Appliances · low safety risk
Run the washer cleaning cycle
Use the model-specific cycle and approved cleaner to reduce residue and odors.
- How often
- Monthly or as directed
- Time
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Editorial status
- Awaiting human review
Before you begin
Supplies
- Cleaner approved by the washer manufacturer
How to do it
- Read the washer manual for the cleaning-cycle name, cleaner, and preparation.
- Make sure the drum is empty and remove visible foreign objects safely.
- Add only the approved amount of cleaner to the specified location.
- Run the complete cycle, then follow the manual’s drying or door-position guidance.
Stop and get help when
- Chemical odor or irritation
- Leakage
- Error code
- Foreign object cannot be removed safely
Stop and ventilate the area for unexpected fumes or irritation. Arrange appliance service for leakage, repeated errors, electrical concerns, or persistent odor after approved cleaning.
Sources and review
Written by Upkeeping editorial team. This draft is awaiting human subject-matter and safety review and is not eligible for search indexing.