How to Clean a Top Loading Washing Machine

Yesterday, during my homemade cleaning products making session, I thought I'd give a Pinterest find a whirl while I was at it. It was how to clean your top loading washing machine. We've had our washer and dryer since the twins were about 8 mos old, so almost 6 years now and I've never cleaned it, I didn't even know you were supposed to, let alone how!

So I looked at the instructions and did things a little bit my own way. I have to admit my washer had seen better days looks wise. It was also starting to make a squealing noise occasionally when agitating. But after doing this super easy cleaning it looks practically brand new! And the squeal hasn't happened again, and I've run 3 loads through it already today.

How to Clean A Top Loading Washer

Fill washer will HOT water on the largest load setting available. Add 1 Quart of Bleach. Let the washer agitate for 1 minute. Then let the washer sit for 1 Hour. This will kill all germs that may be lurking in all the little nooks and crannies. After 1 Hour, let the washer run through the longest wash and rinse cycle available on the hottest water setting.

Next, refill washer with HOT water again and add in 1 Quart Distilled White Vinegar. Let the washer agitate for 1 minute. Then add in a few squirts of Dawn dish soap. Swish around with a scrubby sponge. You're going to let the vinegar sit for 1 Hour to break down mineral deposits and the like. While that is going on take your scrubby sponge and dip it into the vinegar and Dawn solution and use it to scrub the exterior of the washer. I also broke out my cleaning toothbrush and got into all the cracks and really hard to reach areas by the door hinge. If, like me, your washer has built in bleach and softener dispensers pull those out, if removable, and let them soak in the water. After 1 Hour run the washer through the longest wash and rinse cycle again with HOT water and you're done!

My clothes are coming out cleaner as well. Super easy! Give it a try and see if it works for you!


Besides putting my super clean washer through its paces today with laundry, I'm making Chili and super easy Potato Bread for dinner. These are super easy recipes and taste great, as well as being dairy, soy and corn free. Recipes to be posted tomorrow with pictures! Stay tuned!