Clean a Washing Machine Drum (Step-by-Step Guide)
Learn how to clean a washing machine drum the right way. Remove odor, mold, and residue using simple home methods and keep your washer fresh and efficient.
APPLIANCE CARE
2/7/20262 min read
A washing machine is meant to clean clothes. But over time, the drum itself gets dirty. Detergent residue, hard water minerals, fabric lint, and moisture can lead to bad smells, mold, and poor washing performance.
The good news is this.
Cleaning a washing machine drum is simple and does not take much time.
This guide explains why drum cleaning matters, how often to do it, and easy step-by-step methods for both front-load and top-load washers.
Why You Should Clean Your Washing Machine Drum
If your washer smells musty or your clothes do not feel fresh, the drum is likely dirty.
Common problems caused by a dirty drum include:
Bad or sour odor
Black mold or mildew spots
Detergent buildup
Reduced cleaning performance
Shorter machine lifespan
Regular drum cleaning keeps your washing machine hygienic and efficient.
How Often Should You Clean the Washing Machine Drum
Once a month for regular use
Every 2 weeks if you wash frequently or use cold water often
Immediately if you notice smell or residue
Many modern washers also have a “Drum Clean” or “Tub Clean” cycle.
How to Clean a Washing Machine Drum Naturally
Method 1: Vinegar and Baking Soda (Best for Odor)
This is one of the safest and most effective home methods.
What you need
2 cups white vinegar
½ cup baking soda
Steps
Make sure the washer is empty
Pour vinegar directly into the drum
Add baking soda into the detergent tray
Run the longest hot water cycle
Let the washer sit for 30 minutes after the cycle
Run a quick rinse cycle
This removes odor, soap residue, and light mold.
Method 2: Hot Water Only (Quick Maintenance)
Use this method if your drum is not very dirty.
Steps
Empty the washer
Select the hottest and longest cycle
Run the cycle without detergent
This helps flush out loose buildup and bacteria.
How to Clean Washing Machine Drum With Bleach
This method is best for heavy mold and strong smells.
What you need
Liquid chlorine bleach
Steps
Add ½ cup bleach to the detergent compartment
Run a hot water cycle
Pause the machine halfway and let it soak for 30 minutes
Resume the cycle
Run an extra rinse cycle afterward
Do not mix bleach with vinegar or other cleaners.
Cleaning a Front Load Washing Machine Drum
Front load washers are more prone to mold.
Extra steps:
Wipe the rubber door gasket with vinegar or bleach solution
Clean inside folds of the gasket where water sits
Leave the door open after every wash to let moisture escape
Cleaning a Top Load Washing Machine Drum
Top load washers collect residue around the rim.
Extra steps:
Pause the cycle when water fills
Scrub the inner walls and rim using a soft brush
Resume the cycle after soaking
Commercial Washing Machine Drum Cleaners
If you prefer ready-made solutions, drum cleaning tablets and powders are available.
They:
Dissolve residue
Kill odor-causing bacteria
Are safe for internal parts
Use once a month or as recommended.
Tips to Keep the Washing Machine Drum Clean
Leave the door open after washing
Use the correct amount of detergent
Avoid excess fabric softener
Run hot water cycles occasionally
Wipe the drum and door seal weekly
Signs Your Washing Machine Drum Needs Cleaning
Clothes smell bad after washing
Black or brown residue in drum
Slimy feel on drum surface
Visible mold on rubber gasket
If you notice any of these signs, clean the drum immediately.
Cleaning the washing machine drum is a small task that makes a big difference.
A clean drum means fresher clothes, better performance, and a longer-lasting washer.
Make drum cleaning a monthly habit.
Your washing machine and your clothes will thank you.
Read More:
How to install a washing machine
How to level a washing machine
How to connect a washing machine inlet hose