Clean a Washing Machine Inside: How to Remove Mold, Soap Scum and More with a CHEAP Organic Cleaner

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Since releasing this video 2 years ago, we've worked on a few thousand additional washing machines and made this formula for our own washers and yours. Consider supporting by buying! bens-appliances.com/products/wash-bomb-washing-machine-cleaning-solution

[@akeleven]

Ordered

[@lylawaters6345]

I haven't been using the cleaning tablets for my appliances because of the fragrance. Now I have an unscented substitute, thank you.

[@a3sully]

What size is the big nut that you removed? Where would I get that tool? I have same washing machine

[@CookingwithGrace-bh7mt]

Thanks! I bought the ingredients and it worked great on my old washer! 😊

[@CLW82]

Can you do this on a front load washer?

[@jimsackerman]

Thanks for spending the time to make this video. Don't be so hard on yourself or apologetic for your video editing, pretty much all content creators started off learning as go and improving through the years.

[@ahomeinpisgahontheroad4481]

Great!

[@peterwan小P]

so true, liked.

[@joshnelson7617]

Agreed, this channel is super underrated.

[@jrgaston8891]

Well said. This is extremely valuable info and I think the video was well done.

[@chrisgraham2904]

Agreed. Don't be too worried about video production. I watch these "how to /DIY/Solution" videos to gain the real world solutions to problems and the steps involved to resolve the issues. I really don't give a a crap whether it's shot in 4K, shot from perfect angles or delivered in Dolby sound. Clear concise instruction for the problem is what matters. I'm concerned that many people who have great solutions and hacks avoid producing a video to help others, because they don't possess high end video producing and editing tools. Keep doing what your doing...and thanks.

[@michaelotto8696]

PSA! Quick safety tip: DO NOT substitute regular chlorine bleach in this process. Mixing chlorine bleach with any acid will release toxic chlorine gas. And toxic means it could be deadly. Even if inhaled a little bit can cause acute damage to the upper and lower respiratory tract. If you mix chlorine bleach with anything and the smell intensifies or you notice yellow/green gas or foam forming leave the area. Ventilate the room well before returning. Oxygenated bleach is not chlorine based but a sodium salt, sodium percarbonate. This also reacts with acids but the gas released is harmless carbon dioxide.

[@eddiebrock1876]

This combo works AMAZING! I used 2 cups citric acid and half cup of Dollar General Oxy Clean and lemme tell ya the gunk it loosened up was pretty gross. 2 more cycles and it was completely clean. Thanks again.

[@makeupgrl24]

Jus curious, What water temp did you use?

[@Lauren-vd4qe]

did u have to take your washer apart and scrub it like this guy did?

[@MrsPumpkinCat]

Who in the world gave this a thumbs down?!?!? This is the best washer cleaning video I’ve seen in a long time. I commented only to bump it up in the algorithm. 👍x1M

[@Weirtoe]

Probably the CEO of the company that makes the tablets 🤣

[@Fit_soldier]

@@Weirtoe what’s a thumbs down??

[@Weirtoe]

@@Fit_soldier a negative review on the video

[@Pressity1]

@@Fit_soldierthey used to show how many dislikes/thumbs down videos got, but in this “everyone gets a trophy for participating” and “no one is allowed to offend anyone” world, they don’t show how many dislikes videos get anymore.

[@TheOtherBill]

@@Pressity1 Install browser extension "return youtube dislike" and you have it back.

[@achbymcc3699]

Hey Ben,this is the best video I have ever seen in reference to appliance service. You are the only person I have ever seen to be so thorough good job. Looking forward to seeing more of your work. Respect and gratitude.

[@livinglife8333]

Older machines are far superior to anything built today, I’ve wasted so much money on newer washers and they all rust out. I found an older drum washer and had it refurbished and it runs like a dream.

[@GoaWay...]

Where did you find it, and where did you get it refurbished if you don't mind me asking?

[@DiscoveryWonders]

rust is caused by bleach. it's better to always properly rinse the washer after adding anything any detergent that contains bleach. after a drum bleach (aka super cleaning but potentially corrosive to metal acid wash ) is important to rinse like 2 x with something like baking soda ( alkaline solution to neutralize any acids).

[@Cubby113able]

@@GoaWay... look online for a local place near you that sells rebuilt washing machines. There are a couple near where I live. They're just as good or even better than buying a new one and they're a fraction of the cost as well. The guy who does it where I live said the very same thing as "Living Life" did. The older style washers are much more durable than the new ones. The simpler the design of the washing machine the better.

[@GoaWay...]

@@Cubby113able ok thank you. I hope some of those kinds of places are around the place I live. 🙂

[@demoniack81]

@@DiscoveryWonders Bleach is a base, not an acid...

[@annnee6818]

Thank you so much this is really helpful advice Edit: guys, I tried it, this really really works. My washing used to come out of the washer smelling kinda musty, which would dissipate after drying but told me there's probably a lot of muck in there. I had tried a commercial washing machine cleaner before but it did nothing, so I figured it was a scam. Buy ih no Did precisely what OP said and my laundry smells GREAT now, even right from the washer. Put the citric and oxi through on the 90 degrees celcius 2 hour full cycle skipping the pre-soak and it is so much better. I'll do this every 3 months from now on. THANKS!!

