How to Clean a Washing Machine Drum
Is your washing machine starting to smell musty or leaving residue on your clothes? You’re not alone. A lot of us forget that the machine cleaning our laundry also needs a good clean now and then.
At Artech, we know how important it is to maintain your machine—because even the best washer can struggle if its drum is dirty. A buildup of detergent, fabric softener, mould, or limescale doesn’t just affect your clothes—it can wear down the machine itself. And if left unchecked, it might lead to the need for a washing machine repair in Dubai.
Here’s a simple, no-fuss guide to get your drum looking (and smelling) like new again.
1. Use the Built-In Drum Clean Setting (If You Have One)
Many newer washing machines come with a built-in “drum clean” or “tub clean” feature. It’s designed specifically to tackle residue and bacteria using high temperatures and specialized spin cycles.
Check your machine’s control panel or user manual to see if this feature is available. If it is, run the cycle with the drum completely empty. You can boost the results by adding a scoop of washing powder or a drum cleaner product.
2. Run a Hot Wash Without Any Laundry
If your machine doesn’t have a dedicated cleaning cycle, no worries—there’s a simple workaround. Just run an empty cycle at a high temperature—at least 60°C (140°F). This helps dissolve leftover detergent and kill off any bacteria or mildew lurking inside.
For extra power, pour in two cups of white vinegar or use a commercial cleaner made for washers. This trick is often recommended by technicians who provide washing machine repair services, as it can help prevent a lot of common issues before they start.
3. Wipe Down the Drum by Hand
Once the cycle finishes, take a clean, damp cloth and wipe around the inside of the drum. You might not see much, but it’s a good step to remove any loosened gunk or stubborn grime.
For extra cleaning muscle, mix a bit of baking soda with water and gently scrub using a soft brush. This mild solution is safe for your machine but tough on build-up.
4. Don’t Ignore the Door Seals and Glass
The rubber seals around the door and the inside of the door itself are often neglected—but they’re hotspots for mould and bad smells. Detergent can pool here and stay moist, creating the perfect environment for bacteria.
Wipe these areas thoroughly with a cloth dampened in a mix of water and vinegar. Be sure to get right into the folds of the rubber seal, where grime can hide.
5. Rinse It All Out
To finish up, run one more rinse and spin cycle with no detergent or laundry. This flushes out any leftover vinegar, cleaner, or dirt, and ensures the machine is ready for your next load of clothes.
How Often Should You Clean It?
Aim to clean your washing machine drum once every 1 to 3 months. If you’re running multiple loads each week, stick to a monthly schedule. Less frequent use? A deep clean every three months is usually enough to keep things running smoothly.
Regular maintenance saves you from unpleasant surprises and keeps your clothes coming out fresh every time.
When to Know It’s Time for a Clean
Not sure whether your washing machine needs a clean? Look out for these signs:
It has a strong, musty or sour smell
Clothes are coming out with white streaks or residue
You spot mould or mildew inside the drum
The machine is noisier than usual or drains slowly
These are all red flags that your washer needs attention. Sometimes the problem could be with the pump filter—if that’s the case, you’ll want to check the filter area or follow your manufacturer’s guide.
If Cleaning Isn’t Enough
Even a well-maintained washer can run into trouble. If your machine still isn’t performing well—maybe it’s leaking, shaking, or simply not turning on—it could be a bigger issue.
That’s where we come in.
At Artech, we offer professional inspections and repairs by experienced technicians who know exactly how to get your machine back on track. Whether it’s a small fix or something more technical, we’ve got the tools and knowledge to help.
Need help? Don’t wait—book your repair today and let Artech take care of it.
