Why and when to clean your ice maker
Your ice maker needs cleaning when ice tastes stale or smells off, when cubes come out cloudy or discolored, or when the machine stops producing ice altogether. Mineral buildup from your water supply, mold, and bacteria can all accumulate inside the lines and storage bin. Cleaning takes about an hour and should happen every six months if you have hard water, or once a year if your water is soft.
Most of the work is flushing the water lines with a cleaning solution, then running fresh water through until the smell is gone. You do not need to take the machine apart or call a technician for routine cleaning—the steps below work for built-in and countertop models alike.
Key Takeaways
- Turn off the ice maker at the wall outlet or the control panel before you start, and empty the storage bin completely.
- Use a commercial ice machine cleaner (like Affresh or a vinegar-and-water solution) to dissolve mineral deposits inside the water lines.
- Run the cleaning solution through a full cycle, then flush the lines with fresh water at least three times to remove all cleaner residue.
- Wash the storage bin, scoop, and any removable parts with warm soapy water and dry them thoroughly before reassembling.
- Discard the first batch of ice after cleaning, since it may contain traces of cleaner or loosened debris.
Gather your supplies and turn off the machine
You will need a commercial ice machine cleaner, warm water, a soft brush or cloth, a bucket, and a small cup or container to catch water. Commercial cleaners like Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner or Ice-O-Matic Clean are sold at most hardware stores and online; they dissolve mineral scale without damaging plastic or rubber seals. If you prefer a natural option, white vinegar mixed 1:1 with water works for light mineral buildup, though it is less effective on heavy scale.
Turn off the ice maker by unplugging it from the wall outlet or switching off the control panel. If your model has a water supply line connected to your home's plumbing, locate the shut-off valve (usually under the sink or behind the refrigerator) and turn it clockwise until it stops. Empty the storage bin completely and set it aside—you will clean it separately.
Run the cleaning solution through the system
Fill the water reservoir with the cleaning solution according to the product instructions. Most commercial cleaners require you to dilute them with water; vinegar solution should be mixed 1:1. Pour the solution into the reservoir until it reaches the fill line.
Plug the machine back in and turn it on. Run it through one complete cycle so the cleaning solution flows through all the water lines and the ice-making mechanism. You will see cloudy or discolored water and ice come out—this is normal and shows the cleaner is working. Do not use this ice; discard it.
Flush the lines with fresh water
Once the first cycle is complete, turn off the machine again and empty the reservoir. Refill it with fresh tap water and run another full cycle. Repeat this flushing process at least two more times—three flushes total. Each time, discard the ice that comes out. This removes all traces of the cleaning solution, which can affect the taste of your ice if left behind.
After the final flush, smell the ice and the water coming from the dispenser. If you still detect cleaner or vinegar, run one more cycle with fresh water. The goal is ice and water with no odor.
Clean the storage bin and removable parts
While the machine is flushing, wash the storage bin with warm soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge. Scrub the interior walls and bottom, where mold and bacteria can hide. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry completely with a lint-free cloth before putting it back in the machine.
If your model has a removable scoop, ice chute cover, or filter basket, wash those parts the same way. Dry everything completely—moisture left inside can encourage mold growth. Reassemble all parts and make sure they sit flush in their slots.
Reconnect water and run a test cycle
If you turned off the water supply valve, turn it back on by rotating it counterclockwise until it stops. Do not force it. Turn the ice maker back on and run one more cycle. The ice from this cycle should taste clean and smell neutral. If it still tastes off, run one more fresh-water cycle.
Once the ice tastes normal, your machine is clean and ready to use. Store the cleaning solution in a cool, dry place for your next cleaning in six months or a year, depending on your water hardness.
What to do if ice still smells or tastes bad
If cleaning does not solve the problem, the issue may be your water supply itself. If your home has a whole-house water filter, check whether it needs replacing—a clogged filter can cause odors. If you do not have a filter, consider installing a pitcher filter or faucet filter to improve water quality before it reaches the ice maker.
Mold inside the storage bin can also persist if the bin is not drying completely between uses. Make sure the bin is truly dry before reassembling, and leave the machine off for a few hours after cleaning so all interior surfaces dry fully. If the smell returns within a few weeks, the machine may have mold in a part you cannot reach, and a service technician should inspect it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bleach to clean my ice maker?
No. Bleach can damage plastic and rubber seals inside the machine and leave a toxic residue. Stick to commercial ice machine cleaners or vinegar solution. Both are safe for food-contact surfaces when rinsed thoroughly.
How often should I clean my ice maker?
Once a year is standard for most homes. If you have hard water (visible white mineral deposits on faucets or shower heads), clean every six months. If you notice ice tastes stale or the machine slows down, clean when ready regardless of schedule.
What if my ice maker is built into my refrigerator?
The cleaning steps are the same, but you may not have direct access to the water reservoir. Check your refrigerator's manual for the exact location of the fill line and any cleaning mode the model offers. Some newer refrigerators have a "clean" setting that automates part of the process.
Is it safe to use the ice right after cleaning?
No. Discard the first two batches of ice after cleaning, even if you flushed multiple times. This ensures any remaining cleaner residue or loosened debris is gone before you use the ice in drinks.
Can I clean my ice maker while it is still plugged in?
No. Always unplug the machine or turn it off at the control panel before you start. This prevents electrical shock and ensures the machine does not run while you are working on it.