How to clean the gasket on a front load washer

Front load washers offer a convenient and energy efficient way to keep up with laundry day. However, without proper maintenance, the washer door rubber seal, also known as a gasket or bellow, can accumulate detergent buildup, grime and even mold. 

Follow these step-by-step instructions for cleaning the gasket on a front load washer including everyday maintenance and deep cleaning tips. Discover features that can help prevent odors and mildew in a washer from forming in the first place. With proper maintenance, you can easily enjoy all the convenience and benefits of a front load washer.

Should I clean my front load washer rubber seal?

Regularly cleaning the gasket or seal on your front load washer is essential for maintaining its performance and keeping laundry smelling fresh. Here are some other reasons why cleaning your washer door rubber seal is so important:

Stopping mold and mildew growth

The gasket on a front load washer is prone to trapping moisture, which can create the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew if not cleaned and dried. These fungi are not only unsightly but can cause unpleasant odors. By regularly cleaning the washer gasket, you can prevent mold and mildew growth, helping to keep your washing machine looking and smelling clean.

Select washers from Whirlpool brand now feature Antimicrobial Protection on the rubber seal to help keep your washer fresh by preventing the growth of odor-causing bacteria and mold. Look for models featuring the FreshFlow^™ Vent System—the first fan-powered system with the FanFresh^® Option, Dry Drum Cycle, and Antimicrobial Gasket for a trio of freshness.

Fighting smells and odors

Over time, residues from fabric softener and detergent can accumulate on the gasket, leading to unpleasant smells or black gunk on the washing machine seal. Cleaning the washer gasket removes buildup, preventing odors from transferring onto your clothes. This helps ensure your laundry smells fresh and clean, just as it should.

Maintaining optimal performance

The gasket plays a crucial role in sealing the door of your front load washer. A damaged gasket due to buildup or trapped items can lead to leaks and reduced performance in front load washers. Regularly cleaning the gasket helps ensure that it remains in good condition, allowing your washer to operate efficiently and effectively.

Cleaning the rubber seal, or gasket, on your front load washer helps ensure a hygienic, fresh and high-performing laundry experience. Follow the cleaning instructions below to keep your front load washer in top shape and your family's laundry as clean and fresh as can be.

Step-by-step guide to cleaning your front load washer gasket

Select front load washers offer energy savings, space-saving stacking configurations and a gentle yet thorough clean for everything from soccer jerseys to work shirts. Keeping your front load washer's gasket clean is essential for helping maintain its performance and combating buildup. Follow these simple steps to ensure a thorough cleaning:

1. Gather the necessary supplies

Before you start, gather the supplies you'll need: 

• Rubber gloves

• Soft cloth or sponge

• All-purpose cleaner

• Bucket of warm water

• Liquid bleach (optional)

• Soft, dry towel or cloth

2. Clean the washer drum and gasket seal

Make sure the washer drum is completely empty. Gently pull back any folds or crevices in the washer gasket to check for foreign objects such as coins, lint or even the occasional sock.

3. Remove loose debris and grime

Use an all-purpose cleaner recommended for appliances and a sponge, cloth or nonabrasive plastic scrubbing pad to wipe away grime or detergent residue. Pay special attention to the folds and nooks of the gasket as these areas tend to collect more debris.

4. Remove mold, mildew or tough stains from washer door seal

If stains or mildew remain, mix a diluted bleach solution by combining 3/4 cup (177 mL) of liquid chlorine bleach and 1 gallon (3.8 L) of warm tap water in a bucket. While wearing gloves, soak a damp cloth or sponge in the solution. Next, wipe the seal area thoroughly to cover the entire surface. Let the solution sit for approximately 5 minutes.

IMPORTANT:

• Wear rubber gloves when cleaning with bleach.

• Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for proper use of bleach or other cleaners.

5. Scrub washer door seal gasket

Gently scrub all surfaces of the gasket with your sponge and bleach solution to remove visible signs of mold, mildew or stains. This step will help sanitize and deodorize the front load washer door seal. Wipe down the gasket with a soft cloth or sponge soaked in warm water to rinse.

6. Dry the washer gasket

Using a dry, soft cloth or towel, wipe down the seal area to remove remaining moisture. Leave the washer door open to allow it to continue air drying.

By following these simple steps, you can help keep your front load washer's rubber seal clean and free from odor-causing bacteria. Remember to consult your appliance's user manual for any specific cleaning instructions or recommendations from the manufacturer.

Tips for preventing buildup and mildew on a washer seal

You can easily help prevent the buildup of dirt, grime and mildew on your front load washer's gasket with a few simple steps and habits.

