Clean your Samsung washing machine monthly to prevent mold, odors, and buildup

A Samsung washing machine needs regular cleaning to work properly and last longer. Detergent residue, fabric softener, dirt, and moisture build up inside the drum, rubber seal, and detergent dispenser—especially in front-load models. Running a cleaning cycle once a month, plus wiping down the rubber gasket and detergent drawer, stops mold and odors before they start. Most Samsung machines have a dedicated Self Clean or Tub Clean cycle that does the heavy lifting for you.

The process takes about an hour total and requires only a few household items: white vinegar or a commercial washing machine cleaner, a damp cloth, and a soft brush. You do not need to take the machine apart or call a technician. This guide walks you through the steps in the order that works best.

Key Takeaways

  • Run the Self Clean or Tub Clean cycle once a month with white vinegar or a commercial cleaner to remove buildup inside the drum.
  • Wipe the rubber gasket around the door after every few loads, because moisture trapped there grows mold quickly.
  • Empty and rinse the detergent dispenser drawer monthly to prevent clogs and odors.
  • Leave the door and detergent drawer open between loads so air can dry the inside of the machine.
  • If your machine has a drain filter at the bottom front, check it every three months for lint and debris.

Run the Self Clean cycle with vinegar or cleaner

Most Samsung front-load and top-load washers have a Self Clean or Tub Clean cycle built in. Check your machine's control panel or your user manual for the exact name—it may also be called "Tub Cleaning" or "Drum Clean." This cycle runs hot water and agitation without clothes inside to scrub the drum and internal parts.

Pour two cups of white vinegar directly into the empty drum, or use a commercial washing machine cleaner following the product instructions. Do not put vinegar in the detergent dispenser—it needs to go straight into the drum so it reaches all the surfaces. Close the door, select the Self Clean cycle, and press start. The cycle usually takes 30 to 50 minutes depending on your model. Let it run without stopping it.

When the cycle finishes, open the door and wipe down the inside of the drum with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue. Leave the door open for at least 30 minutes so moisture can evaporate. Run this cycle once a month, or more often if you notice odors or visible mold.

Clean the rubber gasket and door seal

The rubber gasket (the seal around the door opening) traps water, detergent, and lint. Mold and mildew grow there quickly, especially in front-load machines. Wipe it down every few loads—do not wait for a monthly cleaning cycle.

Pull the gasket gently away from the door frame to expose the fold where debris hides. Use a damp cloth or an old toothbrush to scrub along the entire seal, paying special attention to the bottom where water pools. You may find lint, hair, coins, or dark spots (mold). Wipe everything out and rinse the cloth, then wipe the gasket again with clean water to remove soap residue.

If you see black or pink mold that does not come off with a cloth, soak a cloth in white vinegar and hold it against the moldy spot for 10 minutes, then scrub gently. Dry the gasket with a clean cloth when you are done. This takes only a few minutes and prevents most odor problems.

Empty and rinse the detergent dispenser drawer

The detergent dispenser drawer (the compartment where you pour liquid or powder detergent) collects residue over time. Detergent hardens, clogs the drawer, and can cause odors or mold. Remove and clean it monthly.

Open the drawer by pressing the release button or pulling it straight out—check your manual if you are unsure how. Rinse it under warm running water and use an old toothbrush to scrub away any hardened detergent or buildup. Pay attention to the small channels and corners where liquid pools. If buildup is stubborn, soak the drawer in warm water with a little white vinegar for 15 minutes, then scrub again.

While the drawer is out, look inside the slot where it sits. Wipe that area with a damp cloth to remove any detergent or lint. Dry the drawer completely and slide it back in until it clicks. Leave the drawer slightly open between loads so air can dry it out.

Check and clean the drain filter

Many Samsung front-load washers have a small drain filter at the bottom front of the machine. This filter catches lint, coins, and debris before they clog the drain pump. Check it every three months and clean it as needed.

Locate the filter access panel at the bottom of the machine (usually behind a small door or cover). Open it carefully—there may be a small amount of water inside. Place a shallow pan or towel underneath to catch any spills. Turn the filter counterclockwise to unscrew it and pull it straight out.

Rinse the filter under warm running water and use a soft brush to remove lint and debris. If the filter is very clogged, soak it in warm water for a few minutes first. Screw it back in by hand until it is snug—do not overtighten. Close the access panel. If water leaks from the panel after you close it, the filter may not be seated correctly; open it again and reseat it.

Leave the door and drawers open between loads

The simplest way to prevent mold and odors is to let the machine dry out between uses. After each load, leave the door open for at least an hour so air can circulate inside the drum. Also leave the detergent dispenser drawer open slightly. This is especially important in humid climates or if you run multiple loads in a row.

If you forget and the machine smells musty, run the Self Clean cycle when ready. Moisture trapped inside is the main cause of odors in washing machines, so drying is your best defense.

What to do if odors or mold persist

If you have cleaned the gasket, run the Self Clean cycle, and emptied the detergent drawer but odors remain, the problem may be deeper inside the machine. Try running the Self Clean cycle two or three times in a row with vinegar, waiting a few minutes between cycles for the machine to cool slightly. This gives the vinegar more time to break down stubborn buildup.

If the smell is very strong or you see mold inside the drum that does not come off with a cloth, the machine may need professional service. Contact Samsung support or a local appliance repair technician. Do not ignore persistent odors—they usually mean moisture is trapped somewhere inside, and the problem will get worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bleach to clean my Samsung washing machine?

No. Bleach can damage the rubber gasket and internal parts of your machine. Use white vinegar or a commercial washing machine cleaner instead. Both are safe for all Samsung models and work just as well.

How often should I run the Self Clean cycle?

Once a month is standard for most households. If you use a lot of detergent, live in a humid climate, or notice odors, run it every two weeks. If you rarely use the machine or live in a dry climate, once every two months is fine.

What if my Samsung washing machine does not have a Self Clean cycle?

Older models may not have this feature. Instead, run a regular hot water cycle with two cups of white vinegar and no clothes. Select the longest, hottest cycle available. This achieves the same result, though it takes longer.

Is it safe to use commercial washing machine cleaners?

Yes, most commercial cleaners made for washing machines are safe. Follow the product instructions exactly—some go in the drum, others in the detergent dispenser. Affresh and similar brands are widely available and work well with Samsung machines.

Why does my washing machine smell even after cleaning?

Odors usually mean moisture is still trapped inside. Make sure you are leaving the door and detergent drawer open between loads. Also check the rubber gasket for mold you may have missed—pull it back and look in the fold. If the smell is very strong, run the Self Clean cycle again or contact Samsung support.