How to Clean a Samsung Washer: 3 Essential Steps for Optimal Performance

If you’re wondering how to clean a Samsung washer, this article is for you. Proper maintenance of your Samsung washing machine can not only extend its life but also ensure that it runs smoothly and efficiently.

To help you maintain your appliance in top shape, we have prepared a simple, step-by-step guide that will walk you through the process of how to clean a Samsung washer.

1. First, you’ll learn how to clean the exterior surfaces using the right cleaning solutions and techniques.
2. Next, you’ll find instructions on how to clean the interior, including running a Self Clean or Pure Cycle and cleaning the detergent drawer.
3. Finally, we’ll offer some tips on removing any existing odors and maintaining your washer’s performance for years to come.

The process for how to clean your Samsung washing machine is easy and doesn’t require any specialized tools, so let’s get started on taking care of your Samsung washer together.

Why Clean a Samsung Washer? 3 Important Reasons

1. Maintenance and Efficiency

Regularly cleaning your Samsung washer ensures its optimal performance and maintains its efficiency. Over time, residue buildup may occur, negatively affecting the machine’s ability to wash your clothes properly.

By learning how to clean a Samsung washer, you can prevent such issues and extend the life of your appliance.

Additionally, a clean washer saves energy and water, which ultimately lowers your utility bills. Promoting an environment-friendly cleaning routine benefits both the machine and the environment.

2. Preventing Mold and Mildew

Washing machines can easily become breeding grounds for mold and mildew. Neglected washers, especially front-load models, can develop bad odors and even pose potential health risks. To prevent this, you need to ensure your washer is clean and well-maintained.

Regular cleaning, involving wiping down the door seal and running the Self Clean or Pure Cycle, reduces the likelihood of mold and mildew buildup. As a result, your clothes will smell fresher, and you will maintain a healthier home environment.

3. Preserving Your Samsung Washer Warranty

Taking proper care of your Samsung washer also helps preserve its warranty. Typically, appliance manufacturers require that you follow specific maintenance procedures to keep the warranty valid. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your washer remains eligible for covered repairs in case of any issues.

In summary, it is essential to learn how to clean a Samsung washer, both for preserving its warranty and maintaining its efficiency. Ensuring a mold and mildew-free environment not only prolongs the life of your appliance but also maintains your health and well-being.

Frequency and Timing of Cleaning a Samsung Washer

When it comes to how to clean a Samsung washer, establishing a routine maintenance schedule is essential for keeping your washer running efficiently and preventing mold and mildew buildup. It’s recommended that you perform certain tasks on a monthly basis, while others can be done as needed.

Here’s a handy monthly task list you can follow:

* Monthly tasks:
  * Run a Self-Clean cycle.
  * Use bleach in the detergent drawer if bad smells persist.
  * Run a second Self-Clean cycle if soap suds buildup occurs.

It’s a good idea to begin by conducting a monthly Self-Clean cycle, as this helps sanitize the interior of your washer and eliminates residue from detergent and fabric softener. To do this, simply select the Self-Clean option and press Start.

Focus on Cleaning Important Parts

In addition to the monthly Self-Clean cycle, it’s important to clean certain parts of your Samsung washer regularly, including the detergent drawer, pump filter, and auto dispenser detergent drawer (for model WF50A8800AV). This can be done as part of your routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance and to prevent unpleasant odors.

When you notice the Self-Clean LED is on, begin a Self-Clean cycle. This will help maintain your Samsung washer and provide you with a clean, fresh-smelling washing machine.

Remember, regularly cleaning and maintaining your washer not only keeps it running efficiently, but also extends its lifespan. By following these simple steps for how to clean a Samsung washer, you can ensure a trouble-free laundry experience for years to come.

Pre-Cleaning Preparation

Before you begin learning how to clean a Samsung washer, it’s important to prepare a few things beforehand. In this section, we will discuss the supplies you need to gather and the necessary steps to take before starting the cleaning process.

Gather Supplies

To clean your Samsung washing machine thoroughly, gather the following supplies:

• Washing machine cleaner or white distilled vinegar
• Baking soda
• Toothbrush
• Microfiber cloth
• Warm water (if needed)

Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning products and methods.

Turn Off and Unplug

Safety is crucial when working with appliances, so before starting to clean your Samsung washing machine, ensure you follow these steps:

1. Turn off the washing machine by pressing the power button.
2. Wait for the machine to come to a complete stop.
3. Unplug the washer from the electrical outlet to avoid any potential hazards during the cleaning process.

Once you have your supplies and proper safety measures in place, you are now well-prepared to begin the process of cleaning your Samsung washer.

Cleaning the Samsung Washer Interior

Cleaning the Drum

To clean the drum of your Samsung washer, you can run a Self Clean or Pure Cycle. This helps in removing any detergent residue, mildew, and odor from the interior of your washing machine.

If your model doesn’t have these cycles, you can use washing machine cleaner and hot water. Add the cleaner to the detergent drawer and run the hottest wash cycle the machine allows.

Remember to keep the door open after use to allow any moisture to evaporate and prevent damp odors.

