My Secret to a Fresh-Smelling Washer (Even My Neighbor Asked!)
The first time I cleaned our front load washer, my husband looked at me and said, “I didn’t even know washers needed cleaning!” Honestly, neither did I—until ours started smelling… funky. Now, I give it a quick monthly refresh, and our laundry smells fresher than ever. Even my neighbor (who works at a laundromat!) asked what I do. Here’s the simple routine that works like magic:
What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups white vinegar
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 microfiber cloth
- 1 old toothbrush
- 1 cup bleach (optional for deep clean)1. Run a hot vinegar cycle
Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser. Run the washer on the hottest and longest cycle with an empty drum. This helps dissolve detergent residue and kill bacteria.2. Scrub the rubber gasket
Use a cloth soaked in vinegar to wipe down the rubber seal around the door. Grab an old toothbrush to get into the folds—this is where grime and mold love to hide!3. Quick wash with baking soda
Sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda directly into the drum. Run a short hot wash cycle. This neutralizes any lingering odors and gives it a final freshening boost.4. Let it air dry
After cleaning, leave the door open for at least an hour to let everything dry completely.