[@psdaengr911]

How old are your water heater and washer? 90C is hot enough to shrink most "white" fabrics and damage most colored ones.

[@autumnramble]

@@psdaengr911 90C is usually used to clean bedsheets, especially if someone in family is sick, not for everyday washing.

[@annnee6818]

@@psdaengr911 I didn't use that concoction on laundry. I had it empty. And I've washed my sheets on 90, they're designed to take it, I usually do 65. Washer is 12 yo

[@tikab7051]

Sir this video is a blessing 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 I’m doing my best as a single mom to clean and get my house in the best shape I can afford so I can sell it to start a new life for my son and I and you have just saved money so much money. I really appreciate how thorough you were and how you explain the WHYS of how things work but doing that you arm us with the tools to use these listens in other places they may apply. Again thank you sir

[@equalleftrights3130]

Is it necessary to announce to the world how you've made horrible, selfish life decisions to become a single mother?? No one feels sorry for you, this isn't tv or hollywood. People outside of that little world understand you only become a single mother one way. Selfish life decisions..lady, YOU did pick that person as the father of your children. It was YOUR choice wasn't it? Single mothers are the biggest evil on planet earth, why do you think you should announce that? You NEED to stop watching so much tv. Live in reality. In the real world, we all have problems and some not due to selfish, irresponsible life decisions like yours so why do you feel you need special attention or pity? Again, no one put a loaded weapon to your head and forced you to get pregnant regardless the excuses you will now bombard us with. It was YOUR decision and yours only. Get a handle on your narcissism, it will do you some good.

[@OnlyFactsPlease]

never underestimate the value of a good, long soak! Good demonstration, thank you.

[@carriestaker3856]

And the powerful value of a second rinse cycle with a quarter to half(no more!)cup of white vinegar! Cuts soap suds so clothes are well rinsed- vinegar helps keep the inner tubs free from buildup!

[@dbberrydb]

You put a ton of time and thought into this video! And it paid off well. Very professional presentation and works for dummies (like me) easy to follow along not boring. Thank You!

[@Yhrim70]

Just repaired and cleaned a washer/dry stack unit. We had used it for several years, but it was about 24 years old. couldn't hardly believe what was under the agitator and between the tubs. I took my power washer and cleaned it outside. But in the end, it's as clean as it was when it was built. Really glad to have found your video, now I know how to keep it that way. Thanks!

[@TroaBarton]

This is a very good tutorial, thank you for an in depth and concise video. These are the gems you don’t come across on here very often.

[@gregorystatt5562]

For the average homeowner, this is a pretty cool way to clean. For use crazy dudes out here that rebuild these awesome Whirlpool washers, the best way is to always pull the drum, pressure wash is, shrub the outer tub. Then use a good RTV sealant around the rubber center seal so you never have a leak from it. Or, better yet of course, replace the rubber center seal vecasue it's less than $10. But, sometimes the basket drive gets rusty and you will have to sand and paint before you slide that new seal on. I also will get some good hi temp paint and repaint the washer drum. If you do it right, let it dry properly, it will look amazing and last for many years. Wash on! 🤘

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Great tips! Thanks for all of the good advise. We almost always re do the tub seals as they are so cheap

[@gregorystatt5562]

Bonus tip. Many early series HE Whirlpool, Amana,etc have tubs that fit in older Whirlpool brands. You have to switch the balance ring but the tubs are so much newer and easier to clean. Wash on 🤘

[@nickelrider]

Ok so I let the citric acid sit for the night. Ran a cycle this morning and the break up was insane. I went and got generic oxyclean and a fish tank net. Added the oxyclean, let it run for a while. Let it sit for a few hours. Ran it again. This time it produced 10x as much crude. Now the only issue is how many cycles and skims before the residue is reduced. Totally unreal and distrubing seeing how much crap was inside a 10 year old washer. This is a public health crisis few people seem to be aware of. How many people have "toxic tubs" and have no idea... 😬😵

[@KoffeeKat18]

Do you stop the load cycle with a lot of water in it and let it sit and then restart the next day?

[@nickelrider]

@@KoffeeKat18 yes. Took about 3 days start to finish.

[@thehomeplatespecial597]

Great post. Thank you.

[@Killertomato84]

Try working for a rent to own furniture and appliance store. The machines we get back look like they've been through both world wars after only a few months. Roach infested, thick layers of soap scum, pet hair, general dirt and grime. Boss gets mad that it takes me so long to clean one up but i'm like... i can't send these things back out looking like that.

[@manestage5403]

@@Killertomato84 I’m moving into a new house with a washer and dryer. I’m renting so I have to use what’s there. It was an assisted living with quite a few residents before now, so I’m scared of what I’m going to find after doing this. 😳 Roaches, you say??😳

[@alexnmarty]

Thanks! For this and your washplate and hub videos. Heck, all of your videos are no-nonsense and right to the point. This is a small token compared to what you've saved me. I'd love to see a video on the ice-maker issues plaguing Samsung French door refrigerator.

