
Yes, vinegar is a powerful natural cleaner that can help clean your washing machine thoroughly by removing soap scum, mold, mildew, and bad odors. Here’s how to use it effectively:
🧼 How to Clean a Washing Machine with Vinegar
✅ For Front-Loading Washing Machines
- Empty the Washer
- Make sure there are no clothes inside.
- Clean the Rubber Seal
- Dip a cloth in white vinegar.
- Wipe around the rubber door gasket (where mold and grime build up).
- Use an old toothbrush to scrub if needed.
- Run a Hot Cycle with Vinegar
- Pour 2 cups of white distilled vinegar into the detergent dispenser.
- Run a full hot water cycle (without clothes or detergent).
- Optional: Add Baking Soda
- After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda directly into the drum.
- Run another hot water cycle.
- This helps deodorize and scrub away remaining grime.
- Wipe Down
- Once done, wipe the inside and door dry with a clean cloth.
- Leave the door open to air out and prevent mold.
✅ For Top-Loading Washing Machines
- Set to Largest Load with Hot Water
- Start a wash cycle with the hottest water setting and largest load.
- Add Vinegar
- Pause the cycle once the tub is full.
- Add 4 cups of white vinegar directly into the water.
- Let it soak for 1 hour.
- Scrub
- While soaking, dip a cloth or sponge in the vinegar water and wipe:
- Agitator
- Lid
- Detergent dispensers
- While soaking, dip a cloth or sponge in the vinegar water and wipe:
- Resume and Finish the Cycle
- After soaking, let the cycle run completely.
- Optional Baking Soda Cycle
- Run a second cycle with 1 cup of baking soda.
- Helps with odors and residue.
💡 Tips:
- Clean monthly if you use the washer often.
- Always leave the door open after use to prevent mildew.
- Don’t mix vinegar with bleach—this produces toxic fumes.
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