Maybe it seems crazy to clean a washing machine, but the dirt that disappears from your clothes, towels, and sheets has to go somewhere, which means grime can build up inside your washing machine over time. Without regular cleaning, the appliance might also harbor leftover detergent, hard-water deposits, and mold or mildew around the door or lid. This can leave residue on laundry or cause items to emerge from the wash with a funky smell. To ensure that your freshly washed clothes and linens are as clean as possible, follow these steps on how to clean a washing machine once a month. These instructions work for cleaning front-loading and top-loading washing machines, but there are a few special considerations for both types. How to Clean a Washing Machine If your washing machine has a self-clean function, choose that cycle and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to clean the inside of the …