[@errolsimmonds4133]

Not overly worded or complicated for no reason. Awesome video thanks.👍🏾

[@69dblcab]

I watched this video a few times a few weeks ago. I have now done our front loader. Picked a cycle and let it run. water wash dark in the window until rinse cycle. I also have done a traditional 30 year old Roper top loader. I used straight hot water (no boiling water added) and cold rinse cycle. I also needed to clean the top 4 rows of plugged holes. I did this intermittently. As I would allow machine to agitate and then stop it and let it sit while I cleaned holes. I pulled the agitator and and cleaned under and inside it. I spent 4 to 5 hours all total . I would let it agitate and then sit for 20 minutes. I kept doing this until water had cooled significantly. It took three rinse wash cycles until all the debris was flushed out. Drum, agitator and inside almost look new and sparkle. Got rid of the red Iron staining from our water, too. Downeast NC. I used 4 Tbps of Oxi-clean and towards 2 cups of Citric acid. Ebay for 5 Lbs. Best price for smallish qty per pound. Could not find none food grade in small qty. Will definitely do this again. Thanks Video Creator.

[@manestage5403]

Thank you for this detailed testimony! I was wondering what temperature I should use. So I will use hot just as you did. Thanks again!👏🏾

[@mzny4314]

Thanks for letting us know the details of your cleaning, it’s really helped us out!

[@JohnSmith-tv5ep]

Just a question, do you think that over time running citrus acid thru the wash/rinse cycles will cause any other issues such as drain pump and/or discharge hoses breaking down? Thanks.

[@lisacyr8636]

Do you know how to do a front loader? So that it’s able to fill and brings the water level up high enough?

[@Luvurenemy]

@@JohnSmith-tv5ep I read about this as well. It seems if you do it too often and too much you can shorten the life of the components. “Dose makes the poison.”

[@PapaA7145]

Another chemical to use is TSP, not the substitute but the real stuff. Usually found in the paint prep area of stores like Home Depot. Phosphate was the original cleaner used in all laundry and dishwasher detergents. Govt. restrictions required the removal of the phosphate. It was replaced with citric acid and salt. Add about a 1/4 teaspoon of TSP to your favorite detergent in the clothes and dishwasher for improved cleaning.

[@Beglozano]

Phosphates are banned from detergents because they're extremely bad for the environment and marine life. Please don't use them!

[@Anonymous-zi5wr]

You can see how dirty it was on that side by side comparison. Your video and editing are fine. Excellent video. Cleaning out the tub thoroughly for the next owner shows the content of your character. Impressive!

[@CookieCreamOreo]

I’ve been watching several videos on how to clean my washer. Yours is by far the best!!! Thx for the great info and visuals.

[@crystalcolon9792]

Agreed❤

[@Rita-yw2tn]

I just happened to see this video and I’m glad that I did because first of all you seem to be an honest man and you take pride in what you do and I myself appreciate that about a person . Secondly my daughter’s washing machine needs to be cleaned so I’m definitely going to show this to her thank you . 😊

[@kathryncooper4001]

WOW! I never thought about what my 40-year-old Maytag might look like on the inside. I think I'll put it on my calendar to treat it once a month. Thanks for a very informative video.

[@bun04y]

I have a 30y/o Frigidaire that I've never cleaned. Off to find some citric acid!

[@lgoamity]

Got a relatively new Sideload HE Washer downstairs as the House's Primary (and it gets a tablet every month or when the Clean Warning Light comes on)... But we also have a used (almost 40 year old) top load model for BIG loads (Bedding, etc.) and backup... Can't say we've really spent any time trying to do any Preventative Maintenance Cleaning... Suppose that will change soon.

[@Melinda8162]

@@bun04y Never heard of it! LoL.

[@brettoconnor1]

Great video. I tried this and worked great but added one more step. I used my sous vide and plopped it in the washing machine and left it running overnight on the highest temp to keep water at 140F. Woke up next morning and it was clean as new.

[@barbrn]

What's "sous vide"?

[@thejohnbeck]

​@barbrn a sous vide is a cooking tool. You can set the temperature to want the water to be, and plug it in and leave it to maintain the temperature of the water. You can use this to cook food to work 1 degree of a certain temperature. It's great for streaks because you will always get the correct doneness

[@horatiobeaker]

Great video. No need to apologize for any perceived short. The points you made came across well and extremely useful. Thank you. I’m headed down to the basement to clean my washer right now.

[@Fourcatz]

This video inspired me to convince my husband to take apart our whirlpool washer today. It is only 6 years old but it was pretty dirty. I ordered the products you reccomended and will use them to prevent this terrible problem. All in all it was surprisingly fun and satisfying to clean. I feel like I have a brand new washer!!!! Thanks so much for this video!😎

[@imlew7853]

Make it simple. I put persil in the detergent compartment, 75% vinegar (1tsp) + citric acid in the softener compartment, oxyclean+citric acid+2 morton salt pellets in the drum before clothes. Those frustrating years of keeping the whites super white, getting rid of odor and stain and most of all, keeping the fabric like new, silky and soft for years and years have been solved. AND with added bonus, this formula keeps the machine free from build-ups..................DO NOT forget Mrs. Stewart's bluing agent. Will keep your whites and colors glow from wash after wash.

