The washing machine is one of the most important household appliances and should be cleaned regularly. It ensures that our clothes, towels and textiles remain clean and fresh. But for the machine to operate reliably over the long term, it also requires regular maintenance. Cleaning your washing machine protects not only the appliance but also the laundry from germs, unpleasant odors and grey film.
In this article we comprehensively show you how to thoroughly clean your washing machine with simple household products, what to watch for during maintenance and how to extend its lifespan with preventive measures.
Why is it so important to clean the washing machine?
Although water and detergents flow through the appliance with every wash cycle, that does not mean the machine stays clean automatically. On the contrary: residues from detergent, fabric softener, dirt and limescale accumulate inside the washing machine – especially in the drum, the rubber seals, the detergent drawer and the drainage system.
These deposits can lead to various problems:
- Musty odor: Residues and moist conditions promote the growth of bacteria and mold, leading to unpleasant odors that transfer to the laundry.
- Poorer washing performance: Dirt in the drum or clogged lines can cause the laundry to no longer be properly cleaned.
- Higher energy consumption: Limescale on the heating elements reduces the machine’s efficiency. As a result, heating takes longer, which leads to increased electricity consumption.
- Mold formation: The rubber seals on the door in particular are an ideal location for mold if they are not cleaned and dried regularly.
- Technical faults: Long-term neglect can significantly shorten the machine’s lifespan.
How often should the washing machine be cleaned?
Regular cleaning is the key to the longevity of your washing machine. The following intervals have proven effective:
- Drum cleaning: every 1 to 2 months
- Lint filter and door – seal: monthly
- Detergent drawer: monthly
- Drain hose and pump: at least twice a year
Especially in households where a lot of washing is done (e.g. families with children or pets), the washing machine should definitely be cleaned more frequently.
Step – by – step – guide: cleaning the washing machine
1. Descale the drum and remove odors
Required household items:
- 200 ml vinegar or 1 cup citric acid
- 2–3 tablespoons baking soda (or baking powder)
Procedure:
Pour the vinegar or citric acid directly into the empty drum. Then sprinkle in the baking soda. Start a wash cycle at at least 60 °C (preferably 90 °C) without laundry. This combination dissolves limescale, removes odors and disinfects.
Tip: For heavily soiled machines you can also use a specialised washing machine cleaner (e.g. from AlmaWin or Frosch).
2. Clean the lint filter in the washing machine
The lint filter catches coarse debris such as lint, coins or small objects that could otherwise damage the pump.
How to:
- Open the flap (usually at the bottom front side )
- Place a towel or shallow container underneath – water may escape here
- Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly under warm water
- Remove dirt, brush off residues, and reinsert
3. Clean the door seal
Water, dirt and detergent residues often collect in the folds of the door seal – an ideal breeding ground for mould.
Cleaner:
- Vinegar solution (diluted 1:1 with water) or all-purpose cleaner.
- Soft cloth or old toothbrush
Procedure:
- Gently pull back the folds
- Thoroughly wipe with the vinegar solution
- If necessary, work with a toothbrush
- Finally dry with a dry cloth
Important: Check the seal regularly – even on newer appliances.
4. Clean the dispenser drawer
Residues of laundry detergent, fabric softener and moisture promote the growth of bacteria and slime here.
Procedure:
- Pull out the drawer (apply slight pressure if necessary)
- Soak in warm water with a little dish soap or vinegar
- Clean with a small brush or toothbrush
- Rinse, dry, reinsert
5. Clean the drain hose and pump
Blockages in the drain area impair drainage and lead to error messages.
How to clean the hose:
- Disconnect the appliance from the power supply
- Disconnect the hose from the fitting
- Flush through with water, if necessary clean with a drain-cleaning brush
- Reconnect and check for leaks
Washing machine cleaning -The best household remedies
Natural household remedies are not only inexpensive and effective, but also harmless to the environment. The following remedies have proven effective:
- Vinegar: dissolves limescale and removes odors. Alternatively we recommend the Poliboy Kalklöser.
- Citric acid: particularly gentle, ideal for regular use
- Baking soda: has a disinfecting effect and absorbs unpleasant odors
- Baking powder: similar to baking soda, also suitable for the drum
- Dish soap: for removing deposits in the drawer and the seal.
Washing machine cleaning -Preventive measures
- Leave the machine door open: This allows residual moisture to escape and prevents mold formation
- Correctly dose detergent: Overdosing leads to residues – be sure to follow the manufacturer’s dosing instructions
- Occasionally run a hot wash without laundry: 60–90 °C programs help against germs and bacteria
- Use a water softener: Particularly sensible in regions with hard water. We recommend the Sonett Enthärter.
Sustainable care for washing machines
Proper care of your washing machine protects not only the appliance but also the environment:
- Lower power consumption thanks to scale-free heating elements
- Longer service life
- Natural cleaners and detergents are gentler on wastewater. We recommend the vegan AlmaWin dishwasher and washing machine cleaner. This cleaner is suitable for both the washing machine and the dishwasher.
Common mistakes
- Insufficient cleaning: Many issues arise from inadequate maintenance
- Inappropriate cleaning agents: Bleach or aggressive chemicals can damage rubber and metal parts
- Keeping the door closed: encourages mold and odor formation
- Leaving dirty laundry in the machine for too long: unpleasant odors develop
Conclusion: Cleaning the washing machine
A clean washing machine is essential for hygienically clean laundry and efficient energy use. Limescale, dirt and odors can be reliably removed with natural household remedies such as vinegar, citric acid and baking soda — completely without aggressive chemicals. Alternatively, we recommend the vegan AlmaWin washing machine cleaner.
Regular care saves money, extends the lifespan of your machine and protects the environment. Pay attention to correct detergent dosing, leave the door open after washing and run a high-temperature cleaning cycle at regular intervals.
This keeps your washing machine clean, efficient and reliable in the long term — for fresh laundry and peace of mind.