How to clean ge washing machine top loader no agitator

While front-load washers have a reputation for residue buildup that can cause laundry not to get fully cleaned, high-efficiency and top-load washers can develop the same issues. Each load of dirty clothes can leave behind some soil, germs, and mineral deposits from the water, as well as residue from detergent and fabric softener. This can lead to odors and dingy laundry. So periodically cleaning your top-load washing machine is a must. Here are the steps to follow.

How Often to Clean a Top-Load Washing Machine

Every type of top-load washer should be thoroughly cleaned at least twice per year. If you have automatic dispensers and use them for each load, they should be cleaned monthly to prevent clogs. Because the same mineral deposits that form in the washer tub can also clog washer hoses, if you live in a hard water area you should clean the washer every three months.

High-efficiency top-load washers use much less water than standard top-load machines with a center agitator, so they should be cleaned more often—at least every three months. If your laundry loads are heavily soiled with grease or dirt or if you live in a hot, humid area where mold is an issue, monthly cleaning is recommended.

Tip

If you have the Whirlpool 2-in-1 top-load washer with the removable center agitator, you can leave the agitator attached or remove it during a cleaning cycle. At least twice a year, remove the agitator and check for trapped lint or debris.

Materials

• Chlorine bleach
• Distilled white vinegar
• Dishwashing liquid

The Spruce / Jorge Gamboa

How to Clean a Top-Load Washing Machine

1. Empty the Washer

   Check to make sure that the washer drum is completely empty of clothes. The dispensers should also be empty with no detergent or fabric softener in the reservoirs.

   The Spruce / Jorge Gamboa

2. Select the Water Temperature and Cycle Settings

   Set the water temperature to the hottest water setting. Select the largest load setting and the longest wash cycle available.

   The Spruce / Jorge Gamboa

3. Fill the Washer With Water

   Allow the washer drum to fill with hot water but stop the cycle before it begins to agitate.

   The Spruce / Jorge Gamboa

4. Add the Chlorine Bleach

   Add 1 quart (4 cups) of liquid chlorine bleach to the washer drum.

   Warning

   Do not add the distilled white vinegar with the chlorine bleach. The combination of products can produce toxic chlorine gas, which is dangerous in even small amounts. If you are sensitive to the odor of chlorine bleach, open windows to ensure good ventilation or turn on an exhaust fan in your laundry area if you have one.

   The Spruce / Jorge Gamboa

5. Run the Complete Washer Cycle

   Allow the washer to run through its longest wash, rinse, and spin cycle. It is important that the chlorine bleach is completely removed before the next step.

   The Spruce / Jorge Gamboa

6. Clean Detergent and Fabric Softener Dispensers

   If your dispensers are not removable, heat 1 cup of distilled white vinegar in a microwaveable cup or in a small pan on the stovetop. It should be very warm but does not need to be boiling. Pour the heated vinegar into the dispensers, and allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes to loosen any residue.

   If the dispensers are removable, they can be submerged in a sink or large bucket filled with hot water. Add 1 cup of heated distilled white vinegar, and allow them to soak for 15 minutes.

   After 15 minutes of soaking, use an old toothbrush or small bottle brush to remove any remaining residue that you see in the dispensers.

   Replace removable dispensers in the washer before moving to the next step.

   The Spruce / Jorge Gamboa

7. Fill the Washer Again With Hot Water

   With the freshly cleaned dispensers in place, fill the drum of the washer again with hot water. Be sure the settings are still on large load and the longest wash cycle. Stop the cycle before the washer begins to agitate.

   The Spruce / Jorge Gamboa

8. Add Distilled White Vinegar

   Add 1 quart (4 cups) of distilled white vinegar to the hot water in the drum.

   The Spruce / Jorge Gamboa

9. Complete the Wash and Spin Cycle

   Allow the washer to complete the wash, spin, and drain cycle.

   The Spruce / Jorge Gamboa

10. Clean the Outer Housing of the Washer

    Now that the interior of your washer is fresh and clean, take the time to wipe down the outer housing. Mix a solution of warm water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Dip a microfiber cloth in the solution, and wring out most of the water.

    Wipe away dust, grime, and laundry product drips from the top and sides of the washer. Pay extra attention to knobs and electronic panels.

    Open the lid and dip an old toothbrush into the cleaning solution to get into corners and tight places on the lid.

    The Spruce / Jorge Gamboa

Tips to Keep Your Top Load Washer Clean Longer

• Overuse of detergent and fabric softener is one of the key culprits for dirty machines, as the excess product coats the inner workings of the machine, causing build up. Ditch the measuring cup from the manufacturer for a shot glass—1 shot per load is all you really need.
• If you live in a humid area, leave the lid open after each load to allow the drum and seals to dry out and reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth.
• Never place laundry products on top of the washer at any time. Spills can damage electronic controls.
• Use a flashlight to check your washer basket carefully for chips that can leave rust spots on clothes. Repair kits are available to repaint the porcelain coating. Follow the directions carefully to extend the life of the washer

FAQ

• How often should you clean a top-loading washing machine?

  Though this appliance is responsible for keeping our clothes clean, it too needs to be washed. Clean your top loading washing machine at least twice a year.

• How long does a top loading washing machine last?

• Should you leave your washing machine running when leaving the house?

  A washing machine, or any other appliance such as a dryer or dishwasher, should not be left running when you are not at home. Unexpected things can and do happen. Washing machines can malfunction and flood the house or even catch on fire.

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