[@justachick3114]

did you know that TANG has a BUTTLOAD of citric acid in it? hahaha My sister figured it out when living in town and used it for years to clean her dishwasher regularly! Thanks for this. Im going to order some citric acid for my really old Kenmore washing machine today!!!

[@johnc7512]

I love how this guy doesn't BS like most youtubers. 👍

[@marypatmuich2130]

All I can say is wow! Thank you for the clear explanation, demonstration and and tips. You conduct a business with integrity!

[@AlphagirlMae]

Just found your video. Spent the entire day call to find a technician to fix out 6 year old Speed Queen. No one fixes speed queen anymore and the company makes you wait 3-5 days for any response. I think the Alliance LLC that makes Speed Queen is having issues. Very few retailers sell them too. I learned alot from your video and will run a vinegar and borax wash test to see if the rotten eggs smells go away. And will clean my machine once a month. Thanks for you video.

[@michaellevesque7032]

Good info here. I refurbish washers and dryers as a side hustle and just ordered some to start adding this to my refurbishing process. Depending on how much disassembly I've already got to do in repairing, I keep a pressure washer nearby but this will be a time saver for machines I dont need to tear down

[@MarcyStuart]

I wish the guy who sold me my used Kenmore had cleaned it; I have gunk all over my laundry right now.

[@Marlin101084]

The other issue you didn't mention is that detergents have changed over the years, contributing to the buildup, and also the use of fabric softeners. My washer looked almost this bad after just a few years, but instead of great-looking, it was lighter from the soft, waxy buildup. No cleaners or specialized cleaning cycles helped. The slight odor would return within a week. Now, I also have a large family with teens, and it runs probably 10+ cycles a week.. so that also contributed. I have taken it apart to clean it with a pressure washer twice in 10 years. It went longer after the first wash, I believe because I banished fabric softener from our house.

[@themikeroberts]

A waxy buildup is probably from fabric softener or soap scum (which shouldn't be a problem with any modern, mainstream detergent). For that, I'd just use washing soda (aka sodium carbonate) or oxiclean, which is mostly washing soda, on the hottest wash cycle you have. The citric acid used in this video won't help with it (it instead helps with hard water/mineral buildup) and will actually impair the cleaning ability of washing soda/oxiclean.

[@Marlin101084]

@@themikeroberts My wife has thrown cleaners specifically marketed for cleaning washers in there in the past that didn't seem to have any real impact- I'm curious if they use sodium carbonate. If not, I'll get some and give that a try. Thanks for the suggestion! Our machine does have a dedicated cleaning cycle that specifies not using any cleaners.. but it uses the second highest heat setting and that can't be adjusted. When I have tried some of these ideas, I'll use the only cleaning cycle that allows selecting the "Extra Hot" temperature setting. I have even been thorough to the point of cranking our water heater to the highest setting and waiting for it to reach it, run the washer/cleaning cycle, then turn the water heater back down immediately. (Normally set at 120F at the tap, the highest setting could give almost 150F right after it cuts the flame at the tank.) I don't know just how effective each method is, as I wasn't disassembling between runs, but banning fabric softener from the house definitely seemed to make the biggest difference.

[@Cautionary_Tale_Harris]

It's amazing how the price of the citric acid you used has essentially doubled in just over three years.

[@mzny4314]

I was just wondering about that… Yikes 😬

[@GiveMeCoffee]

Thanks, I was considering buying citric acid in order to clean our electric kettles and thermos, and knowing I can use it for maintenance on my washing machine is great!

[@nickijaycox7773]

Thank you so much for this. My husband has citric acid but now I know I can use it to clean my washer, kudos to you my friend... 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@georgemcdonald8775]

One of the most detailed well done videos that I have ever seen! Great work! Thank you.

[@victorhoe2321]

Hey Ben, Our 20 year old LG front loader had a mildew smell to it. Two things I did was keeping the front loader door open to air dry over night. To kill the mildew by just running a cup of bleach through the wash cycle without any clothes. We're in Colorado so humidity is not often an issue.

[@tanvirulislam6479]

Ben, you are good man. Really appreciate for sharing the secret of properly cleaning a washing machine. Only God knows what I haven’t tried to get rid of the musty smell from our machine but nothing worked. Will definitely give this a try. Thanks again.

[@bondarenkodf]

I always use 100-200 grams of CA to clean my washing machine ones per 4-6 month. I use the 60C cleaning program and turn the machine off in the middle of cycle to give CA time to dissolve deposits. After the program was completed, I ran two short cycles to wash out the CA from the inner parts of WM.

[@evamz9584]

Thank God I didn't go through 9,000 videos before I found this one 🙏 This video is everything, thankyou ❤

[@simplyj_17]

I did but his was my last video before I was going to take apart my washer lol 😂

[@freshtapcoke]

This was a great video! Thank you for the level of effort and detail in tearing down the machine and providing before and after shots.

