How to Clean Top Load Washing Machine

Do Top Load Washers Need Cleaning?

Yes — top load washing machines accumulate detergent residue, hard water mineral deposits, body oils, and bacteria just like front loaders. Without regular cleaning, they develop musty odors, leave residue on clothes, and become less efficient over time. The good news: top loaders are generally easier to clean than front loaders because there's no rubber gasket to deal with.

How Often Should You Clean a Top Load Washer?

• Once a month for regular use
• Every 2 weeks if you wash heavily soiled items or have hard water
• Immediately if you notice odors or residue on clean clothes

Method 1: Washing Machine Cleaner (Easiest)

1. Drop one Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner tablet into the empty drum
2. Run the hottest, longest cycle available — use the "Clean Washer" cycle if your machine has one
3. After the cycle, wipe the drum, lid interior, and agitator with a damp microfiber cloth
4. Leave the lid open to air dry

Method 2: White Vinegar and Baking Soda

1. Set the washer to the hottest, largest load setting
2. As the drum fills with water, add 4 cups of white vinegar
3. Let the machine agitate for 1 minute, then pause and let soak for 1 hour
4. Resume and complete the full cycle
5. Run a second cycle with 1 cup of baking soda added to the drum
6. Wipe down all surfaces with a microfiber cloth after the second cycle

Step 3: Clean the Agitator

The agitator (the central post in traditional top loaders) accumulates significant buildup in its fins and base:

• Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle
• Spray the agitator thoroughly and let sit 5 minutes
• Scrub with an old toothbrush, paying attention to the fins and base
• Wipe clean with a damp microfiber cloth

Step 4: Clean the Lid and Exterior

• Wipe the lid interior, rim, and exterior with a cloth dampened with white vinegar solution
• Clean the detergent dispenser if your model has one — remove and soak in warm soapy water
• Wipe the control panel with a barely damp cloth — avoid getting water into buttons or displays

Quick Tips for Top Load Washer Maintenance

• Always leave the lid open after each cycle to allow the drum to dry and prevent odor
• Use HE detergent in HE top loaders — regular detergent creates excess suds that leave residue
• Don't overload — clothes need room to move for proper rinsing
• Run a monthly hot maintenance wash with Affresh to stay ahead of buildup

Recommended Products

• Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner — dissolves residue and eliminates odor in top load washers
• Iberia White Vinegar — natural cleaner for agitator, drum, and mineral deposit removal
• Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths — for wiping all interior and exterior surfaces