How to clean washing machine: Step-by-step guide

Regularly cleaning your washing machine is just as important as cleaning your clothes. Over time, detergent residue, limescale, and trapped moisture can cause mould, unpleasant odours, and even reduce the efficiency of your appliance. A well-maintained washer not only extends its lifespan but also ensures every laundry load comes out fresh and hygienic.

In this guide, Electrolux explains how to clean washing machine step by step including the drum, tub, filter, and door using both natural remedies and dedicated cleaning products like our Electrolux Washing machine cleaning care product.

Before starting, gather these essentials:

• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Warm water
• Microfibre cloth or sponge
• Small brush (e.g. toothbrush)
• Electrolux Washing Machine Cleaning Care Product for deep cleaning

Step 1: Empty machine and run a hot water cycle

Start by running your washing machine on its hottest setting with an empty drum. This loosens dirt, bacteria, and detergent build-up inside the tub.

• For a natural boost, add two cups of white vinegar directly into the drum.
• Sprinkle half a cup of baking soda into the detergent drawer.
• Run a full hot cycle.

This method helps deodorise and disinfect while removing mild residue.

Alternative, users are encouraged to add Electrolux Clean & Care 3-in-1 to Your Monthly Appliance Cleaning Routine. It’s specifically formulated to tackle the common issues that affect performance and cleanliness. It descales, degreases, and hygienically cleans in one easy step.

Read more: A complete guide on how to use washing machine

Step 2: Clean internal parts

Your washer’s hidden parts often trap residue, so give them a thorough clean.

By using Electrolux washing machine clean and care cleaning powder. An effortless maintenance Clean & Care 3 in 1 removes limescale, degreases and cleans the pipes and inner workings of your appliance.to help keep your washing machine performing at their best.

Softener dispensers

Remove the detergent/softener drawer and soak it in warm soapy water. Use a small brush to scrub away mould, detergent build-up, and hidden grime.

How to clean washing machine filter

The filter collects lint, coins, hair, and small debris. To clean it:

1. Open the filter hatch (usually at the bottom front).

2. Place a towel underneath to catch water.

3. Remove and rinse the filter under running water.

4. Dry and reinstall securely.

Cleaning the filter regularly helps prevent drainage problems and unpleasant odours.

Step 3: Clean external part (door and rubber seal)

Your washing machine’s door and rubber gasket are often overlooked but can be the biggest sources of mould and unpleasant smells. Moisture and detergent residue easily collect in these areas, so regular cleaning is essential.

• Wipe the glass door with a damp cloth.
• Clean the rubber gasket around the door using a vinegar and water solution.
• Pay attention to folds where mould and detergent residue often hide.

Pro tip: Always leave the door slightly ajar after a wash. This prevents trapped moisture and helps stop mould from developing.

Step 4: Clean washing machine drum & tub

The drum and tub are where odours and detergent residue build up most.

• Run a hot empty cycle with vinegar + baking soda for natural cleaning.
• Alternatively, use a dedicated cleaning product for stronger results.

Read more:

• Frequently asked questions about front load washers
• Things to know about front-load washing machines

DIY or Dedicated product: Which is better?

When it comes to cleaning your washing machine, you can choose between DIY home remedies or specialised cleaning products. Each has its advantages, but knowing the difference helps you decide what’s right for your machine.

DIY: Vinegar and baking soda

Pros

• Affordable, natural, and eco-friendly.
• Great for deodorising and removing mild detergent residue.

Cons

• Less effective on stubborn limescale and bacteria build-up.
• Frequent use of vinegar can weaken rubber seals over time.

Dedicated cleaning products

Specially designed washing machine cleaners are formulated to target the problems home remedies can’t always solve. They typically:

• Break down limescale build-up.
• Remove detergent residue from hard-to-reach areas.
• Kill bacteria and mould that cause odours.
• Work safely across internal parts such as the drum, tub, and filter.

Because they’re designed for appliances, they’re generally more effective and longer lasting compared to household items like vinegar or baking soda.

Among the trusted options is the Electrolux Washing Machine Cleaning Care Product. It’s specially formulated to:

• Remove limescale and detergent residue.
• Neutralise odours.
• Eliminate bacteria in hidden parts of the washer.

Unlike DIY methods, this cleaner is designed to reach all areas — from the drum and tub to the filter and internal components — ensuring a deeper, longer-lasting clean that keeps your washer running efficiently.

Tips to keep washing machine clean longer

1. Before every wash, give your clothes a thorough going over before putting them in to remove loose coins, tissue or paper from pockets. Shake off excess dirt from heavily soiled garments.

2. After the cycle finishes, immediately take the clothes out.

3. After washing, immediately wipe the rubber gasket, and keep the door and drawer ajar to dry out the interior and prevent moulds and odours.

4. Occasionally use a water softening powder to slow limescale buildup.

5. Use only the correct amount of detergent and softener for your load. Otherwise, you risk damaging your clothes and leaving more residue in the drum. Most Electrolux washing machines have an AutoDose feature that helps to measure for you based on your load so you get it right every time.

Check out our maintenance services for your washing machine:

• Washing machine cleaning service at home
• Washing machine cleaning service at Electrolux service centre

Clean machine = clean clothes

Now you know how to clean a washing machine. The key is to choose a washing machine with a self-cleaning feature like the Elite Care 300 Top Loading Washing Machine with Tub Clean. Other machines also add an extra layer of hygiene like the UltimateCare 700 Front Load Washing Machine with HygienicCare that removes 99.9% of germs in clothes

Discover more high-quality washing machines from Electrolux Malaysia: