What is a maintenance wash?
A maintenance wash is simply running your washing machine empty on the hottest cycle, usually with a cleaning agent added. Because everyday laundry is mostly done at low temperatures, grease, detergent residue, bacteria and mould (biofilm) gradually build up inside the drum, seal and pipes. A monthly hot empty wash flushes all of that out, keeping the machine fresh and odour-free.
Why you should run one every month
- Removes the biofilm that causes musty and eggy smells.
- Clears detergent and softener build-up before it marks your clothes.
- Reduces black mould in the drum and on the seal.
- Helps the machine drain and rinse properly.
- Extends the life of the machine by keeping internal parts clean.
Step-by-step: how to run a maintenance wash
- Empty the drum. Make sure there are no clothes inside.
- Add a cleaning agent. Choose one of:
- 250 ml white vinegar poured into the drum, or
- A dedicated washing machine cleaner or drum-clean tablet (follow the pack), or
- Two tablespoons of baking soda in the drum plus vinegar in the drawer.
- Select the hottest cycle. Use a 90°C cotton wash, or your machine’s dedicated “drum clean”/”tub clean” programme if it has one.
- Run the full cycle. Let it complete so the hot water circulates through the drum and pipes.
- Wipe down afterwards. Clean the door seal, wipe the drum dry, and remove and rinse the detergent drawer.
- Leave the door open to air out.
Vinegar vs a dedicated cleaner
| Option | Best for |
|---|---|
| White vinegar | Cheap, natural, good for general freshening and mild residue |
| Machine cleaner / tablets | Stronger build-up, mould and persistent odour |
| Descaler | Hard-water areas where limescale is the main issue |
How often and prevention
- Run a maintenance wash once a month — more often if you mostly wash cold.
- Between washes, leave the door and drawer ajar to dry.
- Use the correct detergent dose to slow build-up.
For the wider routine, see how often to clean your washing machine. A maintenance wash is the core of our drum and filter cleaning guide, and it’s the first fix for a smelly machine.
When to call a technician
A maintenance wash is purely DIY. But if smells or residue keep returning despite monthly hot washes, there may be trapped water or build-up deep in the sump or hoses that a regular cycle can’t reach — an appliance technician can strip and clean those parts.