Your trusty washer is responsible for keeping your clothes fresh and clean. But over time, grime and residue can build up within its components.
If you’ve noticed your clothes are not as clean after being washed or a strange odor is coming from the washer, it may be time for a thorough cleaning.
Why Should You Clean Your Washing Machine?
Cleaning your washing machine is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about preserving one of the most utilized appliances in any home, keeping it efficient, and extending its lifespan.
When dirt, soap scum, hard water deposits, and leftover detergent are allowed to accumulate within a washer drum without regular wash cycles, they can lead to various issues.
That will defeat the purpose of doing the laundry as no one wants their garments to smell anything less than fresh after washing.
Dirt Build-Up Can Affect the Machine’s Efficiency
A grimy washer could compromise its performance – that goes for both a top-loading washing machine and a front-loading washing machine.
For example, accumulated grime can block the flow of water or interfere with the detergents during a wash cycle. In other words, you’ll need to run more than one cycle before achieving the desired results – an unnecessary consumption of energy and resources.
Potential Damage To Clothes And Appliance Breakdowns
If buildup becomes severe inside a top or front loader without monthly deep cleans using products like ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner, small particles can dislodge during the laundering process, leading to stains on your clothes or even damage, such as snags, especially on delicate fabrics.
The Solution: Routine Maintenance Schedule
Fortunately, you can prevent all these problems by maintaining your washing machine regularly.
This means wiping down visible surfaces and using ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets twice a month for deep cleaning.
That way, external components will remain presentable while internal ones function at peak capacity, thus prolonging the machine’s life expectancy.
Different Types of Washing Machines and Their Needs
Top-loading and front-loading machines, while similar in function, require distinct approaches when it comes to maintaining cleanliness.
Top-Loading Washing Machines
Due to the design of top loaders, soap residue can easily build up in hard-to-reach areas. For example, leftover detergent can accumulate around the agitator or at the drum’s base over time.
If left unattended during regular cleaning routines, these hidden spots may become hotspots for residues and odors.
Front-Loading Washing Machines
Cleaning front-load washers tends to be more intricate due to the way they’re built.
One area that’s particularly susceptible to residue is the rubber gasket surrounding the door as it comes into contact with moisture from wet laundry loads.
To counter this issue, we recommend wiping the seal with a soft cloth (an all purpose cleaner will do) every time you run the washer.
How to Clean Your Washing Machine with ACTIVE
Here we’ll explain how to clean and inspect the washer drum, detergent compartment, and other areas that are prone to dirt accumulation.
Preparing Your Washing Machine for Cleaning
Start by taking everything out of the washing machine.
It’s also important to use the right setting. Ideally, you want to use a hot water cycle as it’s highly effective at breaking down stubborn build-ups of soap scum and hard water deposits.
Some machines also have a “Clean Washer” mode, which goes through a cycle specifically for sanitizing the washing machine.
Running a Wash Cycle
Add one ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner Tablet directly into the washer drum and run a hot water or “Clean Water cycle.”
The tablets will automatically dissolve and circulate throughout all parts, effectively eliminating grime residue along with mineral deposits – offering a freshly washed clothes experience.
Tip: If it’s your first time cleaning your washer in a long time (or ever, no judgment), we recommend running a second cycle immediately afterward. The first cleaning cycle will help loosen grime build-up while the second cycle will finish the job by removing the rest and flushing it away.
Special Areas That You Want to Pay Attention To
While ACTIVE will reach the most important areas of grime buildup, other areas require special attention, which we will go over below.
Bleach and Detergent Dispensers
The bleach dispenser often harbors leftover liquid, which can turn into grime over time. To clean this area effectively, use warm water and white vinegar.
Wipe it gently using a damp cloth until all visible debris are gone.
And don’t forget those tricky crevices around the drawer compartment. For that, you can use white vinegar and hot water – just mix the two and scrub the area with either a toothbrush or cotton swab.
