At a Glance:
How to Clean a Front Load Washer: Materials
How Often to Clean a Front Load Washer
Tips for Cleaning a Front Load Washer
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean a Front Load Washer
6 Favorite Front Load Washer Replacements
FAQs: How to Clean a Front Load Washer
Are you looking for tips and tricks on how to clean a front load washer? Today we are sharing a step-by-step guide on how to clean your washer, including how to clean the seal on a front-load washer, what materials you will need, and how often to clean it.
Explore Front Load Washers at BlvdHome
Looking for a new front load washer? Discover options from top brands like LG, Electrolux, Maytag, and more at BlvdHome, today.
Shop Front Load WashersHow to Clean a Front Load Washer: Materials
Whether you’re looking for materials on how to clean a GE front load washer or another brand, it’s important to know which materials you will need. Make sure you have the following items before starting the process of cleaning your front-loading washer:
- Hot water
- Vinegar
- Bleach
- Scrub brush
- Soft cloth
- Dish Soap
These materials and cleaning supplies will help you get the best results possible, keeping your washing machine and clothes free of common bacteria and mold that can build up inside your machine.
How Often to Clean a Front Load Washer
To keep your washing machine clean and free of unwanted odors, you want to be proactive and have a regular deep cleaning schedule. You should cycle a regular deep clean on your front load washing machine once a month. Be sure to clean your washing machine before you see signs of mold, mildew, or bacteria before you deep clean your washing machine because then it is far more difficult to rid your washing machine of odors. Instead, have a designated day each month that you commit to cleaning both the interior and exterior of your machine.
→ Learn more: Why Does My Washing Machine Smell?
Tips for Cleaning a Front Load Washer
For best results on how to clean a front loader washing machine, follow these special tips:
✓ Regular Wipe Down: Regularly wipe the interior of the drum, including the gasket, even if it’s not a deep clean. Staying on top of this will aid in preventing odor.
✓ Inspect the Seal: Regularly inspect the seal of your washer for signs of mold or mildew and wipe down when needed.
✓ High-Efficiency Detergent: Front-load washing machines are designed to use high-efficiency detergents, so be sure not to use regular detergent as that can cause excess suds that create soap build-up inside the machine.
✓ Clean the Drum: Once a week or so clean the inside of your drum by running a cycle of hot water, white vinegar, and baking soda.
→ Learn more: Which Laundry Detergent is Best?
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean a Front Load Washer
Let’s take a look at this easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide on how to clean a front load washer with vinegar, hot water, dish soap, and bleach. These steps will help you learn the best methods on how to clean a front load washer seal, gasket, and drum, as well as the exterior of your washer.
Step 1: Wipe Down the Door, Drum, Gasket, & Seal
Take a soft, absorbent cloth and clean both the drum and the door of your washer. Be sure to run the cloth along the seal and the gasket as well to remove any standing water. Once you have standing water removed, take a mixture of one part water, one part vinegar, and a tablespoon of dish soap and spray the inside of the washer, being sure to pay special attention to the seal and gasket, as those can be susceptible to mold and mildew. Wash and wipe with a cloth.
Step 2: Clean the Dispenser
Remove the soap dispenser from your washer and place it in a sink or bucket with warm, soapy water. Use your scrub brush to brush off any soap buildup or hard water deposits. Allow it to air dry while you complete the next steps.
Step 3: Wipe the Outside
Take your mixture of water, vinegar, and dish soap and wipe the exterior of the washing machine. This will help you maintain a clean laundry environment, as well as keep your washer new and shiny.
Step 4: Run a Hot Water Cycle
The last step in the process cleans the inside of your washer, as well as kills any remaining mold, mildew, or bacteria. Take ¼ cup of liquid chlorine bleach, add it to the soap dispenser and bleach dispenser, and run a hot water cycle all the way through. You may select the “clean washer” cycle if your washing machine has it.
Step 5: Dry Your Washer
Take a dry, absorbent cloth and wipe down the interior of your washing machine. Leave both the door and the dispenser ajar to ensure a more thorough drying afterward.
→ Learn more: Say Sayonara to Your Stinky Washer
6 Favorite Front Load Washer Replacements
If you have gone through the steps on how to clean a front loading washer, but have found that your washer ultimately needs to be replaced, here are six great replacement options for you to check out.
LG 4.5 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
Shop the LG 4.5 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
This LG front load washer has the solution for even the largest loads of laundry with five powerful jets that spray clothes from all angles, giving you a perfectly clean load of laundry in just 30 minutes. This machine is great for pet owners because when your furry friends get their hair on your sleeve, the trusted Allergiene Cycle removes up to 95% of pet dander and dust, leaving you feeling fresh and ready to tackle the day. If you’re looking for a machine that performs for even the dirtiest of clothes, this LG front-loading washer has you covered.
- Model: WM4000HWA
- Dimensions: 39” H x 27” W x 30.25” D
- Total Capacity: 4.5 Cu. Ft.
