Most people assume their washing machine cleans itself. After all, it’s constantly filled with water, soap, and spinning clothes. But the truth is very different. Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener buildup, dirt, body oils, and even mold quietly accumulate inside your washing machine—especially in places you can’t see.

A dirty washing machine doesn’t just smell bad. It can leave clothes less clean, cause musty odors, reduce efficiency, and even shorten the lifespan of the appliance. The good news? You don’t need harsh chemicals or expensive cleaners to fix the problem.

Here are 5 natural, effective ways to clean your washing machine and keep it running like new.

Why Natural Cleaning Matters

Many commercial washing machine cleaners contain strong chemicals that can irritate skin, damage rubber seals, or leave residues behind. Natural cleaning methods are safer for your clothes, your health, and your machine—while still being powerful enough to remove grime and odors.

Regular natural cleaning can:

Improve washing performance

Eliminate unpleasant smells

Prevent mold and bacteria buildup

Extend the life of your washing machine

1. Vinegar and Baking Soda Deep Clean

This classic combination is one of the most effective natural cleaning methods.

How it works:

White vinegar breaks down mineral deposits, soap residue, and grease. Baking soda neutralizes odors and scrubs away stubborn buildup.

How to do it:

Run an empty hot-water cycle.

Add 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum.

Let the machine run halfway, then pause it for 30–60 minutes.

Resume the cycle.

Afterward, sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda into the drum and run another short hot cycle.

Why it works:

This method cleans deep inside the drum, pipes, and hoses without damaging internal components.

2. Lemon Juice for Freshness and Odor Removal

Lemon juice is a powerful natural deodorizer and mild disinfectant.

How it works:

The citric acid in lemons dissolves soap scum and neutralizes unpleasant smells while leaving a fresh scent behind.

How to do it:

Add 1 cup of fresh lemon juice to an empty drum.

Run a full hot-water cycle.

You can also wipe down the rubber door seal with lemon juice to remove mildew and residue.

Why it works:

Lemon juice cuts through buildup while being gentle on seals and metal parts.

3. Hydrogen Peroxide for Mold and Bacteria

If your washing machine smells musty or shows visible mold, hydrogen peroxide is an excellent natural solution.

How it works:

Hydrogen peroxide kills bacteria, mold, and mildew without leaving harmful residues.

How to do it:

Pour 1 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide into the detergent dispenser or drum.

Run a hot, empty cycle.

For front-loading machines, use a cloth dipped in peroxide to wipe the rubber gasket thoroughly.

Why it works:

It targets odor-causing bacteria deep inside the machine, especially in moisture-prone areas.

4. Clean the Detergent Drawer and Rubber Seal

Many odors don’t come from the drum—they come from neglected parts.

Detergent drawer:

Remove it completely if possible.

Soak it in warm water mixed with vinegar.

Scrub gently with an old toothbrush.

Rubber door seal (front loaders):

Pull back the rubber gasket.

Wipe with a cloth dipped in vinegar or lemon juice.

Pay attention to hidden folds where mold loves to grow.

Why it matters:

These areas trap moisture and soap residue, becoming breeding grounds for bacteria and mold.

5. Prevent Buildup With Simple Habits

Cleaning your washing machine isn’t just about deep cleaning—it’s also about prevention.

Healthy washing machine habits:

Leave the door open after every wash to let moisture evaporate

Use the correct amount of detergent (more is not better)

Skip fabric softener occasionally—it leaves heavy residue

Run a hot empty cycle once a month

Remove wet clothes immediately after washing

Why it works:

Prevention reduces the need for aggressive cleaning and keeps your machine fresh long-term.