Depending on the washer that you have, you may be able to remove the bleach and detergent dispenser tray from the machine itself.
In that case, we recommend washing it in the sink using a soft brush and some dish soap. Just be sure to wash off all soap residue and let the dispenser fully dry before reinstalling it in your washing machine.
The Fabric Softener Compartment
The fabric softener compartments tend to accumulate sticky soap scum if left unchecked. A toothbrush dipped in white vinegar solution works wonders on these areas.
Just make sure not to scrub too hard as exerting too much force can damage the compartment itself.
Afterward, rinse the compartment with warm water, then wipe dry with a microfiber cloth – that will help prevent potential contaminants due to moisture retention.
Gasket and Seal
Your washer’s seal prevents leaks during wash cycles but also creates the ideal conditions for residue to accumulate due to their consistently moist environment. Checking and wiping these seals regularly after cleaning with ACTIVE will prevent residue and odors from developing.
Maintaining Washer Cleanliness Between Deep Cleans
Deep cleaning your washing machine is important but you also want to keep up with routine maintenance between these cleans. That will not only keep the washer in tip-top shape but will also extend its lifespan.
Here are some tips that will help.
Air Out Your Machine After Each Use
Leave your washer door open after each use – that will allow moisture to evaporate, which will reduce the likelihood of contaminants forming. This is especially true for front-loading machines as they tend to trap moisture behind the doors.
Pay Attention to the Detergent Compartments
Detergent compartments often become soap scum hotspots if left unattended for long periods. To prevent build-up, consider removing them (if possible) monthly and rinsing them under warm water until clean.
Laundry Detergent: Less Is More
Be mindful when you’re adding your detergent – using too much can cause excess suds, which can lead to unpleasant odors. Not only that but it can damage the machine itself – this is especially true for high-efficiency models.
Common Questions About Washing Machine Maintenance
How Often Should I Deep Clean My Top or Front Loading Washing Machine?
Your laundry habits dictate how often you should deep clean your washing machine. With ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner, running a cleaning cycle with one tablet twice per month is enough for the majority of our customers.
If you’re running more than fifty loads of laundry per month, you may want to consider cleaning it more often, roughly every ten days. However, due to the comprehensive cleaning power of ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner, you’ll likely be fine sticking with the twice-monthly schedule.
What Are The Indicators That It’s Time To Clean My Washing Machine?
If there’s an unpleasant odor coming from your washer or if your freshly washed clothes smell stale rather than fresh – it’s time to deep clean with ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner tablets.
Visible buildup on the drum or detergent compartment, along with reduced effectiveness during wash cycles is another sign that it’s time for cleanup.
How Does Hard Water Affect My Washer?
If you live in an area with hard water, mineral buildups (e.g. calcium, magnesium) can accumulate inside the pipes, and that can affect your machine’s efficiency over time.
Using a quality cleaner like ACTIVE will help combat such issues, ensuring optimal performance. Baking soda can also be effective.
Choosing the Best Washing Machine Cleaner
A clean washing machine will not only boost your appliance’s performance but will also prolong its lifespan. There are numerous commercial cleaners available, each offering unique benefits.
ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner is one of them. It’s specifically formulated to fight against stubborn odors that can be problematic with front-loading washers. It’s equally useful for top-load models as well as it eliminates odor-causing residues.
The tablets offer deep cleansing action, reaching even hard-to-reach areas within your washer drum without leaving any harsh chemical residues behind.
ACTIVE Cleaners: Comprehensive Appliance Cleaning Solutions
If you’re looking to keep every corner of your home spotless, be sure to check out our range of ACTIVE cleaning products. We have specialized solutions designed specifically for all types of appliances and machines – from washing machines to coffee makers.
Marvin –
I hate being tricked into buying a knockoff
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Ava –
I rated it 4 stars since I’ve only used it once. It works like promised, similar to Afresh, and offers enough for a year’s supply. With 5 dogs, it’s great for cleaning after their blankets! I’ll probably use up all the tablets by year’s end since they love playing in dirt and shedding. It keeps the washer clean for regular laundry. I’ll likely purchase again!