Beko bPRO 500 Series 2.3 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
Shop the Beko bPRO 500 Series 2.3 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
Luxurious performance is the best way to describe the Beko bPRO 500 Series front load washer. Its sleek modern design gives an ode to the innovative, powerful efficiency offered with every wash cycle. Enjoy ultimate convenience with the advanced digital control panels and remote access with Beko's smart compatibility.
- Model: WFTV10733XC
- Dimensions: 33.06” H x 23.63” W x 22.81” D
- Total Capacity: 2.3 Cu. Ft.
Electrolux 4.5 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
Shop the Electrolux 4.5 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
No matter the circumstance or soil level of your clothes, this front-load washer has a cycle that offers fast, efficient solutions for even the busiest of households. With features like the Electrolux LuxCare Plus Wash System, 15-minute Fast Wash, Perfect Steam Removal, and Smart Adaptive Dispenser, this white front load washer is sure to impress.
- Model: ELFW7537AW
- Dimensions: 38” H x 27” W x 32” D
- Total Capacity: 4.5 Cu. Ft.
GE Profile™ 5.3 Cu. Ft. Carbon Graphite Front Load Washer
Shop the GE Profile™ 5.3 Cu. Ft. Carbon Graphite Front Load Washer
Experience the power of a true clean with the GE Profile front load washer. From built-in technology to keep your washer free from unwanted odor and bacteria to smart adaptive cycles that learn your needs based on your habits, this front-loading washer is just the thing you need to make laundry day a breeze. To finish it off, this washer has a beautiful carbon graphite finish that makes a statement in any laundry space.
- Model: PFW950SPTDS
- Dimensions: 39.75” H x 28” W x 34” D
- Total Capacity: 5.3 Cu. Ft.
Whirlpool® 4.5 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
Shop the Whirlpool® 4.5 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
This Whirlpool front load washer has a large, 4.5 Cu. Ft. capacity that can handle any type of laundry you throw at it. From bedding and jeans to whites and delicates, this washer has the ideal cycle and drum size for it all. When you need a perfect wash in less time, simply select the Quick Wash Cycle to get a thorough clean in 25 minutes or less.
- Model: WFW5605MW
- Dimensions: 38.63” H x 27” W x 31.56” D
- Total Capacity: 4.5 Cu. Ft.
Maytag® 4.8 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
Shop the Maytag® 4.8 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
Have you ever forgotten about a load of laundry in the washer, only to come back hours later and it has a foul, mildew smell? This Maytag front load washer has the perfect solution for forgotten loads of laundry, with the 16-hour Fresh Hold Option, which circulates air throughout the washer and periodically tumbles your clothes to keep them safe from an unpleasant mildew smell. Wash your clothes before leaving for work or even throw them in at night, with the protection offered by the 16-hour Fresh Hold Option.
- Model: MHW6630HW
- Dimensions: 38.63” H x 27” W x 32.94” D
- Total Capacity: 4.8 Cu. Ft.
FAQs: How to Clean a Front Load Washer
What is the best way to clean a front load washing machine?
The best way to clean a front load washer is by running an empty cycle with either vinegar or bleach to rid the inside of your washer of mold or mildew.
Why does my washing machine smell?
If you’re washing machine smells, it is probably due to the build-up of mold and mildew. Mold and mildew are common problems in front-load washers, as the gasket and seal are susceptible to bacteria that come off of clothes during the wash cycle.
How often should I wipe down my front load washer?
You should wipe down the interior of your washer once a week with hot water and soap. This will protect it from soap scum and bacteria that can cause mold or mildew. Once a month you should deep clean your washer by running a hot water cycle with vinegar and baking soda.
Should I leave my washing machine door open?
Yes, you should leave your washing machine door open if you have a front load washer. This will help circulate fresh air through the washer while it’s not in use, protecting it from potential mold and mildew that could grow in a damp environment.
Why Trust BlvdHome?
The roots of this family business began as early as the pioneer settlement of Southern Utah. One descendant of those 1861 pioneers was Lester Wittwer. In 1928, he started a trucking business with other family members, delivering homegrown fruits and vegetables to many outlying areas. The story of BlvdHome began in 1974 when Lester’s son Tony decided to venture off into the furniture world - with two full-time employees and a small showroom of only 8,000 square feet. Today, BlvdHome has 5 retail locations with over 160,000 sq. ft. of showroom space, located in St. George, Utah, Hurricane, Utah, Cedar City, Utah, Mesquite, Nevada, and a new Las Vegas location. With over 230 amazing team members, BlvdHome continues to deliver on a commitment to customer service that started over 90 years ago.
Shop Front Load Washers at BlvdHome
At BlvdHome, we provide quality name-brand appliances, furniture, and mattresses for great prices. Shop front load washers online or visit us today at one of our locations in Utah or Nevada. In the meantime, browse our website to shop BlvdHome Bargain Barn and check out our flooring selections to increase your home value. More available than ever, our experts at BlvdHome are always happy to help you determine how to clean a front load washer, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Contact us today!
→ Learn more: Why Your Dishwasher's Not Cleaning and How to Fix It