are the stalwart allies of busy households, consistently tackling the laundry challenge. However, even the reliable, high-efficiency top-loading washing machine isn’t immune to the gradual build-up of soil, grime, water mineral deposits, and detergent and fabric softener residue. This often unnoticed accumulation can lead to unpleasant odors and reduced washing efficiency, impacting the cleanliness of your laundry. Show
Families with young children or high washing frequency may particularly notice this effect, reinforcing the importance of regular washer maintenance. Your top-loader’s health demands cleaning that is both consistent and thorough, a task easier than it sounds. Let’s roll up our sleeves and explore the world of washer maintenance, always remembering to refer to your machine’s manual for specific advice. Caring for a top-loading washing machine isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ scenario. Various factors come into play to set the rhythm of your machine’s cleaning routine. As a general guideline, consider undertaking a comprehensive cleaning every three to six months. This routine frees your machine from stubborn grime and hidden dirt, ensuring it operates efficiently. Beyond this, other considerations include:
Cleaning a Top-Loading Washing Machine: Gather SuppliesA successful washing machine cleaning operation starts with the right tools and materials. Here are a few supplies you’ll need:
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cleaning a Top-Loading WasherStep 1: Empty the Washer Make sure your washer is empty. Remove any remaining clothes or other items from the drum. Step 2: Fill with Hot Water Set your washer to its highest load size and hottest water setting. Allow the tub to fill completely. Step 3: Add a Cleaning Agent Add four cups of white vinegar to the hot water, close the lid, and allow it to agitate for several minutes. Step 4: Add Baking Soda Next, add one cup of baking soda to the water-vinegar mixture. Close the lid again and let the machine agitate for another few minutes. Step 5: Pause and Soak Pause the cycle, and let the vinegar and baking soda solution soak in the washer tub for an hour. This soaking period helps break down any grime or mineral deposits. Step 6: Resume Cycle After an hour, close the lid and allow the wash cycle to complete. The agitation will help dislodge any remaining grime, and the rinse cycle will wash it away. Step 7: Wipe Down the Washer While the cycle has finished, dip a microfiber cloth in the vinegar solution and use it to wipe down the top, sides, and front of the machine. Pay special attention to the knobs and other high-touch areas. Step 8: Clean the Dispensers If your washer has fabric softener or bleach dispensers, remove them and rinse under hot water. Use an old toothbrush and some vinegar to scrub away any residue. Step 9: Do a Final Rinse Once the cycle has finished, inspect the drum. If you see any remaining residue, run another hot water cycle. Cleaning Washing Machine Top-Loader Best PracticesSome practices can make the cleaning more efficient and help prolong the lifespan of your top-loading washing machine.
Cleaning a Top-Loading Washing Machine Do’s and Don'tsTo keep your top-loading washing machine in its best condition, there are specific actions to follow and others to avoid. Here's a quick reference table with important do’s and don'ts: Do's Don'ts Read the manual. Each machine is unique, and understanding yours will guide your cleaning. Ignore your machine's specific guidance. Use the right amount of detergent. Overuse can leave residue, underuse may not clean effectively. Use too much detergent. It leads to suds and residue buildup. Clean regularly. Regular cleaning extends your machine's lifespan and performance. Delay or avoid routine cleaning. Remove detergent residue. Leftover detergent can cause buildup, leading to unpleasant odors. Neglect to clean out old detergent and fabric softener. Clean the lint filter. This can prevent blockages and improve your machine's efficiency. Forget to clean or replace the lint filter regularly. Load the machine properly. Helps the cleaning process and prevents strain on the machine. Overload the machine. Overloading can hamper the cleaning process and strain the machine. Use mild, non-abrasive cleaners. Keeps your machine's surfaces and components safe. Use abrasive cleaners or bleach on stainless steel. These can cause discoloration and damage. FAQs on How to Clean a Top-Loading Washing MachineHow do you deep clean a top-loader washing machine?Run a long wash cycle with hot water and a machine cleaner or a natural cleaning agent like vinegar, and then scrub all components. How do I deep clean my top-loading washing machine with vinegar?Fill the machine with hot water and add two cups of vinegar. Let it sit for 20 minutes and run a complete cycle. Do top-loading washing machines have a filter that needs to be cleaned?Yes, most top-loading washing machines have filters that need regular cleaning to ensure optimal performance. Where is the filter located on a top-load washer?The filter is usually located either at the bottom of the drum or behind the machine, but you should check your user manual for the exact location. How do I know if my washer has a lint trap?Check your washer’s manual. If it has a lint trap, it’s often located along the top rim of the washing drum. How do you remove buildup from a top loader washing machine?Add the Cleaning AgentChlorine bleach: Use four cups of bleach. Fill the bleach and detergent dispensers and add the remaining bleach directly to the washer drum. Hydrogen peroxide: Use six cups of peroxide because it is a milder form of bleach. Fill the dispensers and add the rest to the washer drum. Do top loading washing machines have a filter to clean?Most top load washers made after 2001 do not have washer filters in their drainage system. Instead, newer models utilize a more powerful drain pump and larger drain holes. If you have a model made before 2001, you can find the washer filters at the bottom of the washer drum underneath the agitator. How much vinegar do I use to clean my top loading washing machine?Run the biggest cycle at the hottest temperature or use the “clean tub” setting on the washer. At the end of the cycle, add vinegar to the liquid dispenser tray or washer tub. Use 2 cups for a front-loading machine or 1 quart for a top-loading machine. Run another hot water wash cycle. Is bleach or vinegar better to clean washing machine?The results will be exactly the same, however white vinegar is most definitely the more environmentally friendly option (and it's more affordable too). Just remember to never mix both bleach and vinegar together or even use them at the same time, as this can cause a dangerous reaction and release chlorine gas. |