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A washing machine is designed to clean clothes, but over time, it can collect dirt, detergent residue, and mold. This can lead to bad smells and even affect your laundry. One of the best ways to deep clean your washing machine is using bleach. If you’re wondering how to clean washer with bleach, this guide will walk you through the process safely and effectively.
Why Should You Clean Your Washer?
Washing machines handle dirty clothes every day, and without regular cleaning, they can develop:
- Mold and mildew buildup in the drum and detergent tray
- Bad odors that transfer to clothes
- Soap scum and residue affecting washing efficiency
- Bacterial growth in hidden areas
Cleaning your washer with bleach helps remove these problems and keeps your machine running efficiently.
What You Need to Clean a Washer with Bleach
Before starting, gather the following items:
✅ Liquid bleach (regular household bleach)
✅ Rubber gloves (to protect your hands)
✅ Microfiber cloth or sponge
✅ Old toothbrush (for scrubbing small areas)
✅ Warm water
Now, let’s go step by step on how to clean washer with bleach for both top-load and front-load washers.
How to Clean a Top-Load Washer with Bleach
1️⃣ Empty the Washer
- Make sure there are no clothes inside the drum before cleaning.
2️⃣ Fill the Washer with Hot Water
- Set the washer to the largest load size and choose a hot water setting.
- If your washer has a self-cleaning cycle, use it.
3️⃣ Add Bleach
- Pour 2 cups of bleach directly into the drum.
- If your washer has a bleach dispenser, use that instead.
4️⃣ Run the Washer
- Start a complete wash cycle and let the bleach clean the drum.
- After the cycle ends, run another rinse cycle to remove any leftover bleach.
5️⃣ Clean the Exterior and Detergent Tray
- Mix one part bleach with two parts water and wipe down the detergent tray, lid, and control panel using a microfiber cloth.
- Use an old toothbrush to scrub any built-up grime.
6️⃣ Leave the Lid Open to Air Dry
- Keep the washer lid open for a few hours to allow proper ventilation and prevent mold growth.
How to Clean a Front-Load Washer with Bleach
1️⃣ Empty the Washer
- Remove all clothes before cleaning.
2️⃣ Check the Rubber Seal
- The rubber seal around the door collects moisture and mold.
- Mix 1 cup of bleach with 2 cups of water, dip a cloth in the solution, and wipe the seal.
- Scrub stubborn mold spots with a toothbrush.
3️⃣ Add Bleach to the Dispenser
- Pour 1 cup of bleach into the detergent dispenser (not directly into the drum).
4️⃣ Run a Hot Wash Cycle
- Select the hottest water setting and run a full cycle.
- If your washer has a cleaning cycle, use that for better results.
5️⃣ Run an Extra Rinse Cycle
- This will remove any leftover bleach from the drum.
6️⃣ Clean the Exterior and Air Dry
- Wipe the door, control panel, and detergent tray with a bleach-water mix.
- Leave the door open for a few hours to let the inside dry completely.
How Often Should You Clean Your Washer with Bleach?
For best results, clean your washer with bleach:
🗓 Once a month if you use it frequently
🗓 Every two months for light use
🗓 Whenever you notice bad odors or mold buildup
Tips to Keep Your Washer Clean Longer
🔹 Use the Right Detergent: If you have a high-efficiency (HE) washer, always use HE detergent to prevent soap buildup.
🔹 Wipe Down the Drum After Each Use: This prevents moisture buildup and mold growth.
🔹 Leave the Door Open: Keeping the washer door open after washing helps air out the drum.
🔹 Clean the Detergent Tray Weekly: Pull out the detergent drawer and rinse it to remove leftover soap and dirt.
🔹 Check the Drain Pump Filter: In front-load washers, clean the drain filter every few months to remove lint and debris.
Conclusion
Now you know how to clean washer with bleach safely and effectively. Regular cleaning helps keep your washing machine free from dirt, mold, and bad odors, making your laundry fresher and your washer last longer.
By following these simple steps, your washer will stay in great condition, providing clean and fresh clothes every time. Try cleaning your machine today and see the difference!
