How To Clean a Whirlpool Washing Machine
How To Clean A whirlpool Washing Machine
Cleaning your Whirlpool washing machine regularly helps to prevent bad odours, mould growth and performance issues. Over time, detergent residue, limescale, bacteria and mould accumulate inside the drum, door seal, detergent drawer and pump filter. A thorough clean every one to three months will keep your Whirlpool machine running efficiently and help to extend its lifespan.
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Why Does a Whirlpool Washing Machine Need Cleaning?
Although a Whirlpool washing machine uses water and detergent in every cycle, it does not clean itself. Residue from detergent and fabric conditioner builds up inside the drum, pipes and detergent drawer over time. Low-temperature washing programmes do not reach the temperatures needed to kill bacteria, which allows mould and unpleasant odours to develop. Limescale from hard water can accumulate on the drum and heating element, reducing efficiency and increasing energy consumption. Regular cleaning prevents these issues and keeps laundry smelling fresh.
What You Will Need
A washing machine cleaner tablet or white vinegar, a soft cloth or sponge, a small cleaning brush, and access to the pump filter at the base of the machine.
How To Clean Your Whirlpool Washing Machine
Clean the detergent drawer
Remove the detergent drawer fully by pressing the release tab and pulling it out. Rinse it under warm running water, scrubbing away any detergent or fabric conditioner residue with a soft brush. Wipe the interior of the drawer housing with a damp cloth to remove any build-up. Leave the drawer to dry before replacing it.
Clean the door seal
Pull back the folds of the rubber door seal and wipe thoroughly with a damp cloth. Remove any visible mould, fluff or debris from the seal folds. For stubborn mould, apply a small amount of diluted white vinegar to the affected areas, leave for a few minutes, then wipe clean and rinse. Dry the seal thoroughly after cleaning.
Run a hot maintenance wash
Place a washing machine cleaner tablet in the drum or add 250ml of white vinegar directly to the drum. Select the hottest programme available on your Whirlpool machine, ideally 90°C, and run it empty. The high temperature combined with the cleaner breaks down detergent residue, kills bacteria and removes limescale from the drum and internal components. This should be done at least once a month if the machine is used frequently on low-temperature programmes.
Clean the pump filter
The pump filter on Whirlpool washing machines is located behind a small cover panel at the bottom front of the machine. Place a shallow dish or towels beneath it before opening as water will drain out. Twist the filter cap anticlockwise to remove it, clear any debris such as fluff, coins or hair grips, and rinse the filter under running water. Refit the filter by twisting clockwise and ensure the cap is tightly secured to prevent leaks.
Wipe down the exterior
Wipe the outside of the machine including the door glass and control panel with a damp cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners on the control panel as these can damage the finish.
Leave the door ajar after washing
After every wash cycle, leave the Whirlpool machine door slightly open to allow the drum to dry out and prevent moisture from building up inside the seal and drum.
If You Need Spare Parts
If you are confident carrying out any repairs yourself, compatible Whirlpool washing machine cleaning products and spare parts are available on Amazon with next day delivery.
Always check your model number before ordering to ensure compatibility.
When To Contact A Professional
If unpleasant smells or performance issues persist after a thorough clean, there may be a blockage or contamination deeper within the machine’s pipework or drainage system. A qualified engineer can inspect and clean internal components that are not accessible during routine home maintenance, and can also check the heating element for limescale damage.
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🔧 Need a spare part? Find compatible parts for your appliance on Amazon with next day Prime delivery. Please double-check the part is compatible with your specific model before ordering. Find parts on Amazon
♻️ Not worth repairing? If your appliance has had its day, eco-friendly refurbished appliances are available at Renew 2 U — better for your wallet and the planet.