Warning: Disconnect power before servicing.
ErrBase

How to Clean a Washing Machine: Front Load and Top Load Deep Cleaning Guide

Quick Answer

Cleaning a washing machine removes mold, mildew, odor-causing bacteria, and detergent residue that accumulate inside the drum, door seal (front-load), and dispenser. Front-load washers need monthly cleaning because the horizontal drum and door seal trap moisture. Top-load washers are less prone to mold but still need quarterly cleaning.

Cleaning a washing machine removes mold, mildew, odor-causing bacteria, and detergent residue that accumulate inside the drum, door seal (front-load), and dispenser. Front-load washers need monthly cleaning because the horizontal drum and door seal trap moisture. Top-load washers are less prone to mold but still need quarterly cleaning. For front-load: run the Clean Washer cycle (or hottest cycle) with 2 cups of white vinegar in the drum. After the cycle, wipe the door boot seal fold with a vinegar-soaked cloth - pull the fold open and clean inside where mold grows. Leave the door OPEN between washes to air-dry the interior. For top-load: run the Clean Washer cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar. Clean the fabric softener dispenser (pull out and soak in warm water). For both: clean the detergent dispenser drawer monthly (remove, rinse with hot water). Use HE detergent in HE machines - regular detergent leaves more residue.

GenericWasherSeverity: mediumDifficulty: intermediate75% DIY Success
Time to Fix
15–90 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
—
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Screwdriver

What Does the HOW-CLEAN Code Mean?

How to clean washing machine: run Clean Washer cycle with 2 cups white vinegar.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Component failure in the Generic washer40%
Sensor or thermostat out of operating range24%
Control board fault14%
Power or electrical supply issue12%
Mechanical wear requiring inspection10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • How to Clean a Washing Machine symptom

Can you reset a Generic washer to clear the HOW-CLEAN code?

Unplug 60 seconds.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterScrewdriverFlashlight

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Follow brand-specific diagnosis above.

Follow brand-specific diagnosis above.

2

Check error codes and secondary causes.

3

Professional diagnosis if basic checks fail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generic washer repair cost?
$100-400 typical.
Repair or replace?
Under 10 years and under 50% replacement = repair.
DIY?
Many fixes DIY. Gas/sealed systems need pros.

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 15, 2026