How To Remove Algae In Washing Machine

Why Is There Algae in My Washing Machine?

Let’s be real: your washing machine isn’t just a clothes-cleaning hero—it’s also a tiny ecosystem if left to its own devices. Algae love moisture, warmth, and leftover detergent residue, and your machine ticks all those boxes perfectly. This unwanted green fuzz doesn’t just look gross. It can cause musty odors, stain your laundry, and even compromise your machine’s efficiency. You don’t want algae throwing a party inside your washer, trust me.

So, how do you evict these unwelcome guests without calling in the plumbers—or worse, buying a new machine?

Safety First: Prep Like a Pro Before Tackling Algae

Before you get elbow-deep in scrubbing, please unplug your washing machine. We’re cleaning, not auditioning for an Electric Shock Stunt Show.

Also, empty out all your laundry and any random coins, socks, or rogue hair ties from the drum. We want to target algae, not your missing sock crisis.

Step-by-Step Method to Remove Algae From Washing Machines

1. Run a Scorching Hot Water Cycle

Set your machine to the hottest possible water temperature or activate its “clean tub” cycle if it has one. This initial heat blast loosens up algae clumps and other residues hanging out inside.

2. Use White Vinegar Magic

Add white vinegar to the detergent dispenser or directly into the drum—about 2 cups for front-load machines and 1 quart for top-loads. Vinegar is like a ninja for organic grime, breaking it down and killing algae bacteria in the process. Hit start and let the vinegar work its charm during the rinse.

3. Repeat Another Hot Cycle for a Rinse

Run a second hot water cycle without any additives. This flushes out loosened algae and leftover vinegar, ensuring your washer gets squeaky clean.

4. Wipe Down Visible Algae Deposits

Algae loves to hide in plain sight—especially around the door seal (the rubber gasket), detergent dispensers, and inside the drum edges. Grab a cloth soaked in a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or some vinegar. Gently scrub the visible greenish stuff away. For stubborn spots, a soft brush can be your best friend. Just don’t go all Hulk-mode and damage the seals.

5. Clean Detergent Drawers and Seals Thoroughly

Take out the detergent dispenser trays if your machine allows it. Soak them in the same bleach or vinegar solution, scrub off any algae buildup, and rinse well. Don’t forget to wipe the door gasket carefully; that’s algae central.

6. Inspect and Clean the Drain Filter

Found algae? There’s a good chance it’s also lurking in the drain filter. Open your machine’s drain trap, remove debris, algae, or lint, then rinse the filter under warm water. This step is often overlooked but crucial for complete eviction.

7. Dry Out Your Washing Machine

Leave the door and detergent drawer open after cleaning. This prevents the damp, cozy environment algae adore. Air circulation is your secret weapon against future green takeovers.

Handling Heavy Algae Invaders: When Things Get Serious

Sometimes algae decide to double down and become stubborn pests. In that case, consider:

Citric Acid and Oxygen Bleach Cycle: Using natural citric acid combined with oxygenated bleach (think off-brand OxiClean) can whip the inside of your washer into shape. Run a cleaning cycle adding these to disrupt algae biofilms and other organic residues.
Antiseptic Soak: Fill your washer drum with water and a disinfectant like Dettol. Let it soak overnight to wipe the floor with persistent algae source.
Pool Shock Treatment (Extreme Measure): Some swear by diluted calcium hypochlorite (pool shock) to annihilate algae and mold, but this is strong stuff. Use with care, follow with intensive rinsing, and avoid frequent use to prevent damage.

Pro tip: Never mix bleach with vinegar—it creates nasty fumes. Safety goggles and gloves are a must for any chemical method.

Preventing Algae: The Secret Sauce to Keeping Your Washer Fresh

Once you’ve evicted algae, keep that sucker algae-free with these savvy habits:

Air It Out: Leave your washing machine door and detergent drawer open when not in use to let moisture escape.
Monthly Wipe-Downs: Get into the habit of wiping door seals and detergent trays monthly to zap any early biofilm forming.
Filter TLC: Check and clean your drain filter every few months because these critters love hiding spots.
Less Detergent, More Clean: Overusing detergent leaves soap scum that algae adore. Use recommended amounts.
Water Softening: Hard water’s mineral deposits trap moisture and grime, encouraging algae. Use water softeners if you have hard water to reduce this risk.

Extra Cheatsheets & Resources

If you ever need to get under the hood of your machine to clean something tricky, you might find useful how-to guides for removing agitators in different washing machines, like Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore, and GE, on our site. Also, check out our tips on reducing limescale to enhance machine longevity and efficiency.

For instance, you can peek at How to Remove Agitator from Whirlpool Washing Machine or How to Reduce Limescale in Washing Machine to keep your washer in shipshape condition.

Best Tools and Products for Algae Removal

Not all cleaning agents are created equal. Here are some handy picks you can get easily online:

Using purpose-made washers’ cleaning tablets and solutions can simplify your battle with grime and algae, saving time and elbow grease.

Wrapping Up: Let the Green Bugs Know They’re Moving Out

Who knew your washing machine could so easily turn into an algae jungle? The good news: a few smart moves with hot water, vinegar, and a little elbow grease can restore it to pristine condition. For heavy infestations, don’t hesitate to bring in the big guns like oxygen bleach or disinfectants. And the ultimate power move? Keep your machine dry and clean regularly to starve algae of their favorite habitat.

Keep your washing machine fresh and your laundry smelling like you actually have it all together — because you do, after reading this.