Get updates delivered to you daily. Free and customizable.
Homes & Gardens
How to clean the agitator in a washing machine – laundry pros share their secrets
By Chiana Dickson,
6 days ago
A clean washing machine is essential for fresh laundry, and while we might run a hot vinegar cycle occasionally to freshen up the drum, we often overlook a crucial component that can make or break our laundry results – the agitator.
Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, and everyday grime can build up on the agitator, compromising its performance and leaving your clothes less clean. To truly clean your washing machine and keep it running efficiently, it's important to give the agitator the attention it deserves.
Here, professional cleaners have explained how to clean the agitator in a washing machine to ensure perfect laundry every time.
‘For starters, you’ll want to wipe it down. Routine cleaning can be as simple as wiping down the agitator with a washcloth and some soap and water or vinegar. This can help to remove the buildup of detergent and product in the machine and keep your clothes coming out clean and fresh.'
Great Value Distilled White Vinegar, 128 fl oz
2. Run a cleaning cycle
(Image credit: Miele)
‘Then, run a cleaning cycle,’ Kathy Cohoon, cleaning expert continues. ‘If your washer has a dedicated cleaning cycle, use it! The agitator can be cleaned along with the rest of the machine,’ she says.
‘If you do not have a washing machine cleaner, don’t sweat it. Alternatively, you can make your own DIY washing machine cleaner by adding one cup of chlorine bleach or vinegar to the dispenser before running the cycle.’
3. Don’t forget about the interior
(Image credit: Tatsiana Niamera via Alamy)
The worst sludge and mold often build up inside of the agitator itself. ‘If you can remove the cap, rinse with hot water and scrub with a soft bristle brush to remove any built-up product or mold,’ suggests Zachary Pozniak , third-generation dry cleaner and VP of operations at Jeeves New York.
‘If you cannot remove the cap, pour hot water on the opening on the agitator,’ he adds. ‘This should dissolve and rinse away any gunk in there. However, it is not recommended to put cleaning products in your agitator.'
FAQs
How often should you clean the agitator in a washing machine?
According to Ken Doty, COO and cleaning expert at The Maids , it is a good idea to clean your agitator every month or so. ‘This will help minimize the amount of detergent and grime buildup,’ he says. ‘Before cleaning, be sure to check your machine's manual for detailed cleaning instructions.’
After cleaning your agitator and washing machine, it is a good idea to always leave your washing machine door open between cycles . This will help to prevent future mold growth and prevent musty smells that can affect your laundry.
Get updates delivered to you daily. Free and customizable.
Welcome to NewsBreak, an open platform where diverse perspectives converge. Most of our content comes from established publications and journalists, as well as from our extensive network of tens of thousands of creators who contribute to our platform. We empower individuals to share insightful viewpoints through short posts and comments. It’s essential to note our commitment to transparency: our Terms of Use acknowledge that our services may not always be error-free, and our Community Standards emphasize our discretion in enforcing policies. We strive to foster a dynamic environment for free expression and robust discourse through safety guardrails of human and AI moderation. Join us in shaping the news narrative together.
Comments / 0