You might think your washing machine is the one thing in your home that stays clean on its own. After all, it gets a steady diet of soap and water every time you run a load. But the truth is, over time your hardworking washer can become a hiding place for mold, mildew, soap scum, and even some pretty funky smells. If you’ve ever pulled out a load of laundry that smelled worse than when it went in, or noticed a musty odor every time you open the door, it’s a sign your machine is due for a little TLC. The good news is that giving your washing machine a thorough cleaning is a simple DIY project that takes less than an hour and uses stuff you probably already have in your pantry.

Start by checking your owner’s manual if you still have it, because some manufacturers have specific cleaning instructions or warnings about certain products. But for most standard top-loaders and front-loaders, the basic process is the same. First, give the outside a gentle wipe down with a damp cloth and a mild cleaner. Pay special attention to the control panel, the top rim, and the area around the detergent drawer. Crumbs, spills, and dust can build up there and then get knocked into the wash when you close the lid.

Next, tackle the detergent drawer. Pop it out if you can – there’s usually a little release tab. Soak it in warm, soapy water for a few minutes and scrub it with an old toothbrush. You’ll be amazed at the gunk that comes out of those little crevices. Rinse it well and dry it off before putting it back.

Now for the main event. For a top-loading machine, set it on the hottest, longest cycle with an extra rinse option. Add two cups of white vinegar directly to the drum – don’t put it in the detergent dispenser. The vinegar is a natural deodorizer and help dissolve mineral deposits and soap residue. Let the machine run through the full cycle. When it finishes, sprinkle half a cup of baking soda into the drum and run another hot cycle. Baking soda works as a gentle abrasive and neutralizes odors. If your machine has a self-clean cycle, use that instead, and follow the manufacturer’s recommended amounts.

For a front-loading machine, the process is similar but you have an extra step. Front-loaders are more prone to mold and mildew because the rubber gasket around the door holds moisture. Before you run the cleaning cycles, take a rag and some vinegar or a mild bleach solution – check your manual first – and wipe down the entire rubber seal. Pull back the folds carefully, because there’s almost always gunk hiding there. Use an old toothbrush to scrub any visible mold spots. After you’ve cleaned the gasket, run the hot vinegar cycle followed by the baking soda cycle just like with the top-loader.

Once the cycles are complete, leave the door open for a few hours to let the interior dry completely. This simple habit – leaving the door open after every wash – is the single best way to prevent odors from returning. Modern machines seal tightly to save energy, but that seal traps moisture and creates a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Just cracking the door an inch or two lets air circulate and keeps things fresh.

Don’t forget the filter. Many front-loaders have a small access door at the bottom front where a filter catches lint, coins, and other debris. Check it every few months. Place a shallow pan or towel under it before opening, because water will drain out. Clean out any lint or objects, rinse the filter, and screw it back in.

Finally, give the outside a quick wipe down, including the hoses if you can reach them. Over time, hoses can get dusty or even develop tiny leaks. While you’re at it, make sure the machine is level. An unbalanced washer can vibrate and walk across the floor, which is annoying and can damage the machine over time.

You don’t need to do a deep clean every week. Aim for once every three months for most households, or more often if you live in a hard-water area or wash a lot of heavy, muddy loads. Between deep cleans, a simple monthly maintenance cycle with just hot water and a cup of vinegar can keep things on track. And always remember to remove wet clothes promptly after the cycle ends – letting them sit in the drum for hours is a surefire way to invite odors.

Your washing machine is a workhorse that deserves a little appreciation. A clean machine not only makes your clothes smell fresher, but it also runs more efficiently and lasts longer. So grab some vinegar and baking soda, set aside an hour, and give your trusty washer the cleaning it deserves. You and your laundry will notice the difference.