Skip to main content
Sherwood Apartments
Sherwood Apartments

Your Washer & Dryer Are Dirtier Than You Think—How to Clean a Washer & Dryer

Your Washer & Dryer Are Dirtier Than You Think—How to Clean a Washer & Dryer

Nothing beats the smell of fresh laundryunless your washer and dryer aren't clean themselves. If your clothes come out smelling musty or your dryer isn't working efficiently, it's time to give your laundry appliances some attention. Learning how to clean your washer and dryer helps protect your clothes, extends the life of your machines, and keeps your apartment fresh.

Below is your step-by-step guide on how to clean a washing machine and dryer, prevent buildup, and keep them performing at their best.


Why Cleaning Your Washer and Dryer Matters

Your washer and dryer are essential to your daily routine, keeping your clothes clean, fresh, and ready for whatever your week brings. However, while these machines work hard to take care of your laundry, many people overlook the fact that washers and dryers also need regular cleaning themselves to continue working properly. Every cycle your washer runs leaves behind traces of dirt, lint, detergent residue, hard water minerals, and moisture, while your dryer collects lint and dust each time you dry your clothes. Over time, this buildup doesn't just affect how your clothes smell or feel; it can also impact your machine's efficiency and safety.

If left uncleaned, this buildup can cause:
  • Bad odors in your washer and clothes
  • Mold or mildew growth
  • Reduced dryer efficiency and higher energy bills
  • Fire hazards from lint accumulation
Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid these issues and keep your laundry fresh and safe.
A person's hand is touching a car air filter.

How to Clean a Washing Machine

Cleaning a Top Loader

Wondering how to clean a top loader washing machine? Here's how:

1. Run a Cleaning Cycle: Use your machine's cleaning cycle with hot water and add a couple cups of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner.

2. Scrub the Drum: Use a microfiber cloth and a mix of water and vinegar to wipe the drum and agitator.

3. Clean Dispensers: Remove and clean detergent and fabric softener dispensers with warm, soapy water.

4. Wipe Down Seals: Check under the lid and around seals for buildup, wiping with a vinegar-water solution.

5. Leave the Lid Open: Allow the washer to air dry to prevent mildew.


Cleaning a Front Loader

Here's how to clean a front loader washing machine effectively:

1. Run a Cleaning Cycle: Use hot water and a washer cleaner or 2 cups of vinegar, following manufacturer recommendations.

2. Wipe the Gasket: Front loaders have a rubber gasket that traps moisture and debris. Wipe it thoroughly with a vinegar-water solution.

3. Clean Dispensers: Remove and scrub the detergent drawer with warm, soapy water.

4. Wipe the Door and Drum: Clean inside the drum and the door's interior with a soft cloth.

5. Air It Out: Keep the washer door slightly open after each load to prevent musty odors.


General Washer Care Tips

  • Don't leave wet clothes sitting in the washer to avoid mildew.
  • Use the correct amount of detergent to reduce residue buildup.
  • Run a cleaning cycle once a month.

If you're wondering how to clean out a washing machine regularly, these simple steps will keep your washer in top shape.

A white oven and microwave in a kitchen.

How to Clean Your Dryer

Dryer maintenance is essential for efficiency and safety. Here's how to clean your washer and dryer by focusing on your dryer:

Empty the Lint Trap After Every Load

Knowing how to clean a lint trap is the first step to maintaining your dryer. Remove lint from the screen after each load to improve airflow and reduce fire risk.

Deep Clean the Lint Trap

Once a month, remove the lint trap and wash it with warm, soapy water to clear away residue. Let it dry completely before reinserting.

Clean the Dryer Drum

Wipe the inside of the dryer drum with a microfiber cloth and mild soap to remove lint or residue. For stubborn stains, use a vinegar-water solution.

Check and Clean Dryer Vents

A clogged vent can reduce efficiency and become a fire hazard. Every few months, detach the dryer vent and remove lint buildup, or use a vacuum attachment to clean it thoroughly.

A woman is sitting on a bed with a laundry basket and headphones on.

Tips to Keep Your Washer and Dryer Clean

Keep your clothes smelling fresh while maximizing energy efficiency and prioritizing your safety. These bonus tips can help with your cleaning routine.

  • Leave your washer door open to let it air out.
  • Check pockets before washing to avoid debris in the drum.
  • Don't overload machines, as it reduces cleaning efficiency.
  • Use high-efficiency (HE) detergent if your machine requires it.
  • Wipe down the exterior of your appliances regularly.

These small habits will extend the life of your appliances and keep your laundry consistently fresh.


Looking for an Apartment with a Washer and Dryer?

Learning how to clean your washer and dryer will keep your clothes fresh, your home clean, and your appliances running efficiently for years. If you're looking for an apartment in Topeka, KS with the convenience of an in-unit washer and dryer, check out Sherwood Apartments. Enjoy spacious floor plans, a welcoming community, and the ease of doing laundry from the comfort of your home while maintaining a clean, fresh environment.