Washer Machine Cleaner Tablets: How to Use and Clean Your Washing Machine (Troubleshooting Guide)

On this page

Quick answer
Confirm the symptom
Tools and prep
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Common causes table
Parts matching
When to call a pro
FAQ
Related guides

Quick answer

To clean your washing machine with cleaner tablets, first turn off the machine and unplug it. Place one tablet in the drum, run a hot water cycle without clothes, and let the machine sit for an hour afterward. This removes buildup and odors.

Confirm the symptom

Foul odors coming from the washing machine
Visible mold or mildew in the drum or around the seal
Washing machine isn't cleaning clothes as effectively as before
Error messages related to cleaning or maintenance
Unusual noises during the wash cycle after using the machine

Tools and prep

Washer machine cleaner tablets
Rubbing alcohol or white vinegar
Microfiber cloth or sponge
Gloves
Empty laundry basket or container
Ensure the washing machine is unplugged and turned off
Check the water supply is turned on to allow hot water to flow

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Turn Off and Unplug the Machine
Do: Switch off the washing machine and unplug it from the power outlet.
Observe: The machine should be completely powered down.
Means: This ensures safety during the cleaning process.
Next: Prepare the cleaning tablet.
Prepare the Cleaning Tablet
Do: Place one washer machine cleaner tablet in the drum of the machine.
Observe: The tablet should dissolve during the cleaning cycle.
Means: The tablet is designed to break down buildup and odors.
Next: Run the hot water cycle.
Run the Hot Water Cycle
Do: Select the hottest water setting and start a regular wash cycle without any clothes.
Observe: The machine will fill with water and begin the cleaning process.
Means: Hot water helps dissolve the tablet and remove grime effectively.
Next: Let the machine sit.
Let the Machine Sit
Do: After the cycle completes, leave the machine door open for at least an hour.
Observe: The interior should be dry and free of odors.
Means: This allows the machine to air out and prevents mold growth.
Next: Wipe down the exterior and seal.
Wipe Down the Exterior and Seal
Do: Use a microfiber cloth or sponge with rubbing alcohol or white vinegar to clean the exterior and rubber seal.
Observe: The surfaces should be clean and streak-free.
Means: This removes any remaining residue or mold.
Next: Reconnect the machine.
Reconnect the Machine
Do: Plug the washing machine back in and turn it on.
Observe: The machine should power up normally.
Means: You can now resume regular use.
Next: Test the machine with a small load.

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Mold and Mildew Buildup Moisture trapped in the drum and seal creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew.	Common	Easy	Washer machine cleaner tablets
Soap Scum and Detergent Residue Hard water and excessive detergent use leave behind residue that clogs the machine.	Common	Easy–Medium	High-efficiency (HE) detergent
Clogged Drain Pump Filter Lint, hair, and debris can accumulate in the drain pump filter, causing poor drainage.	Sometimes	Medium	Drain pump filter cleaning kit
Malfunctioning Water Inlet Valve A faulty valve can prevent proper water flow, leading to incomplete cleaning and odors.	Rare	Hard	Water inlet valve assembly
Worn-Out Seals or Gaskets Over time, seals can crack or wear out, allowing water to leak and promote mold growth.	Sometimes	Medium	Rubber door seal replacement kit
Unbalanced Load Distribution Improperly distributed laundry can cause the machine to vibrate excessively and strain components.	Sometimes	Easy	Laundry distribution guide or balancing weights
Faulty Lid Switch or Door Lock A broken lid switch or door lock can prevent the machine from starting or completing cycles properly.	Rare	Hard	Lid switch or door lock assembly
Clogged Vent Hose (for vented dryers) Lint buildup in the vent hose restricts airflow and can cause overheating.	Rare	Medium	Vent hose cleaning brush or replacement hose

Parts matching

When selecting parts for your washing machine, ensure compatibility with your specific model.

Check the manufacturer’s website or user manual for part numbers.
Look for parts labeled as compatible with your washing machine’s brand and model.
Consider purchasing a cleaning kit that includes multiple essential parts for maintenance.
Verify that the part is designed for the specific function you need (e.g., drain pump filter, door seal).
Opt for high-quality parts to ensure durability and effectiveness.

Keep a record of the parts you replace for future reference and to track maintenance history.

When to call a professional

The washer machine cleaner tablets do not resolve persistent odors or mold issues.
The machine produces loud noises or fails to start after cleaning.
Water leaks continue despite cleaning and checking the seals.
Error codes persist or new error codes appear after the cleaning process.
The drain pump filter is clogged beyond simple cleaning and requires replacement.
You are unsure about the correct part or procedure for your specific washing machine model.
The machine’s performance does not improve after multiple cleaning attempts.

FAQ

How often should I use washer machine cleaner tablets?

It is recommended to use cleaner tablets once a month to maintain a clean and odor-free washing machine.

Can I use regular bleach instead of cleaner tablets?

While bleach can be used occasionally, it is not recommended as a regular substitute since it can damage rubber seals and other components over time.

What should I do if the cleaner tablet doesn’t dissolve completely?

If the tablet doesn’t dissolve, you can manually break it into smaller pieces or use a different brand that dissolves more effectively.

Is it necessary to clean the exterior of the washing machine?

Yes, cleaning the exterior and rubber seal helps prevent mold and mildew growth, ensuring a hygienic washing environment.

Can I use hot water if my washing machine doesn’t have a hot water setting?

If your machine doesn’t have a hot water setting, you can still run the cycle on the longest available setting to allow the water to heat up naturally.

What should I do if the machine still smells after using cleaner tablets?

If odors persist, you may need to clean the drain pump filter or consult a professional to check for deeper issues.