I apologize for the lack of crisp photos.  The laundry closet is at the top of the stairs on the second floor with no natural lighting nearby.

How to Clean a Top Loading Washing Machine

 1. Bleach.**
Add 4 cups of bleach with no detergent to washer.  Set for a long soaking cycle for the largest setting, and allow it to begin with hot water.  After it begins to agitate, turn the machine off.  Let sit for 60 minutes.  After 60 minutes, finish the cycle.
2. Vinegar.
Add 4-6* cups of white vinegar no detergent to the washer when the bleach cycle has completed.  Set it for the long cycle for the largest setting with hot water.  After it begins to agitate, turn the machine off.  Let it sit for 60 minutes.  While waiting, scrub the interior and exterior of your washer using the vinegar water in the washer.
3. Soap Scum.
The soap scum cannot be removed with elbow grease...at least not my elbow grease even with a scrubby pad.  My magic Dawn and vinegar bathtub cleaner made quick work of the soap scum. I used my special scrubber especially on the agitator and the top of the drum.  (Prior to success with this I scrubbed and scrubbed.  I even combined baking soda and lemon juice which I had used to clean the brown dishwasher stains.  It didn't work.)
4. Agitator Top.
Remove the top of the agitator.  Mine twisted off without a fuss.  Let it soak in the water while you finish cleaning.
5. Bleach Dispenser.
If you are able to remove the bleach dispenser, do so.  I could not force mine off, but was still able to clean it effectively.
* We have an extra large capacity machine, so I used four cups of bleach and six cups of vinegar.
** We have not asked our septic service people how much is too much bleach for a septic tank.  Before I use this method again, I will inquire.

When I finish a load of laundry, I keep my lid open.  I think it prevents mildew AND gives me a visual reminder that I need to put the laundry in the dryer if it is closed.

I know at some point we will need to replace the washer, but we're grateful it still works.  We knew we took a chance buying a used washer/dryer pair for $400, but it's been worth it.  Within a year we did replace the dryer, but the washer has held out for us with only a minor repair once, completed by my husband.

Do you ever clean your washing machine?  Be sure to clean your dryer vent/hose and lint trap, too.  I explained the importance of cleaning the lint trap.  Be sure to check out the Dawn and vinegar bathtub cleaner, too.  I also prefer homemade laundry detergent.  How about you?

~ Annette W. {This Simple Mom}

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