5 Signs Your Washing Machine Needs Deep Cleaning (And How to Fix It)

Discover the warning signs that your washing machine needs maintenance, plus learn the easiest way to restore it to like-new condition with effective deep cleaning methods.

Your washing machine works hard to keep your family’s clothes clean, but when was the last time you cleaned the cleaner? Most homeowners don’t realize that their washing machine can accumulate residue, soap scum, and odor-causing buildup that affects cleaning performance.

Here are five clear signs your washing machine needs attention:

1. Your Clothes Smell Musty After Washing

If your freshly washed clothes have a sour or musty odor, it’s a telltale sign that residue and buildup have accumulated inside your machine’s drum and pipes. This happens when moisture gets trapped in hard-to-reach areas along with soap scum and detergent residue, creating persistent odors that transfer to your laundry.

2. Visible Dark Spots or Residue Around the Door Seal

Those dark spots around your washing machine’s rubber door seal aren’t just cosmetic issues – they’re stubborn residue and buildup that can affect your machine’s performance and transfer odors to your clothes. These deposits accumulate in the folds of the seal where they’re difficult to wipe away.

3. Your Washing Machine Has a Persistent Bad Smell

Even when empty, your washing machine shouldn’t have unpleasant odors. Persistent smells indicate deep-seated residue and buildup in the drum’s hidden crevices, drainage system, and internal components that don’t get cleaned during normal wash cycles.

4. White Residue on Dark Clothes

If you’re finding white, chalky residue on your dark clothing after washing, it’s likely soap scum and mineral deposits that have built up in your machine’s system. This buildup prevents proper rinsing and leaves your clothes looking dingy instead of clean.

5. Reduced Cleaning Performance

When your washing machine can’t effectively clean clothes that used to come out spotless, it’s often because accumulated residue is interfering with the machine’s ability to function properly. Clogged filters, spray nozzles, and drainage systems all reduce washing effectiveness.

The Solution: Deep Cleaning with Advanced Technology

The good news is that you can restore your washing machine to optimal performance in just one cycle. Modern effervescent cleaning tablets use advanced micro-bubble technology to penetrate every crevice of your machine, breaking down years of accumulated residue and buildup.

These specialized cleaners combine citric acid and sodium bicarbonate in a formula that activates throughout the wash cycle, thoroughly cleaning your machine’s internal components:

Deodorizing Action – Eliminates odor-causing residue

Powerful Degreasing – Breaks down soap scum and greasy residue

Mineral Dissolution – Removes hard water scale and deposits

Enzymatic Cleaning – Digests protein and starch buildup

Simple Monthly Maintenance

Once you’ve deep-cleaned your washing machine, maintain its performance with monthly treatments. Simply:

1. Place one cleaning tablet in your empty washing machine drum
2. Run a hot water cycle (ideally a “clean washer” cycle if available)
3. Wipe down the door seal and detergent dispenser when finished

This simple routine will help extend your machine’s lifespan, improve cleaning effectiveness, and keep your family’s clothes truly clean and fresh.

Long-Term Benefits

Regular monthly maintenance delivers lasting advantages:

• Improved cleaning results – Your clothes come out cleaner and fresher
• Extended appliance life – Removing corrosive deposits helps prevent premature wear
• Reduced odor problems – Stop musty smells before they start
• Lower energy costs – A clean machine runs more efficiently
• Fewer repairs – Preventive maintenance reduces the need for service calls

Take Action Today

Don’t let accumulated buildup sabotage your laundry routine. Start a monthly deep-cleaning routine today and experience the difference that a properly maintained washing machine can make for your entire household.

Make it easy by setting a monthly reminder on your phone – just like changing your HVAC filter or replacing smoke detector batteries. Your washing machine (and your clothes) will thank you!