A clean washer cycle is a specialized washing machine program designed to thoroughly clean the internal components of your appliance, eliminating odors, detergent residue, mold, and mildew buildup. It's an essential maintenance routine to keep your washer performing optimally and your laundry smelling fresh.
During this powerful cycle, the washing machine utilizes higher water volumes than a standard wash, combined with a dedicated cleaning agent like an affresh® washer cleaner or liquid chlorine bleach. This combination works synergistically to scrub and flush away grime and bacteria that accumulate in areas not typically reached during a regular laundry load, such as the wash tub, dispenser drawers, and hoses.
The Deep Cleaning Process Explained
The clean washer cycle isn't just an empty wash; it's a meticulously programmed sequence to ensure comprehensive internal sanitation. Here’s a breakdown of what generally occurs:
1. High Water Volume Fill
Unlike regular cycles that conserve water, the clean washer cycle fills the drum with a significantly larger amount of water. This increased volume is crucial for reaching all internal surfaces, including areas above the normal water line where mold and mildew often thrive.
2. Introduction of Cleaning Agents
Once the drum is sufficiently filled, the specialized cleaning agent is introduced.
- affresh® Washer Cleaner: These tablets or packets are formulated to dissolve and break down odor-causing residues, detergent buildup, and hard water deposits.
- Liquid Chlorine Bleach: A cup or two of bleach (check your washer's manual for exact amounts) works as a powerful disinfectant, effectively killing bacteria, mold, and mildew while also brightening the inside of the tub.
3. Agitation and Soaking
The machine then engages in a series of intense agitations and soaking periods. This process allows the high-volume, cleaner-infused water to thoroughly circulate, scrub, and penetrate all internal parts, loosening and dissolving stubborn residues. The longer duration ensures maximum contact time for the cleaning solution.
4. Rinsing and Draining
After the cleaning and soaking phases, the washer performs multiple rinses with fresh water to flush away all the dissolved grime, residue, and cleaning agents. The dirty water is then completely drained, leaving the interior clean and disinfected.
5. Post-Cycle Action
Once the cycle is complete, it is crucial to unload the washer as soon as the cycle finishes. Leaving the door ajar helps to air out the interior and prevent new moisture-related odors from developing.
Why is the Clean Washer Cycle Important?
Regularly running a clean washer cycle offers several key benefits:
- Eliminates Odors: Prevents the buildup of mold, mildew, and bacteria that cause unpleasant smells in your washer and can transfer to your laundry.
- Improves Washing Performance: Removes detergent and fabric softener residues that can clog dispensers or reduce the effectiveness of future washes.
- Extends Appliance Lifespan: Regular maintenance helps prevent internal component deterioration caused by grime and mineral deposits.
- Ensures Cleaner Laundry: A clean washer means your clothes are washed in a truly hygienic environment, leading to fresher, cleaner results.
How to Run a Clean Washer Cycle
Maintaining your washing machine is straightforward with these steps:
- Empty the Washer: Ensure the washer drum is completely empty of clothes or any other items.
- Add Cleaning Agent:
- For affresh®: Place one tablet directly into the washer tub (not the dispenser).
- For Bleach: Pour liquid chlorine bleach into the bleach dispenser, or directly into the tub if your manual permits (usually 1-2 cups).
- Select the Cycle: Choose the "Clean Washer," "Tub Clean," or "Self Clean" cycle on your machine's control panel.
- Start the Cycle: Initiate the cycle and allow it to run to completion.
- Air Out: Once finished, wipe down the door gasket and leave the washer door ajar for a few hours to air dry the interior.
Recommended Frequency
The frequency of running a clean washer cycle depends on usage, water hardness, and the type of detergents you use.
| Factor | Recommended Frequency |
|---|---|
| Normal Use (1-3 loads/week) | Every 1-3 months |
| Heavy Use (4+ loads/week) | Every 3 weeks to 1 month |
| Hard Water | More frequently (e.g., monthly) |
| High-Efficiency (HE) Washers | Typically every 1-2 months, as they use less water and can accumulate residue more easily. |
| Noticeable Odors | Immediately, then adjust routine as needed |
Tips for Optimal Washer Hygiene
- Use HE Detergent: If you have an HE washer, always use HE-specific detergents, as they are low-sudsing and designed for less water.
- Don't Overuse Detergent: Too much detergent can lead to excessive residue buildup.
- Remove Wet Clothes Promptly: Don't leave damp laundry in the washer for extended periods.
- Wipe Down Gasket: Regularly wipe the rubber door gasket of front-loader washers to prevent mold growth.
- Leave Door Ajar: After each wash, leave the washer door slightly open to allow the interior to air dry.
By regularly performing the clean washer cycle, you ensure your appliance remains fresh, efficient, and ready to tackle your laundry needs effectively.
