Washer Guide
How to Clean a Front-Load Washer
Front-loaders are efficient, but their sealed door and low water use let moisture and detergent residue linger — which is why they develop that musty smell. Regular cleaning fixes it and heads off bigger problems.
If your machine has a Self Clean or Pure Cycle setting (common on Samsung and LG), use it; if not, the manual method below does the same job.
The monthly clean
- Run the Self Clean / Sanitize cycle empty, or run a hot cycle with a washer-cleaning tablet or a cup of white vinegar in the drum.
- Wipe the rubber door gasket thoroughly — peel back the folds and clean out trapped water, hair, and gunk. This is where most odours start.
- Pull out the detergent drawer and rinse off the slimy residue, including the syphon cap.
- Leave the door and the detergent drawer ajar between washes so the drum dries out.
Habits that prevent the smell
- Use HE detergent and the right dose — overdosing leaves residue that feeds mildew.
- Move laundry to the dryer promptly instead of leaving it damp in the drum.
- Clean the drain pump filter every month or two; it traps lint and water that turns sour.
Rather have a pro handle it?
Our technicians repair this across Toronto and the GTA — same-day in many cases, with clear pricing and a warranty on the work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Self Clean cycle on a Samsung or LG washer actually do?+
It runs a long, high-temperature cycle with no laundry to flush out detergent residue and bacteria from the drum. It doesn't clean the gasket or drawer, though — you still need to wipe those by hand.
Why does my front-load washer smell even after cleaning?+
A smell that returns fast usually means residue or standing water you can't see — often behind the gasket, in the drawer housing, or in the drain pump filter. If it persists after a deep clean, a tech can check the sump and drain for biofilm.