Use a soft bristle scrub brush to scrub down the parts. Place the agitator and filter into a bucket, utility sink or bathtub filled with hot, soapy water or in a cleaning solution made from 2 cups of vinegar, 1/4 cup baking soda and 1/4 cup water. Wash the agitator and filter in cleaning solution Use a socket wrench to remove the bolt holding the agitator, and lift the agitator out of the machine from its base.Ģ. Typically, Perry says, these are the steps for removing and cleaning a washing machine filter. “This procedure varies from one machine to the next.”Ĭonsult the machine’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to remove the washing machine agitator and filter, and unplug the machine before removing any parts. “To fully deep-clean a washing machine, you’ll need to clean the filter and the agitator,” Gina Perry, a former senior merchant of cleaning at The Home Depot, says. Top-loading washers with an agitator will need a deeper cleaning. Avoid the use of abrasive or harsh cleaners when cleaning outside surfaces, as they can cause scratching and other damage. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the exterior of the machine. Open the lid and clean in and around the door using a damp cloth. Removable parts may also be soaked in warm water to loosen and remove residue. Wipe them clean with a damp cloth and use a toothbrush or cleaning brush to scrub any stubborn buildup.

Pull out the dispenser drawer(s) until you feel resistance or, if they’re removable, take them out of the unit. Important note: If using bleach, do not also use products containing ammonia or vinegar, as they cause a dangerous chemical reaction when mixed with chlorine bleach. Leave the washer door open to let the tub dry. Run the washer’s cleaning cycle, followed by a rinse and spin cycle, to remove residue from the cleaner. Start by cleaning the tub, using a washing machine cleaner like Affresh or 1-quart liquid chlorine bleach. She recommends cleaning a washing machine regularly: “Staying on top of cleaning your washer means you don’t give residues a chance to take up residence in your machine.” Lindsay Jones, a communications brand manager at Maytag, provided step-by-step instructions for cleaning a top-loading washing machine. How to clean a top-loading washing machine We spoke to experts about how, and how often, to clean top-loading washers and front-loading washers. It can be easy to overlook cleaning the things we use to clean other things, but major appliances like washing machines do need to be cleaned and properly maintained to optimize performance and ensure the safety of your household.Ĭleaning a washer will prevent the buildup of laundry products and soil that can leave clothes and bedding dingy, even right out of the wash, and prevent odors from taking root in the machine - and in your laundry.

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