[@nogames8982]

I have a Kenmore washer and dryer that is 25 years old. They have never been worked on although I did have the service guy come out once about five years ago because I thought maybe they needed worked on. He said they were great. Nothing you can buy today will ever match those old machines. I talk nice to him every day and hope they last another 25 years. I have a friend in Europe and she says that over there the consumer does not tolerate disposable items. Most of the appliances over there last for years and years. Not like the ones here that fall apart, and are actually meant to fall apart relatively quickly.

[@jodykidp5396]

these older washer are by far better than the newer washer, easy to work on mainly do it yourself. They seem to last forever! I'll be cleaning my washer soon, I clean my dish washer with citric acid, Lemi Shine add to just the wash cycle with my dishes, cleans it up nicely and helps clean my dishes.. Citric Acid is the best for washers and dishwashers..

[@kellilangan8674]

This was such a helpful video! I can't wait to try this. The mildew smell I am having in my laundry is driving me CRAZY!

[@sharksport01]

Me too!

[@simplyj_17]

Same.

[@eb9844]

Did you try it? My washer is in the basement and I could smell the mildew as soon as I come in the house. It’s making my anxiety go through the roof!!!

[@Austin8thGenTexan]

I'm guessing that you never use chlorine bleach on a hot water (white clothing / towels only) cycle if you're smelling mildew (?) 🤔

[@eb9844]

@@Austin8thGenTexan I do. But then the smell comes back after a couple of days. The other week I removed the cap from the bottom of my front loader and let all the water run out. I didn’t use the washer for about a week and NO smell. I think the design of these washing machines having this water reserve is the cause of the mold and smells.

[@flamaest]

You can do this without opening it up on these old units. All you have to do is let it run part of a cycle with a little bit of water and then unplug it and let it sit there for a while. Then plug it back in and let the cycle complete.....

[@stowie5790]

How many of us are now cleaning their washing machines…and putting it on the calendar to do monthly?!?!?! Thanks for the tutorial!

[@catibree1]

Boy, I really do appreciate this video... I have never cleaned out my washer other than adding vinegar to it at times... but. then I have no idea of how well that solution does... but this is definitely a game changer.. Thank you for this tid bit of information...

[@ZeldaLuffy]

I always use a bit of vinegar as a rinse as opposed to fabric softener. Once I had the Whirlpool guys do a full maintenance on washer and dryer. The guy asked me if I ever used my machine. I didn't understand his question. Of course I use it. Every day. He said it looked new and had no build up. He had never seen one so clean. I think it probably has something to do with my vinegar rinse and lack of softener.

[@2010stoof]

If you have an HE front or top load, look up how to remove your dispenser tray. Everyone forgets that. Bought a house with Samsung top load washer and dryer and wash nice and clean. Then pulled tray and it was all black on back out tray you don't see when pulled out while still connected. And the hole it sits in had a ton of black. Bleach and water cleaned it Now I leave the door and tray open to dry since I've got it all cleaned now

[@opera5714]

There is more still down that tube. I've taken mine apart several times down to th tub. I have same washer at camp which is solar, free hot water. Cold inlet is connected to hot water. That soap dispenser is still spotless after years. Same machine as at home. Cold water to dispense detergents just doesn't work.

[@fsamaroo337]

This is so true, I've had to clean mine a few times. I never really thought to pull it out and check it. I took a rag and cleaned the inside where the tray goes as well.

[@lisacyr8636]

We have a small little fan that we throw in the door of the washer right at the rubber gasket and it stays on between loads to dry the gasket faster. I would kill to find a tool/brush that I could get down between the drum. I’ve taken Clorox wipes and rolled them up and stuff them down as far as I could get and it’s gross what comes out, but it’s just to shallow.

[@chrispappas6131]

Ben, I commend you for wanting to give your customers the cleanest washing machine "on the inside" as well as the outside. Keep up the good work. I, too, run my business with high ethics and morals America and our society have deteriorated with most companies trying to take advantage of the customer. The "Made in China" crap that companies are selling us has destroyed this country.

[@angelagcia90]

Thanks for this video, the washer in the apartment had lots of build up and I used some citric acid, and oxiclean, as recommended in ur video it looked awesome afterwards! Took a cleaning rag with a small amount of vinegar to shine it up, vacuumed up any of the crumb’s lol great video!

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Love it!

[@crybebebunny]

Very interesting. I have never been aware of needing to wash the washer or that those tablets existed.

[@palco22]

For what it's worth; Great presentation, easy to follow and well done.

[@jrzzrj]

👍 Excellent tutorial! One problem tho...If I took our machine apart with the ease as you did, I assure you, I would never be able to get it back together in working order. Our machine is 24 yrs old, looks and runs as the day it was delivered new. There is no odor or any malfunctioning. So...in my case, I will just leave well enough alone. But thanks anyway! lol

[@jpsmooth616]

Thanks for the well explained video 👍. Bought a used washer dryer set 13 yrs ago & still running strong & quiet.Did regular baking soda/vinegar rinses when smell came back.After watching this video last nite,I now finished opening mines & cleaned it very gd.looks new & dont smell now.about to put it back together & do my first wash.family is waiting to redo there wash 😂🤣😂🤣.

