How to clean a front-loading Whirlpool washing machine

If you’ve got a front-loading Whirlpool washing machine, you know how great they are at getting your clothes clean. But what about keeping the machine itself clean? It’s easy to forget that these appliances need a little TLC, too!

You may have started to notice unpleasant odors in your laundry or laundry room. Or you might see buildup and grime inside the washer drum or on the door seal. If so, then it’s probably time to deep clean that machine!

Let’s break down the steps for cleaning your front-load washer so you can keep it in top shape for years to come.

If you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool washer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for all types of appliances, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in cleaning recommendations. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the use and care manual for your specific appliance model.

Why should you clean your washing machine?

Just because washers clean clothes doesn’t mean they can clean themselves. There are areas besides the washer drum that can accumulate nasty odors, debris and other grime if they’re not regularly cleaned.

The design of front-load washers with airtight seals and horizontal drums means they can easily trap moisture, soap scum, and dirt, which can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Yuck! This not only affects the cleanliness of your clothes but can also lead to unpleasant smells and even damage your washer over time. And who wants to replace deteriorated parts more often than they have to?

What you need to clean your washer

• Microfiber cloth: Ideal for wiping down surfaces without leaving lint behind.
• Moist cleaning wipes: Use them to clean the exterior and interior of the washer.
• White vinegar: Helps break down detergent residue and eliminate odors inside the washer drum.
• Baking soda: A natural deodorizer that can be used to remove lingering smells.
• Washer cleaner tablets: Specially formulated to clean the inside of your washer and remove detergent build-up and odors.
• Soft brush or toothbrush: Useful for scrubbing small, tight areas like the gasket or detergent drawer.

Read more: How to Deep Clean a Washing Machine

How to clean a front-load Whirlpool washer

Follow these instructions to get your Whirlpool washing machine looking like new.

Clean the washer drum

1. Wipe down the inside of the drum with a microfiber cloth and a mild cleaning agent or a moist cleaning wipe to remove any visible dirt or detergent residue.
2. Pour two cups of white vinegar directly into the drum or use a washer cleaner tablet. Run an empty hot water cycle to clean the interior.
3. For extra deodorizing, add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the drum. Run another hot water cycle without any laundry or cleaning products. The baking soda will help neutralize any remaining odors.

Clean the gasket (door seal)

The rubber gasket — also called a door seal — around the door can easily trap water, detergent, and debris, which can lead to mold and mildew over time.

1. Open the washer door and gently pull back the gasket to check for trapped dirt or grime.
2. Use a microfiber cloth dipped in a mild detergent or vinegar solution to wipe down the gasket. For stubborn mold or mildew, you can use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub gently.

Make sure to dry the gasket completely after cleaning. If you notice any damage to the gasket, replace it with a new one before using your washer again. You’ll need to leave the door open between cycles to prevent mold buildup.

Clean the dispenser drawer

1. Pull out the detergent dispenser drawer, and if possible, completely remove it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Soak the drawer in warm water and scrub away any soap scum or residue with a brush.  Make sure all the compartments are clean, especially if you regularly use liquid fabric softeners or bleach.
3. While the drawer is soaking, use a moist cloth or brush to clean the area where the drawer is housed inside the washer.

Clean the filter

1. Find the filter, which is often found near the bottom of the front panel. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to remove it.
2. Rinse the filter under running water to remove any debris or lint. Make sure it’s completely clean before replacing it.

Other areas to clean

• Check and clean the drain pump filter at least once every six months. Remove any debris you find.
• Check the water supply lines for any signs of damage or leaks. Make sure the connections are tight and not corroded.
• Inspect the drain hose for any signs of damage or leaks. Replace it if needed.

Read more: HE Washer: Learning to Love Your High Efficiency Machine

How often should you clean your washer?

If you use your washer frequently (e.g., multiple loads per day or heavy-duty loads), you may need to clean it more often to prevent buildup. Here are some tips to get you started with regular washer cleaning.

After every load: Leave the door slightly open after each wash cycle so the drum can air out.

Weekly: Wipe down the drum, door, and gasket to remove any moisture and prevent mold or mildew from developing.

Monthly: Do a thorough cleaning by running an empty hot water cycle with a washer cleaner or vinegar to remove detergent residue, bacteria, and foul odors.

As needed: If you notice any odors, visible mold or detergent buildup, it’s time for an immediate cleaning. The sooner you address them, the easier they will be to remove.

Read more: How To Prevent And Remove Mold From Your Front-Load Washer

Additional information

Thanks for reading! If you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool washer, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We have over two million parts in stock and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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