.
- Close the door or lid while the drum is still damp.
- Ignore the detergent drawer and accessible filters.
- Install the machine in a poorly ventilated, humid area.
In Nigerian homes, where laundry routines may involve frequent use and humid weather, these habits can make regular maintenance particularly important.
1. Switch Off the Machine and Prepare Your Cleaning Supplies
Before cleaning, switch off the washing machine and disconnect it from the power supply where the manufacturer’s instructions permit. If you need to work around a filter or water connection, make sure the machine is safe to handle.
Gather the supplies you need:
- A soft microfibre cloth.
- A small soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush.
- A clean bowl or shallow container.
- A towel for catching water.
- A washing machine drum cleaner recommended for your model.
- Mild detergent for accessible external surfaces.
- Gloves where required by the cleaning product instructions.
Avoid using abrasive brushes, sharp objects or strong chemicals that could damage the appliance.
Do not mix bleach, vinegar, ammonia or other cleaning chemicals. Mixing household chemicals can produce dangerous fumes or damage the machine. Also, do not assume that a popular online cleaning trick is suitable for every model.
2. Clean the Drum
The drum is where clothes move during washing, but detergent residue and dirt can accumulate inside it.
First, remove all laundry and check for loose objects such as coins, paper clips, hairpins and pieces of tissue. These items can cause noise, block drainage or damage internal components.
Next, check whether your washing machine has a dedicated Drum Clean, Tub Clean or Self Clean programme. If it does, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the recommended washing machine cleaner.
For a machine with a cleaning cycle:
- Empty the drum completely.
- Add the recommended cleaner in the specified location.
- Select the Drum Clean or Tub Clean programme.
- Start the cycle and allow it to finish.
- Open the door or lid afterwards to let the drum dry.
If your model does not have a dedicated cleaning programme, consult its manual for the approved alternative. Do not automatically select the hottest cycle or pour household bleach into the drum without checking the manufacturer’s guidance.
LG recommends periodic tub cleaning and advises users to leave the door open after washing so moisture can dry. Its guidance also warns against using undiluted bleach as a general tub-cleaning solution.
3. Wash the Detergent Drawer
The detergent drawer can collect soap residue, fabric softener and dirt. If you leave these deposits untouched, they may harden and interfere with the flow of detergent into the machine.
For drawers designed to be removed:
- Pull the drawer out gently.
- Follow the release instructions to remove it completely.
- Separate any removable compartments if the design allows.
- Rinse the drawer with warm water.
- Use a soft brush to remove stubborn deposits.
- Clean the opening where the drawer sits.
- Rinse, dry and reinstall the drawer correctly.
Do not force the drawer if it refuses to come out. Some machines have a release tab or a specific removal mechanism.
Also inspect the detergent compartment for mould or accumulated residue. A small brush can help reach corners that a cloth cannot clean properly.
For better results, avoid filling the drawer beyond the indicated maximum level. Using excessive detergent or fabric softener can leave more residue behind.
4. Clean the Rubber Door Seal on Front-Loading Machines
Front-loading washing machines have a rubber gasket around the door. Its folds can trap moisture, lint, hair, detergent residue and small objects.
Open the door and inspect the entire seal. Gently pull back accessible folds and remove loose dirt using a soft cloth.
If you notice residue, wipe the area with a cleaning solution approved by the manufacturer. Follow the product instructions, then wipe away any remaining cleaner with a clean damp cloth and dry the seal.
Pay particular attention to the lower part of the gasket, where water and debris may collect.
Avoid using sharp objects to remove trapped dirt. You could puncture the rubber and create a leak.
After every wash, wipe away visible moisture and leave the door open until the seal and drum have dried. This simple habit helps reduce the damp conditions that contribute to unpleasant smells.
5. Remove and Clean the Drain Pump Filter
Some washing machines have a drain pump filter that catches lint, coins, buttons and other small objects before they reach the pump.
A blocked filter can cause drainage problems, unpleasant smells or water remaining inside the machine. However, the location and cleaning procedure differ between models.
If your machine has an accessible filter, consult the manual before opening it.
For models with a user-accessible front filter, the general procedure may involve:
- Switching off and unplugging the machine.