[@Pammellam]

Here in Japan new machines come with a very slow 8 hour “wash the washer” cycle. They work great!

[@TH-eb5ro]

Some newer machines in the US come with that cycle also.

[@wordreet]

Thanx for uploading this Ben! I never considered that a washing machine could get that bad! I'll be running a few cycles with some sort of cleaner, right after I've replaced the heating element that just arrived.

[@thenoneckpeoplerepresentat8074]

I’ve never seen a heating element in a washing machine.

[@farmgirl8629]

Wow I learned a lot with this video. I have never cleaned the inside of my washer. I love my old style washer so this is definitely getting done!

[@CanCanGibs]

Thanks so much for this video! It helped a TON on our 22 year old Kenmore. She and the dryer are still kicking! 💪🏼

[@indi1omccoln565]

When I brought my first house back in 2018 my dad offered to buy me any washer and dryer I wanted as a gift for getting started I went to a refurbished store and picked out the biggest Maytag set they had for maybe a little under $700 doesn’t come with an agitator which is ok for me. I have no regrets still. I leave my door open when I’m done washing. I have no plans to replace it anytime soon. But I’ll be picking up some citric acid now for sure. Great video

[@jamesmilos9909]

Wow! Thanks for all your the effort that went into this video! Fantastic job! Interestingly, the other tablet ingredients on the list were digestive enzymes.

[@beckyshell4649]

I had a perfectly functioning washing machine and didn't have a dryer. I wanted a nice matching set and bought a front-loading set. I hated the washer . It was always a chore to try to keep the washer from stinking. They say the smell is because there is always a bit of water in the bottom of the inside drum. The washer broke once and I fixed it thanks to youtube. The next time it broke I trashed it and got an old-school used set. I like the old set so much better, the clothes are brighter and smell cleaner. I also like that a cycle can be stopped to allow a long soak. My friend had a frontloader that broke the repair was to be $350 for a new board. The repairman said he could not guarantee that the new board would not instantly blow again.

[@firedog665]

Thanks, I spent the money to get citric acid and oxy clean. Total of $40 bucks. Cleaned gunk and scrud out. I used two cups of citric acid and a scoop load of oxy. So easy to get this done!! Also put a little citric acid in the dishwasher to clean it out. Thanks again.

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Way to go! I want to do this in a dishwasher and video it soon!

[@johnjohnson5116]

Great video I’ve got the exact same machine never cleaned it once. I guess I know what I’m doing this weekend

[@janstafford1365]

Thank you Ben!! Considerate of you to pass along your knowledge, the demonstration is much appreciated. I wonder if cleaning the inside like you do is a standard practice of resale appliance stores or if your store goes above and beyond the others. Thanks for helping.

[@mzny4314]

Thanks for this wonderful video, it’ll help with keeping my washer clean. I’ve cleaned the tub 5 years ago by hand and that was difficult! This time around I bought a spanner wrench but couldn’t get the tub out. I’m definitely going to try the citric acid plus some tips that are in the comment section 😊. Thanks again!

[@E.P.7131]

Thanks for stating the name of that tool!

[@AxelSituation]

This is the best video that I have ever seen on cleaning machines. Thank you!!

[@valentinasylvester4709]

I am buying citric acid tomorrow & clean my washer! Thanks!

[@erikaberglund2564]

Thank you for this great video, Ben! We have an old top loader just like this one. We take it fully apart exactly like you show, every 6 months to clean it. It is a huge chore and it's always gross, even though I clean all the grime and scum off the drum and the plastic tub, and even take the drain hoses off to clean out. For unknown reasons, there continues to be a funky mildewy smell even after doing this entire process of cleaning everything. I will try this and see if it works instead of taking it apart! I did YEARS of research & experiments on this issue before learning how to take it apart, and realized no detergent or cleaner could remove the amount of scum that builds up. But, I haven't tried citric acid. I have to use a paint scraper on the drum exterior to get it off. I only use natural laundry soap (Nellie's laundry soda) and vinegar in the rinse. My whole family is sensitive to all the chemical detergents and perfumes. Years ago I learned that most people use too much detergent and the toxic fat-based softeners like Downy act like glue in the machines. I've never used those and yet the scum buildup is still a problem. Hopefully this method will solve that! I've intentionally kept this old machine b/c I know the new ones are problematic, barely use any water, have major mold issues and I cannot take them apart.

[@psdaengr911]

Check the drain hose. Lots of stuff gets stuck to the inside of "corregated" drain hoses". Some of the water in them drains back into the machine after every cycle. If you have the cabinet apart, use a weak chlorine bathroom cleaner spray to mist the inner cabinet and the area around he machine. If your washer is in a basment, don't store dirty or clean clothes down there. If it still smells like mold, do a no-clothes white wash cycle max level, max length, hot with 2 cups of clorine bleach. If you don't have a soak interval, stop the machine during the wash cycle and let it sit for 1-2 hours. Do a second cycle with no chemicals.

