A Greener, Cleaner Washer: A How-To Guide for Your Whirlpool

A sparkling clean washing machine is the secret to fresh, clean laundry. But even the best appliances need a little TLC to keep them running at peak performance. Here at Paradise Appliance Service, as the exclusive Whirlpool Factory Certified Care provider for Los Angeles and Orange County, we want to empower our customers with the knowledge to care for their appliances.

This guide will walk you through the simple steps to clean your Whirlpool washer, ensuring it stays fresh and efficient for years to come.

Getting Started: What You’ll Need

• A soft, damp cloth or sponge
• Mild soap or all-purpose cleaner
• A small brush (like an old toothbrush)
• Your choice of cleaning agent for the drum:
  • Affresh® washing machine cleaner tablets (recommended by Whirlpool)
  • Distilled white vinegar and baking soda
  • Liquid chlorine bleach

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

1. Clean the Exterior

Start by wiping down the outside of your washer with a soft, damp cloth and a mild cleaner. Pay special attention to the control panel, using a gentle touch to avoid damaging any buttons.

2. The Dispenser Drawer

Your detergent dispenser can be a breeding ground for residue buildup. For most Whirlpool models, the drawer can be removed for easy cleaning.

• Remove the drawer: Pull the dispenser drawer out until you feel resistance, then look for a release tab or button to fully remove it.
• Soak and Scrub: Soak the drawer in warm, soapy water. Use a small brush to scrub away any gunk or mold.
• Rinse and Dry: Rinse the drawer thoroughly and dry it completely before reinserting it.

3. The Rubber Door Seal (For Front-Load Washers)

The rubber gasket on a front-load washer is a common spot for grime and mildew.

• Gently pull back the seal: Use a damp cloth with a bit of white vinegar to wipe down the entire seal, including the underside.
• Be thorough: A clean seal not only prevents odors but also ensures a watertight seal.

4. The Heart of the Machine: The Drum

Now, for the most important part—the drum. Choose one of the following methods:

• With Affresh®: Place one Affresh® tablet directly in the bottom of the washer drum (not in the dispenser). Run the “Clean Washer” cycle or a normal hot water cycle.
• With Vinegar and Baking Soda: Pour two cups of white vinegar into the drum and a half-cup of baking soda into the dispenser. Run a hot water cycle. This is a natural and effective way to break down soap scum and deodorize your machine.
• With Bleach: Add one cup of liquid chlorine bleach to the bleach dispenser and run a hot water cycle. Important: Never mix bleach with other cleaners.

5. Don’t Forget the Filter

Most front-load washers have a filter to catch lint, hair, and other small items.

• Locate the filter: It’s usually behind a small door on the bottom front of the machine.
• Clean it out: Place a shallow pan or towel underneath to catch any residual water. Unscrew the filter and rinse it under warm water, using a soft brush to remove any debris.
• Wipe the housing: Before replacing the filter, wipe out the inside of the filter housing.

Pro-Tips for a Fresh Washer

• Leave the door ajar: After each wash, leave the door of your front-loader open to allow air to circulate and dry out the drum. For top-loaders, leave the lid up.
• Use the right detergent: Use only High-Efficiency (HE) detergent in HE washers.
• Clean regularly: A monthly cleaning will prevent buildup and keep your washer smelling fresh.

When to Call the Pros

If you’ve followed these steps and are still noticing a persistent odor, or if your washer is making unusual noises or not performing as it should, it may be time to call in the experts. At Paradise Appliance Service, our factory-certified technicians are always here to help. You can schedule a service appointment through our website or give us a call. We are proud to serve the Los Angeles and Orange County communities with reliable and professional appliance repair.