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Rico –
We recently moved into a rental house where the appliances needed some attention. The three-pack cleaner worked wonders for the washing machine and dishwasherno more weird smells and they looked much cleaner. Watching the disposal cleaner was satisfying, though it didn’t fully eliminate the funky smell as I’d hoped. I suspect a newer, well-maintained disposal would benefit greatly from it. Overall, I definitely recommend these cleaners!
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Marilane –
Bought these in 2023 and have used them constantly. The built-in track calendar keeps me on schedule, and there’s no smell or mold in my LG washer. I love the fresh scent it leaves. Check out my short video to see how it works!
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Carl –
I love how spotless my washer is! The seller was fantastic, too and found a card inside the box that said “thank u” and expressed appreciation for supporting their family-run business. Such a nice touch!
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Terry –
ITEM WHEN DELIVERED: I ordered a 24-pack to evaluate its effectiveness. PERFORMANCE AND RESULTS: I followed the instructional video and used one tablet in the washer’s dispenser on the ‘Tub Clean’ cycle (about 1.5 hours; LG brand). The dispenser appeared clean but the grime around the rubber seals was unchanged. Wiping with towelettes didn’t help either. Photos are included. I’m unsure if more uses will yield better results, but the initial experience was disappointing, as the rubber seams felt nearly dry. SMELL: No fresh scent was noticeable; the tub retained its original odor. SHINE: No visible shine compared to Tide Pods. VALUE FOR MONEY: The cost is high, at a 3:1 ratio compared to Tide Pods. VERDICT: The initial test showed no significant improvement over regular cleaning methods. I may try more cycles with different settings. For now, I rate it 3 out of 5 stars.
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Tanner –
I had reservations about ordering these due to reviews mentioning crushed cubes, residue, and excess suds. A pack of 24 tablet pods seemed large, but it depends on laundry frequency. I only wash about two small loads weekly, so this should last me two years, especially since the manual suggests cleaning the washer monthly. I’ve used a more expensive brand for years, but the price and quantity of these intrigued me. My LG front loader is over 12 years old and still works well. I ran one pod through a hot water cycle for an hour. There were many suds, and I thought about an extra rinse, but the drum and rubber door gasket came out clean and fresh-smelling, just like with the pricier brand. I’m pleased with my purchase.
For front load washers, it’s essential to leave the door ajar to dry, but that can be inconvenient. My washer is in the pantry, and I often bumped into the open door. The solution? Two 2.5-inch suction cups with a rubber band. This setup leaves the door open about an inch, keeping it out of the way while allowing air circulation. No odors, no mildew, and it stays clear of the doorway.
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koch –
I recently moved into a duplex that had been an Airbnb and came equipped with essential appliances. Although I have a washer, it was poorly maintained and needed a deep clean. After settling in, I noticed my clothes smelled fine out of the dryer but developed an unpleasant odor once folded. Upon inspecting the agitator, I was shocked to find a thick layer of grime, explaining why rewashing hadn’t helped. The first photo shows the results after one wash with a cleaning tablet, and the second photo shows the results after a second wash with one tablet in the agitator and another in the drum. I’m relieved that my electric and water bills will drop now that I won’t need multiple washes. Thank you!
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Mike F –
I ran several cycles over a few days, which significantly improved the situation. Wiping down after use helped, and the grime came off easily. I did extra runs to tackle hard-to-reach buildup. My clothes are no longer musty, thanks to the cleaner washer.
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Jeffrey Pierce –
I’ve been using this product for a month, and it descaled my machine more effectively than three Affresh tablets combined. u also get twice the number of tablets for half the cost, and the sleek packaging takes up less space than the Affresh box. It includes a handwritten thank-u note as well. After two weeks, the filter showed significant improvement; the drain pump filter water no longer has a rotten egg smell, although it returns after the next wash, likely due to my aging machine rather than the product itself.
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