Keeping your washing machine clean is essential for getting fresh, hygienic laundry, and vinegar is one of the simplest tools you can use to maintain your appliance. Many households rely on it because it’s affordable, accessible, and gentle enough for regular maintenance. While vinegar doesn’t replace deep professional cleaning or fix mechanical issues, it can help remove detergent buildup, residue, and lingering odors that naturally develop over time. Using it properly keeps your machine running smoothly and helps your clothes come out cleaner and fresher.
Over time, detergent, fabric softener, and mineral deposits can collect inside the drum, around the rubber seal, and in the detergent drawer. This buildup can trap moisture and create musty smells that eventually transfer to your laundry. Vinegar helps break down this residue because of its mild acidity, lifting deposits that water alone can’t remove. When used correctly, it can restore freshness without requiring harsh chemicals.
Start by emptying the washing machine completely. Remove any visible debris from the drum and check the rubber door gasket if you have a front-loading machine. Wipe away lint, hair, or soap buildup that may be lodged in the folds. Cleaning this area is important because moisture often gets trapped here, causing unpleasant odors. Vinegar can help loosen residue, but manually wiping first makes the process more effective.
Next, remove the detergent drawer if possible and rinse it under warm water. Vinegar can be used to soak the drawer for a few minutes to loosen stubborn buildup. A soft brush or old toothbrush works great for scrubbing corners and small spaces. After cleaning the drawer, place it back into the machine.
To clean the drum, pour about two cups of white distilled vinegar directly into the detergent dispenser or into the drum itself. Run a hot water cycle—preferably the machine’s cleaning or tub-wash setting. The hot water helps dissolve buildup while the vinegar works to break down soap scum and deodorize the interior. This process can leave the drum looking cleaner and smelling fresher.
Once the cycle finishes, open the door and let the drum air out completely. Good airflow prevents moisture from becoming trapped inside, which is one of the main causes of musty odors. You can also wipe the inside of the drum with a soft cloth dipped in warm water to remove any remaining residue loosened by the vinegar.
Another part of the washing machine that often gets overlooked is the filter. Depending on your model, the filter may collect small objects like lint, coins, or hair. Following your manufacturer’s instructions, remove and clean the filter regularly. Vinegar can help remove grime from the filter housing, but take care not to use it on rubber parts too frequently, as excessive use may cause wear over time.
Using vinegar occasionally as part of your cleaning routine can help maintain a fresher machine, but moderation is important. While it’s safe for occasional cleaning, constant or heavy use can be too harsh for rubber seals in some machines. Many appliance manufacturers recommend periodic cleaning with mild solutions, so using vinegar sparingly is a good balance.
Maintaining a clean washing machine doesn’t require expensive products—just a little time, routine care, and attention to areas where residue builds up. When used properly, vinegar can support your regular cleaning routine and help your washing machine stay fresh and efficient. Regular upkeep not only improves the smell and performance of your machine but also contributes to better-smelling laundry
