How to Clean a Washing Machine Properly: Drawer, Seal, Filter and Drum

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Washing machine odours typically originate from four components, in this order of frequency: the detergent drawer, the rubber door seal, the drain filter, and the drum itself. Understanding this priority helps target cleaning efforts effectively.

Most cleaning routines focus on visible parts like the drum and seal, but the drain filter is often the overlooked component that perpetuates odour problems. When clogged, it prevents proper drainage, causing stagnant water to recirculate through subsequent washes.

Addressing the Drain Filter

Located behind a small access panel at the machine’s front, the drain filter traps debris from pockets. A blocked filter is a common reason for persistent smells, as it prevents complete drainage, allowing water to stagnate.

To clean it, place a shallow container or towel beneath the machine. Unscrew the filter cap slowly to release trapped water. Remove any accumulated debris, rinse the filter under running water, and securely reattach it. Manufacturers typically advise cleaning the filter every two to three months, or more often if drainage seems slow or odours recur quickly. Clearing this blockage addresses the root cause of recirculating smells more effectively than surface-level cleaning products.

Once the filter is clear, odours often diminish within a couple of days. This step is crucial because it stops the cycle of dirty water being pumped back through the drum.

Now you know what to look for — get the Free Appliance Care Checklist to keep track of the parts to check and how often.

Cleaning the Drawer and Seal

Remove the detergent drawer completely, typically by pressing a release mechanism. Soak and scrub it in hot, soapy water, paying particular attention to the fabric conditioner compartment where residue commonly builds up. This build-up is a common source of odours because conditioner residue sits stagnant between washes.

Wipe the rubber door seal with a damp cloth after each use, focusing on the bottom folds where moisture collects. To aid drying, leave the machine door and detergent drawer slightly ajar between cycles. These simple habits prevent the damp environment that mould and mildew need to establish themselves.

Maintaining the Drum

Run an empty hot wash cycle (60°C or above) monthly to flush out residual detergent and oils. For a natural clean, add bicarbonate of soda directly to the drum at the start of a cycle, then pour white vinegar into the detergent drawer during the rinse phase. This combination helps dissolve residue without damaging machine components.

For more thorough maintenance every few months, consider a dedicated washing machine cleaner. Dr. Beckmann Service-it (paid link) Deep Clean is formulated to tackle musty odours. While more expensive than household alternatives, it provides a concentrated clean for regular maintenance schedules.

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Maintenance Schedule

Common Questions Answered

Can bleach be used for cleaning?

A cup of chlorine bleach added to the detergent drawer before an empty hot cycle can help disinfect the drum. Avoid mixing bleach with vinegar. Remember that bleach won’t clear a physically blocked filter, which should be addressed separately.

What’s a good cleaning routine?

Clean the filter every couple of months, the drawer monthly, and wipe the seal after each use. Run a monthly hot wash and consider a dedicated cleaner every few months. Hard water areas may require more frequent attention.

Why does the smell return after cleaning?

A clogged drain filter is often the culprit. If water cannot drain properly, it stagnates and redeposits odours during washes. Cleaning visible parts without addressing the filter may only provide temporary relief.

Ensuring Lasting Freshness

If an odour reappears within a month, re-check the drain filter first, as it’s the most likely component to cause rapid recurrence. For persistent issues beyond basic maintenance, our diagnostic guide Why Does My Washing Machine Smell — And What Actually Gets Rid Of It For Good? offers deeper troubleshooting steps.

Regular maintenance—particularly wiping the seal and leaving the door ajar—keeps machines fresh with minimal effort. The free Appliance Care Checklist provides a scheduled approach to prevent odours from taking hold.

Sources & Further Reading

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Note: General guidance only. Always consult your appliance manufacturer’s manual for specific instructions regarding your model.