1. Wipe down the gasket after each use:

After each laundry cycle, take a few moments to wipe down the gasket with a dry cloth. Every few loads, wipe with a damp cloth first to help combat the buildup of soap scum, trapped grime or other residues.

2. Leave the washer door open to air dry:

After completing your laundry, leave the door of your front load washer open to allow for air circulation. This will help eliminate moisture to prevent mold and mildew on the gasket.

3. Use the proper detergent type and dosage:

Use a high-quality detergent that is designed for your type of washer and follow dosing recommendations. If you have an HE washer, make sure to only use HE detergent. Using the wrong kind of detergent or too much can cause excessive suds. This may contribute to residue buildup on the washer's gasket and cause unpleasant odors over time. 

4. Don't let wet laundry sit:

Remove wet laundry from the washer as soon as you're able. Trapped moisture is the enemy of a fresh-smelling washer so make sure to transfer clothes to the dryer sooner rather than later.

5. Clean your whole washer regularly:

Don't forget the rest of the machine. Running a Clean Washer cycle monthly can go a long way in fighting odors and buildup anywhere in your machine, including the gasket door seals. Learn more about cleaning a front load washer top to bottom. 

6. Run a dehumidifier:

If your laundry space is in a humid or damp environment, consider bringing in a dehumidifier. This can also help with air drying clothes in the space.

By incorporating these simple practices into your laundry routine, you can keep your front load washer gasket clean and help prevent the buildup of mold and other odor-causing residues.

How often should I clean the rubber seal on my front load washer?

The rubber seal, or gasket, on your front load washer should be cleaned regularly to help prevent mold, mildew and residue buildup. Quickly wiping down the gasket with a dry cloth after every cycle is a great way to keep up with maintenance. Deep cleaning the gasket with a diluted bleach solution should be done roughly once a month or every 30 cycles. However, if you notice any signs of mold, musty odor or visible buildup, it's a good idea to clean the washer gasket more frequently.

Select Whirlpool® Washers offer a Clean Washer Cycle that uses high water volumes and affresh® Washer Cleaner¹ or bleach to clean your washing machine’s interior.

Features to prevent odors and mildew in front load washers

Front load washers have come a long way since the first designs were introduced to the market. Innovative features on select models help you easily maintain a fresh and hygienic laundry experience. These features mean you can take advantage of all front load washers have to offer without the worry of added maintenance.

1. Post-wash tumbling:

If you can't transfer clean loads to the dryer right away, a washer that periodically tumbles after washing can help keep laundry fresh. As an added bonus, some washers incorporate a fan to further increase air flow. The 12-Hour FanFresh® Option on select Whirlpool® Washing Machines features a built-in fan that activates after the wash cycle is over, tumbling clothes for up to 12 hours so you can finish laundry when you're ready.

2. Built-in fans and venting systems:

Some front load washers are equipped with a built-in fan and ventilation system. This unique feature helps to circulate air within the empty washer, helping to prevent the growth of mold and mildew that can cause unpleasant odors. The Dry Drum Cycle on select Whirlpool® Washers uses a powerful fan to reduce excess moisture from the drum, rubber gasket and door. After removing laundry, simply select the cycle and let your washer drum dry with the door closed.

3. Antimicrobial gaskets:

Whirlpool brand now offers Antimicrobial Protection on select front load washers. Antimicrobial Protection on the rubber seal helps keep your washer fresh by preventing the growth of odor-causing bacteria and mold on the washer gasket.

4. Specialized clean washer cycles:

A dedicated Clean Washer cycle can help keep the interior of the machine free of mildew and other odor-causing residues. Run the Clean Washer with affresh® Cycle on select Whirlpool® Washing Machines every 30 washes to thoroughly clean the inside of your washer with an affresh® Washer Cleaner tablet.

5. Automatic detergent dispensers:

Using too much detergent can quickly lead to buildup and smells in your front load washer. Some machines have automatic dosing systems that ensure the right amount for every load. Load & Go™ Dispensers from Whirlpool brand hold detergent for 20-40 loads laundry². You can simply choose your cycle settings and let the machine accurately measure and dispense the right amount of detergent at the right time.

With these convenient features, select front load washers can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that your laundry is being taken care of with the utmost cleanliness and freshness. Say goodbye to unpleasant odors and mildew, and enjoy a hygienic laundry experience load after load.

Shop Whirlpool^® Front Load Washers

With energy- and space-efficient options, front load washers from Whirlpool brand offer gentle yet thorough cleaning power. Shop select models with odor and mildew-fighting features like the 12-Hour FanFresh^® Option. Experience a trio of freshness with the new FreshFlow^™ Vent System that includes the Dry Drum Cycle, FanFresh^® Option and Antimicrobial Protection. Compare front load washers from Whirlpool brand to find the right care for your laundry.

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