How to Clean Commercial Washing Machine Like a Pro

Why Bother Cleaning Commercial Washing Machines?

Let’s be real — commercial washing machines work harder than a barista during morning rush hour. They deal with piles of laundry daily, which means soap scum, detergent buildup, mildew, and funky odors are inevitable guests. Skipping their cleaning is like going to a fancy restaurant and ordering a salad with expired dressing—just no.

Proper cleaning prevents mold and mildew, extends machine lifespan, cuts down on stink, and ensures your customers (or business) get clean clothes every time. Commercial washers especially demand attention because of their high usage rates and hefty loads.

Get Ready: What You Need to Clean a Commercial Washer

  • White vinegar (1-2 cups)
  • Baking soda (1 cup)
  • Disinfectant wipes or spray (or more vinegar for natural cleaning)
  • Soft cloth or microfiber towels
  • Gloves (to protect your hands if using bleach or disinfectants)
  • Optional: Bleach (check your machine’s manual before using)

Pro-tip: Keep a spray bottle filled with vinegar handy for spot clean-ups between major cleanings. It’s like a spa treatment, but for your machine.

Step-By-Step Guide: Cleaning Your Commercial Washer

Step 1: Run a Hot Cycle with Vinegar

Pop 1–2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum. Set your machine to the longest, hottest wash cycle available. Vinegar works overtime breaking down soap scum, mineral deposits, and gunk lurking inside.

Why vinegar? It’s a natural disinfectant that tackles odors and grime without harsh chemicals. This step gets rid of the worst of the buildup.

Step 2: Add Baking Soda for a Deodorizing Second Round

Once the vinegar cycle is done, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda into the drum and run another long hot cycle. Baking soda neutralizes odors and removes any residual residue vinegar missed.

Trust this dynamic duo — vinegar and baking soda — for a deep, fresh clean that leaves no nook or cranny overlooked.

Step 3: Wipe Down the Drum, Seal, and Detergent Dispenser

After the cycles finish, grab a soft cloth or microfiber towel. Wipe around the door gasket and drum interior to remove loosened grime. Don’t ignore the detergent drawer — gunk loves hiding there, and buildup can clog the machine.

Take a disinfectant spray or vinegar solution and give all high-touch areas like buttons, handles, and the control panel a good wipe to keep everything hygienic.

Step 4: Air Dry With the Door Open

Mold and mildew thrive in damp, dark places — surprise, surprise. Leaving the machine door open lets air circulate, drying the interior and preventing fungal growth.

If your commercial setup has multiple machines, encourage staff or patrons to do the same between uses. A little fresh air goes a long way.

Extra Power Cleaning: Should You Use Bleach?

For heavy-duty sanitizing, some pros add a quart of bleach to a hot water cycle before the vinegar and baking soda treatments. But tread carefully: bleach can be harsh and might damage some machines or void warranties.

Always check your commercial washer’s manual or manufacturer’s website to verify bleach use is safe. If it is, add bleach, run a hot cycle, then proceed with vinegar and baking soda cycles to neutralize bleach residue and odors.

Routine Maintenance Tips for Commercial Washers

  • Clean water inlet filters regularly to avoid clogging and water flow issues.
  • Check lint filters and belts for wear and remove any trapped debris.
  • Spray vinegar on buttons, handles, and seals weekly for light cleaning and odor control.
  • Use the detergent manufacturer’s recommended amount to prevent excess residue buildup inside.
  • Keep a maintenance log to track cleaning schedules and any repairs.

These habits keep your washing machines humming smoothly and reduce repair headaches.

When Cleaning Goes Beyond Basics: Handling Algae and Mold

If you notice greenish algae or persistent mold inside the drum or around seals, step up your game. Use a specialty washing machine cleaner or stronger disinfectant sprays designed for commercial machines. Follow product instructions carefully to avoid damage.

You might find useful advice on dealing with algae buildup in dedicated guides like How to Clean Algae from Washing Machine.

Tips for Different Commercial Washer Types

Whether you’re rocking a front-load or top-load commercial machine, the cleaning rituals are similar but with slight nuances. Front-loaders especially benefit from vinegar cycles because they are prone to gasket mold.

For specific brand guides, you could peek at resources like How to Clean Admiral Washing Machine for tailored advice.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning: Save The Planet, Clean Smart

Using vinegar and baking soda keeps your commercial cleaning green and gentle, steering clear of toxic chemicals. It’s good for the environment and for your staff’s health—double win!

Plus, regular maintenance prevents emergency repairs and extends the machine’s lifespan, reducing waste and running costs. Everybody loves saving money and Mother Earth simultaneously.

Where to Grab Your Cleaning Supplies

No time to hunt for the right vinegar or special detergents? Snag your supplies hassle-free online:

Final Spin: Keep It Clean and Running Smoothly

Cleaning your commercial washing machine doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. With vinegar, baking soda, and a bit of elbow grease, you can maintain spotless machines that serve you faithfully day after day.

And remember, prevention is power. Regular upkeep saves money, hassles, and keeps your laundry smelling fresh and performing at its best. If you want to keep exploring cleaning tips for home or specific machines, check out handy guides like How to Clean Clothes Washing Machine with Vinegar for some inspiration.

Now get in there, wield that vinegar like a cleaning ninja, and spin your way to commercial laundry greatness!