Cleaning the Door Seal

Cleaning the door seal is essential to eliminate any dirt, lint, and mildew buildup. To do so, open the washer door and gently pull back the seal to expose its interior. Remove any visible debris, such as hair or small objects.

If you notice mildew or mold, saturate the affected areas with warm, soapy water or a mildew cleaner of your choice. Wipe the seal thoroughly and allow it to air dry before closing the washer door.

Cleaning the Detergent Drawer

To clean the detergent drawer of your Samsung washer, follow these steps:

1. Open the detergent drawer and gently pull it out until it stops. Be careful not to pull too hard, as it may damage the door and its components.
2. Remove the detergent dispensers by lifting them out of their holders.
3. Clean the dispensers and drawer using warm water and a soft brush to get rid of any detergent or softener residue. Let them air dry before placing them back into the drawer.

Always use HE (high efficiency) detergent for your washing machine to prevent soap suds buildup and ensure a thorough clean.

Cleaning the Pump Filter

Cleaning your Samsung washer’s pump filter is crucial, as it prevents lint and debris from clogging your washer’s drainage system. The filter is typically located on the front of the machine. You can find the exact location and detailed instructions on how to clean it in this article on Samsung top-load washer filter location.

In summary, knowing how to clean a Samsung washer’s interior is an essential aspect of maintaining your appliance. Regular cleaning of the drum, door seal, detergent drawer, and pump filter can help ensure your washer performs efficiently and your clothes come out clean and fresh.

Cleaning the Washer Exterior

Cleaning the Control Panel

To clean the control panel of your Samsung washer, be sure to switch off the appliance and unplug it before starting the process. Use a soft, lint-free cloth lightly dampened with a mixture of 50% white vinegar and 50% warm water or an appliance cleaner like Cerama Bryte.

Gently wipe the control panel, avoiding any excess dampness that could seep into the electronic components.

Cleaning the Cabinet and Body

The next step in learning how to clean a Samsung washer is focusing on the cabinet and body. These areas can often accumulate dust, debris, and soap scum.

To clean these surfaces, you can use the same cleaning solution mentioned earlier (50% white vinegar and 50% warm water) or an all-purpose cleaner compatible with your washer’s material.

1. Wipe down the entire exterior, including the door and surrounding areas, with a microfiber cloth.
2. To remove stubborn stains or grime, dampen the cloth with the cleaning solution and gently scrub in a circular motion. This helps to lift the dirt, making it easier to remove.
3. If necessary, use a soft brush to clean any vents or crevices where dust and debris may have gathered. Be gentle to avoid damaging the surfaces.
4. After cleaning, make sure to dry the exterior thoroughly with another clean cloth to prevent streaks or water marks.

Remember to always handle your Samsung washer with care, avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that may damage the appliance. By maintaining cleanliness, you can extend the life of your washer and keep it looking and performing its best.

Running the Cleaning Cycles

Self Clean or Self Clean+

To maintain your Samsung washer and keep it fresh, it is essential to run a Self Clean or Self Clean+ cycle periodically. This feature is available in most Samsung front load and top load models.

Here are the instructions on how to clean a Samsung washer using the Self Clean or Self Clean+ cycle:

1. Make sure the washer is empty and close the door.
2. Press the “Power” button to turn on the washing machine.
3. Turn the Cycle Selector to “Self Clean” or “Self Clean+”, depending on your model.
4. Press and hold the “Start/Pause” button to begin the cycle.

The Self Clean or Self Clean+ cycle takes about 1-2 hours to complete. During this time, it will eliminate dirt, bacteria, and buildup inside your Samsung washing machine.

Hot Water Cycle

If your Samsung washer does not have a Self Clean or Self Clean+ feature, you can still give it a thorough cleaning by running a hot water cycle. Follow these steps:

1. Set your washer to the highest temperature setting.
2. Select the “Heavy” or “Sanitize” cycle, if available. Otherwise, choose the longest cycle available.
3. Pour two cups of white vinegar into the detergent drawer.
4. Run the cycle with an empty washer.

Running a hot water cycle using vinegar will break down residue inside your washer and help eliminate any odors. Remember to also periodically check and clean the drain hose and other important components, such as the detergent drawer.

Additional Samsung Washing Machine Cleaning Tips

When trying to figure out how to clean a Samsung washer, it’s important to consider alternative cleaning solutions, preventing odors and buildup, and when to call a professional. In this section, we’ll explore each of these topics.

Alternative Cleaning Solutions

If you are out of specialized washing machine cleaners or simply prefer using natural products, here are some alternative cleaning solutions for your Samsung washing machine:

• Distilled white vinegar: Fill the detergent dispenser with vinegar and run a hot wash cycle without any clothes.
• Baking soda: Add one cup of baking soda to the washer drum and run a hot wash cycle. This helps to break down grime and odor-causing bacteria.

Preventing Odors and Buildup

Proper maintenance can help prevent smells and residue from taking over your washing machine. To maintain your Samsung front-load washer, follow these tips:

• Remove clothes promptly after the wash cycle is completed. Leaving wet clothes in the washer creates a breeding ground for bacteria.
• Keep the washer door and detergent drawer open to let the machine air-dry between uses.
• