How do I self clean my Whirlpool front load washer?

Keeping your Whirlpool front load washer clean is important for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Over time, residue from dirt, grime, soap scum, and bacteria can build up inside the washer, leading to foul odors, unsanitary conditions, and even mechanical issues. Fortunately, many Whirlpool front load washers have a built-in self-clean cycle that can be run periodically to thoroughly clean the interior. Here is a guide on how to self clean a Whirlpool front load washer.

Should You Self-Clean Your Whirlpool Front Load Washer?

Running the self-clean cycle on your Whirlpool front load washer every few months is highly recommended by appliance experts and the manufacturer. The main reasons you should perform periodic self-cleaning include:

• Removes residue buildup – Over time, dirt, lint, soap scum, mold and mildew can accumulate inside the washer drum and components. Self-cleaning helps dissolve and wash away this residue.
• Sanitizes interior – The high heat of the self-clean cycle kills bacteria and germs that can cause odors and produce biofilms.
• Extends washer life – Regular self-cleaning helps keep all mechanical parts, seals and hoses free of harmful buildup that can degrade performance.
• Eliminates odors – The self-clean cycle washes away any mildew, mold and bacteria that cause foul odors in the washer.
• Improves performance – Removing residue ensures your washer can function optimally during wash cycles.

If you notice any foul odors coming from your washer, leaks around the door seal, or issues with cleaning performance, it’s definitely time to run a self-clean cycle.

How Often Should You Self-Clean Your Whirlpool Washer?

Whirlpool recommends running the self-clean cycle once every 1-3 months to maintain your washer’s freshness and performance. However, frequency depends on factors like:

• Washer usage – If you do multiple loads per week, clean every 1-2 months. For lighter use, every 2-3 months.
• Hardness of water – Hard water causes more lime and mineral buildup requiring more frequent cleaning.
• Products washed – Oils, dyes and chemicals in products can build up faster.
• Soap used – Residue from some detergents is worse than others.

Also run a cleaning cycle after washing anything really dirty or anytime you notice odors developing. Record the date each time you self-clean so you stay on schedule.

How to Use the Self-Clean Cycle

The self-clean cycle on Whirlpool front load washers uses higher water temperatures and an extended wash time to thoroughly clean the interior. To use it:

1. Remove any clothing or items from the washer drum. The cycle works best on an empty wash drum.
2. Open the dispenser drawer and add an all-purpose cleaning agent or washing machine cleaner tablet. This helps boost cleaning performance.
3. Do not add any detergent or other laundry products.
4. Close the dispenser drawer and washer door.
5. Select the self-clean cycle on your washer’s control panel. The cycle may be called “Clean Washer”, “Tub Clean” or other similar names, depending on the model.
6. Press start. The cycle will run for approximately 1-2 hours.
7. Once complete, leave the door open slightly to allow the washer interior to fully dry out.

That’s all there is to it! Running the self-clean cycle regularly will help keep your Whirlpool front load washer fresh and extend its lifespan.

What to Expect During the Self-Clean Cycle

Here’s what to expect when you run the self-clean cycle on your Whirlpool washer:

• Longer duration – The self-clean runs longer, around 1-2 hours, to allow thorough washing of the drum interior.
• High heat – Water temperatures reach well above what is used for laundry, up to 150°F, to sanitize and dissolve buildup.
• Some noise – You may hear sounds of spraying, scrubbing and knocking as the washer works to scrub itself clean.
• Door locked – For safety due to the high heat, the door will lock once the cycle starts.

You’ll know the cycle is complete when the washer shuts off and the door unlocks. Avoid trying to open the door before it unlocks at the end.

Tips for Getting the Best Results

Follow these tips and recommendations for getting the most effective self-clean of your Whirlpool washer:

• Leave drum empty – Don’t load any laundry items, the drum should be entirely empty.
• Use machine cleaner – Use an all-purpose washer cleaning agent or tablet in the dispenser to boost results.
• Wipe seals – Wipe the door seal and gasket with a towel and all-purpose cleaner before and after cleaning.
• Leave door open – Once done, prop the door open slightly until the interior is completely dry.
• Clean dispensers – Remove and clean detergent and softener dispensers every few months.
• Repeat often – Every 1-3 months is ideal for maintenance cleaning.

What to Avoid When Self-Cleaning

There are a few things to avoid when running the self-clean cycle on your Whirlpool washer:

• No laundry – Do not load any clothes, towels or other items during the self-clean cycle.
• No bleach – Do not add bleach, it is not necessary and can damage your washer over time.
• No detergent – Laundry detergent is also not required and not effective for interior washing.
• No excessive force – Let the washer clean itself, do not scrub the drum during the cycle.
• No interruptions – Don’t pause or prematurely end the cleaning cycle.

Common Self-Cleaning Questions

Is the self-clean cycle safe for my washer?

Yes, the self-clean cycle is designed by Whirlpool specifically for periodic cleaning of the washer interior. It uses higher than normal, but safe, temperatures and an extended wash time to thoroughly clean and sanitize all components.

Can I run it with laundry inside?

No, you should not run the self-clean cycle with any laundry items inside. The high heat levels and caustic environment needed to clean are too harsh for fabrics.

How should I prepare the washer before self-cleaning?

Start by removing any laundry, rinsing dirt and debris from the drum, and wiping the door gasket. For best results, leave the drum completely empty before starting the self-clean cycle.

Does the whole washer get cleaned?

The self-clean cycle washes and sanitizes the drum, drum supports, wash plate, features like temperature sensors and dispenser housing. The exterior cabinet does not get cleaned.

What if I see an error code during self-clean?

If your washer shows an error code mid-cycle, cancel the cycle and restart it. If errors persist, you may need to contact Whirlpool support for service.

Maintenance Between Self-Cleans

To optimize cleaning effectiveness and washing performance between self-clean cycles, be sure to:

• Leave door open – Prop door open between loads so interior can dry.
• Wipe seals – Frequently wipe door seal and gasket with towel or cleaning wipe.
• Clean filters – Regularly check and clean lint trap filters.
• Dry exhaust vent – Check that the exterior vent exhaust hose is kink free.
• Vinegar wash – Occasionally run a hot vinegar only wash to deodorize.

Periodically wiping the exterior cabinet, control panel and detergent dispensers will also help keep your washer looking its best.

When to Call a Repair Professional

While the normal self-clean cycle should take care of most buildup issues, you may need to schedule service if you experience:

• Persistent foul odors
• Standing water or leaks from the door
• Excessive vibration and noise
• Error codes
• Little or no suds when washing

A technician can troubleshoot issues, check for clogs and mechanical problems, and sanitize the washer using special professional grade cleaning solutions if needed.

Conclusion

Keeping your Whirlpool front load washer clean with regular self-clean cycles is crucial for longevity, sanitization, optimal performance and the elimination of odors. Run the dedicated self-clean cycle once every 1-3 months along with proper preventive maintenance between cycles. Following the guidelines above will help ensure your Whirlpool washer stays fresh and provides reliable operation for many years.