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How to Clean a Front-Load Washer

Keep Your Washing Machine Pristine With These Easy Steps

How to Clean a Front-Load Washer
Image Source: Getty / Cris Cantón

The main difference between front-load and top-load washing machines is that the former cleans items in a tumbling motion rather than a twisting motion. Tumbling works faster, harder, and better at removing stains, odor, and grime, per Howard's. Unfortunately, front-load washers are more susceptible to mold and mildew because it's more difficult for water to evaporate.

On the bright side, many current front-load models feature special self-cleaning settings, which makes routine cleaning a one-step job! If your front-load washer isn't equipped with a self-cleaning tool, then you'll have to do it the old way, aka by hand.

Instructions for Cleaning a Front-Load Washing Machine

  1. Double check the machine is completely empty.
  2. Using bleach, scrub all attachments: soap, bleach, and fabric-softener dispensers, as well as the rubber gaskets around the opening of the drum, both inside the door and on the physical machine.
  3. Pour two cups of bleach into the front-load washer.
  4. Start a normal wash cycle with hot water. Once the drum has filled, pause the cycle, and let the bleach-water solution sit for 30 minutes. This allows the bleach to really settle in and get to work. After 30 minutes, resume the cycle.
  5. Run an additional rinse cycle to make sure all the bleach is gone.
  6. Leave the washer door open so the drum can air-dry.
  7. Wipe down the exterior of your front-load washer with disinfectant wipes.
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