[@erikaberglund2564]

@@psdaengr911 Thank you. I always pull the drain hoses off and clean them at the same time. It is a bad design that water sits in the plastic tub after each wash. The amount of sediment and grime in the bottom of the tub (when we take it apart) is gross. I have done bleach cycles years ago and it didn't make a difference. This most recent soaking w 2 cups citric acid & 1/2 c oxobright (natural version of oxiclean) did the most help. I started with small load size & hot water, let it soak for 4 hours, then filled to largest load and added more water to deal with scum line. I then let soak 24 hours with several agitations in between. The water was smelly and pulled out some of the grime. Since then the washer smell is better (not 100%) so we'll still likely need to take it apart every 6 months.

[@trevorrisley5419]

@@erikaberglund2564you can get rid of all detergents by switching to ozonated water! You can always use cold water and detergents aren’t necessary unless y’all’re farmers, chefs, or mechanics; with an extreme grease and dirt load detergents can be necessitated. Another awesome thing about ozone is that it would naturally cleanse all the gunk build up in your washing machine, too ; therefore, extending the life of your washer. I forgot the name of the company that makes them, but their marketing was absolutely wonderful. 🙂

[@erikaberglund2564]

@@trevorrisley5419 thanks Trevor! I had not heard of using ozonated water. I’ll look into it.

[@thedrunkengardenernb]

If you have hard water, adding 1/2 cup borax and a tsp or so of citric acid to every cycle will benefit your clothes and machine

[@praiseHim1962]

Great video Ben!! I was thrilled to see you scrub the inside of the tub clean!! It’s so hard to watch when the crud and built up grime remains on the inner and outer tub walls. There are so many great videos on KZbin about cleaning and repairing old washers, but yours are some of the best!! I am so glad there are people like you saving the old machines, they deserve it and the new ones are pretty much useless. Thanks for your time in making this video.

[@shawnagunn9054]

I clean my washer. Friends and family will say how do you do laundry? Yours always smell so good! And it does!

[@janeforever]

This video is fantastic. I have a Kenmore series 90 & it's never been cleaned. How long should you let the solution set? I'm sure I'll have to do this multiple times. We had a repair person out once & he never mentioned cleaning. My husband now fixes our machine whenever it needs it (rarely). BTW the repair guy said we should keep it as long as we can because the old machines are much better than the new ones, altho they do use more water. So I'll keep mine forever, probably give it to 1 of my kids as it'll outlast me. & they don't build 'em like they used!

[@djara6890]

Hey Ben do you have a front load washer version of this video? Tons of mildew smelling loads. Need to fix. Thank you for helpful videos

[@Lauren-vd4qe]

thats the curse of front load washers; get rid of it; get a top loader.

[@shikhalemuel6802]

Try using dishwashing tabs ti clean it, If it does not work, get rid of it.

[@djara6890]

I just removed gasket and soaked in bleach and warm water cleaned right off . Good as new.

[@kaybutler2394]

At the very end if this video, he said it would work on front load washers. I would think the ratio would be the same, but only use about 1/4-1/3 of the amounts for top load washer since front load washers use so much less water. I’m just not sure if you can run an empty load for front load washers. I would probably run it on the soak cycle and then reduce the spin time to almost nothing … maybe on gentle cycle for spin.

[@mIRChele]

@@Lauren-vd4qe in Europe even top loaders are made like a front loader. There's no agitator inside and the drum rotates around the horizontal axis, with a door put in a segment of the drum itself

[@nancyhentschel9026]

Ben! You are the BEST! Thank you... I did take it all apart and clean tubs by hand. I will use citrus acid for maintenance.

[@benjaminandrews3893]

I have seen many DIY videos over the years and I must say you did a fantastic job with this one! Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge. It truly is appreciated. 🤘

[@rls161]

Wow, I had no idea what they looked like taken apart, especially underneath the washer tub! Great Job!

[@franks6857]

Thanks, now I've got another job on my honey- do list! 😃

[@JohnSmith-tv5ep]

Or, ......."Honey,....I bought you a new washing machine" !!! Lol

[@MentalPistol]

I have an old kenmore top loader like this one. There's some sticky lint patches on the clothes after every wash. Obviously something needs cleaning in the washer. I'll try this.

[@JohnSmith-tv5ep]

Fabric softeners more than likely or ....maybe the kids left bubble gum in their pants pockets. Lol

[@heavyd777]

Ugh, those old Whirlpool washer locknuts! I do not miss those. Nor do I miss those GE washer centrifugal brake/clutches. Nice job, Ben!

[@JAG77productions]

Wow I had no idea how dirty they were!!! The only reason im here is got a free washer that had alot of trash in it. Bleach vinegar and arm and hammer did nothing. Was originally just looking how to remove washer plate. Ether way thanx man! Your treating your customers right by cleaning them!!

[@julieh9679]

Just ordered some citric acid to clean my washer! Thanks for the info.

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Hope you love it!

