Methods and products may vary when cleaning front load and top load washers, so check your model's owner manual for specific information on how to clean your washer.

For step-by-step instructions, watch the video or read on for more detailed information.

Adding an Affresh® water cleaning tablet to a Maytag® top-load washer.

  • Remove any items left in the tub.

  • Add anaffresh® washing machine cleaner tablet to the bottom of the tub. If you don't have affresh® tablets, you may be able to use liquid chlorine bleach. Check your owner's manual for instructions on how to clean with bleach.

  • Close the door and select your washer's cleaning cycle.

  • For top load washers, when the cycle ends, run a rinse and spin cycle to clear away any excess cleansers.

  • Leave your washer door open to let the tub dry.

Cleaning the detergent dispenser of a Maytag® top-load washing machine.

  • Pull out the dispenser drawer until you feel resistance. Depending on your washer, the drawer may or may not be completely removable.

  • Useaffresh® machine cleaning wipes to wipe down all surfaces. If you don't have wipes, use a damp cloth. An all-purpose cleaner may be used if needed. Towel dry.

  • Note: Dispensers are not dishwasher safe.

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Leave your washer's door or lid open between washes to dry out the inside and help prevent odors.

Cleaning the door seal of a Maytag® front-load washing machine.

  • Remove any clothing or items from the washer.

  • Open the washer door or lid and wipe down the inside glass or metal withaffresh® machine cleaning wipes or a damp cloth.

  • On front load washers, use the textured side of the wipe to clean the outside of the rubber door seal. Then lift up the edge and wipe the interior surfaces as well.

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Washing with warm or hot water occasionally (not exclusively cold) will help slow down soil and detergent build up.

A woman cleaning the outside of a Maytag ® front-load washer.

Use anaffresh® machine cleaning wipe or a soft, damp cloth or sponge to wipe away any spills. Use only mild soaps or cleaners when cleaning outside surfaces.

More essential washer info

Washing Machine Settings Explained

Dive into this guide on laundry cycles — discover how they work and when to use them.

How a Washer Works: Cleaning

Learn how wash action, water temperature and detergent take on tough loads.

Tips on Using Your Top Load Washer

Get to know your top load washer with these quick tips.

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