How to Clean Washing Machine Drum

Why You Need to Clean Your Washing Machine Drum

Your washing machine cleans your clothes — but who cleans the washing machine? Over time, the drum accumulates detergent residue, fabric softener buildup, hard water mineral deposits, body oils, and mold or mildew from the constant moisture. This buildup causes musty-smelling laundry, visible residue on clothes, and reduced washing performance. Cleaning the drum monthly keeps your machine running efficiently and your clothes truly clean.

How Often Should You Clean the Drum?

• Regular use (4–7 loads per week): Once a month
• Heavy use or hard water area: Every 2–3 weeks
• Light use: Every 2 months
• Immediately: If you notice musty odors or residue on clothes

Method 1: Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets (Easiest)

The simplest and most effective method is to use a dedicated washing machine cleaner like Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner. It's specifically formulated to dissolve and remove residue, odor-causing buildup, and limescale from inside the drum and internal components:

1. Drop one Affresh tablet directly into the empty drum — do not add detergent
2. Run the hottest, longest cycle available (most machines have a dedicated "Clean" or "Drum Clean" cycle — use it)
3. Once the cycle is complete, wipe the drum interior with a clean microfiber cloth
4. Leave the door open to air dry

Method 2: White Vinegar and Baking Soda (Natural Alternative)

For a chemical-free clean:

1. Add 2 cups of white vinegar to the detergent drawer or directly into the drum
2. Run a hot cycle
3. After the cycle, sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda into the drum
4. Run another hot cycle
5. Wipe the drum with a microfiber cloth and leave the door open to dry

The vinegar dissolves mineral deposits and kills bacteria; the baking soda deodorizes and scrubs away remaining residue.

Step 3: Wipe Down the Drum Interior

After running a cleaning cycle, wipe the entire drum interior — including the back wall and the door glass — with a damp microfiber cloth. Pay attention to any visible residue or discoloration. For stubborn spots, apply a small amount of white vinegar to the cloth and scrub gently.

Quick Tips to Keep the Drum Clean Longer

• Always leave the washing machine door open after each cycle to allow the drum to dry and prevent mold growth
• Use the correct amount of detergent — excess detergent is the primary cause of drum buildup
• Use HE (high-efficiency) detergent in HE machines — regular detergent creates excessive suds that leave residue
• Run a hot cycle with no laundry once a month as a maintenance wash
• Clean the drum, filter, and rubber seal together on the same day for a complete machine clean

Recommended Products

• Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner — dissolves residue and eliminates odor-causing buildup inside the drum
• Iberia White Vinegar — natural alternative for dissolving mineral deposits and killing bacteria
• Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths — lint-free cloths for wiping down the drum interior