[@caroldunn2306]

I just ordered a bag too...I couldn’t find the 25 pound bag but I got the 10 pd and it was $36.00..best price I could find. Can’t wait to get it and try it out!

[@i-changeus]

Love this topic and approach--using elements that will break down quickly, instead of toxic 'forever' chemicals. Thank you!

[@GMA4441]

I use distilled white vinegar in every load instead of fabric softener. It cleans all soap out of clothes and cleans the machine, too. And, I ALWAYS leave the washing machine lid open, to prevent mold.

[@pakaza]

Thank you so much for making this vid. To actually tapart a washer to see whats really behind the scenes has to be the best comparison video I've seen.

[@skyoneasassin]

Thanks man! I've been scrubbing our washer with what I could reach for years, I'm definitely giving this a try

[@hectorjones5989]

I wanted to do what you did because some machines can get really dirty. Thank you for your video, very well done. I just have to work up some courage. Have a great day and again, thank you. I look forward to seeing your next video…

[@henriettasmith2618]

Thank you for reaching me the term “goof nugget” and absolutely making my night

[@pabloascencio7397]

This is incredible. Thank you for showing your results!

[@janinna7480]

Omg I’m going to go clean my super old (very reliable) washing machine right now.

[@Ringcreevy51]

Thanks! Just ordered the Bomb! Looking forward to a clean older machine. My repairman told me to hang onto these old ones.

[@alisonthetford2226]

Ben, I used 1/4 cup citric acid and 1/2 cup oxyclean for my front load washer- AMAZING results! No more musty smell! Thank you!

[@strawberyyicecreamdream216]

Wow I am definitely not dedicated enough for this but what a great tutorial. You sated a curiosity I've had for a while and given me useful info. I'll for sure try the citric acid.

[@organicintelligence3137]

Nice to see the level of cleaning you provided for this washer☺️

[@Simon-pl2zi]

The advice I got for my front loader, is to run the hottest cycle, without clothes or detergent, once every month, and also to never use softener as softener is known to cause build up and drainage issues. Over 10 years, I have followed this advice and have had zero build up or drainage issues. A newer machines need less detergent, so we use minimal detergent.

[@faithandprovidence]

Literally saw this video a few weeks ago…and tried it today! 🙊😱😳…it was amazing!!!!! I have my moms old washer and to my knowledge it’s NEVER been washed. I could see the nasty on the wall, let alone who knows what the inside looks like? I couldn’t bear to spend $25 on Amazon so just bought a $5 Ball Citric Acid at Walmart…just to try. I think it was 14oz? I poured the whole thing in! 😬Plus 2T of Oxi Clean. Put it on SUPER, and Hottest. I left the lid up so it could soak. Then ever few hours came by to let it spin. Then lid back up. Probably soaked it for 6ish hours? Then let it run its full cycle. Oh my word. Literally, I wish I could show pictures! It looks new inside! I’m shocked! Running a final hot water one more time. Thank you so much for sharing this info! I won’t cringe now every time I do laundry! And will definitely keep up the maintenance now! ✅👏🏼🙌🏼🎊

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

I'm so glad to hear this worked great for you!!!

[@victoriaaguilar266]

Leaving the lid open after each wash on any washer will prevent mold.

[@dbrown6941]

Was going to add that. Never ever keep the lid closed . I have a 2001 Kenmore still going strong and never any mold or mildew. I don't even close the lid when it's running. Had to bypass the lid switch years ago when it broke.

[@golf-n-guns]

Exactly. Never leave a washer lid closed when not in use. Same goes with a dishwasher, crack the door open to dry it out!

[@popeye7815]

Exactly

[@boomie2683]

I'm in an apartment so the washer is older, we always leave the lid open but I'm trying to figure out how to get the gunk out of the inside like I mean GUNK not mold 😩

[@popeye7815]

@@boomie2683 Drop in a Dishwasher tab, I use Finish Tabs..Wash on hottest water temp..You may have do more than once..You may want put in two of them if that bad.. I do this every month or two..

[@alicephillips3214]

I usually do several loads of wash each week, one load always includes oxy-clean but the last load is always whites which I start at night before going to bed and after agitating a while I turn off and restart in the morning using the longest cycle. I have a top loader and will never change. Once a month I run white vinegar and washing soda on the longest cycle. I use low suds soap and half as much as they say. If I use fabric softner it is diluted with water so it will not gum up the holder. My washer is over 20 years old and no odor ever came from it or my clothes and very little maintenance calls. Common sense

[@jimmyb1559]

Great video. Our new place came with a like new washer but did have a musty odor to it. Now I know why! If I lived anywhere near you I would definitely be a customer of yours. Thanks for taking the time I appreciate it very much.

[@elizabeththomas5926]

This is such a very good video covering cleaning the washing machine tub. I was particularly impressed that you disassembled the machine for the before and after footage. I fully intend cleaning my machine using the Citric Acid and Oxy. I think you are brilliant,,,, any ideas on how to REALLY descale my Bissell vac & steam cleaner??

[@bethdavis7812]

Hey Ben, I love the Scioto Post too! Your new location looks awesome and your cleaning the used washers is great, means you are selling a good clean product.