- Locating the service cover.
- Placing a shallow container and towel underneath.
- Draining any remaining water through the emergency drain hose, if fitted.
- Opening the filter carefully according to the manual.
- Removing trapped lint and foreign objects.
- Rinsing the filter where the manufacturer permits.
- Reinstalling it securely and checking for leaks.
Be careful because water inside the machine may be hot. Never force a filter that appears stuck.
Some top-loading machines use lint filters inside the drum instead. These may be removable and washable, depending on the model. Clean them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
LG’s maintenance guidance explains how users can clean accessible drainage filters and recommends checking for residual water before opening them.
6. Wipe the Exterior and Control Panel
The outside of your washing machine also collects dust, detergent spills, fingerprints and moisture.
Use a soft cloth slightly dampened with mild soapy water to wipe the exterior. Pay attention to the top, sides, lid, door and areas around the detergent drawer.
For the control panel, use a lightly damp cloth rather than spraying water directly onto the buttons or display. Avoid abrasive cleaning pads and harsh solvents that may damage the finish.
If the machine is installed in a laundry area or bathroom, wipe away water splashes regularly. Keeping the exterior dry also helps prevent rust or damage to vulnerable surfaces.
7. Clean the Water Inlet Filters When Necessary
Some washing machines have small filters where the water supply hose connects to the appliance. These filters help prevent sand and other particles from entering the machine.
If your water supply contains visible sediment, the filters may become blocked over time. You might notice slow filling or reduced water flow.
Check your manual to find out whether the inlet filters are designed for user cleaning.
If the manufacturer permits it, switch off the water supply, disconnect the hose as instructed and carefully remove the filter. Clean it gently with a soft brush, then reinstall it correctly.
Do not pull out internal components or dismantle the water inlet valve. If the machine continues to fill slowly after cleaning the accessible filter, contact a qualified technician.
This is particularly useful where household water comes from storage tanks or other sources that may carry sediment.
8. How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?
The right cleaning schedule depends on the machine, how frequently you use it and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
The following routine provides a practical starting point:
| Washing machine part | Suggested maintenance |
|---|---|
| Drum | Monthly, or according to the machine’s cleaning reminder |
| Detergent drawer | Monthly or whenever residue builds up |
| Door seal | Inspect and wipe after washes |
| Lint filter | Check regularly; clean according to the manual |
| Drain pump filter | Inspect periodically, especially if drainage problems occur |
| Exterior | Wipe whenever dirt or spills appear |
| Water inlet filters | Inspect when water flow reduces or as recommended |
Some manufacturers recommend a monthly drum-cleaning cycle. LG, for example, advises monthly tub cleaning for the models covered by its guidance. The exact interval may differ for other machines.
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning a Washing Machine
Even well-intentioned cleaning can damage an appliance if you use the wrong method.
Using too much detergent: More detergent does not automatically produce cleaner clothes. Excess product can leave deposits inside the machine. Follow the dosage instructions on the detergent packaging and account for the size of the load.
Mixing cleaning chemicals: Never combine bleach with vinegar, ammonia or other cleaning products. Use one approved product at a time and follow its label.
Running a cleaning cycle with laundry inside: Drum-cleaning programmes are generally designed to run with an empty machine. Remove all clothes before starting.
Forcing removable parts: Drawers, filters and covers may have release mechanisms. Consult the manual instead of pulling them aggressively.
Closing the door immediately: Trapped moisture encourages unpleasant odours. Leave the door or lid open when it is safe to do so, particularly if children and pets cannot access the appliance.
Ignoring persistent problems: If the machine continues to smell, leak, vibrate excessively or drain poorly after routine cleaning, arrange a professional inspection.
Keep Your Washing Machine Fresh Between Deep Cleans
Cleaning your washing machine does not have to become a major household chore. Empty the drum after each wash, remove visible debris, wipe the door seal where applicable and leave the machine open to dry.
Use the correct amount of detergent, avoid overloading the drum and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. These small habits reduce residue and make monthly cleaning easier.
Your washing machine works hard to keep your clothes fresh. Giving it the same attention in return helps protect the appliance and gives every laundry cycle a cleaner start.
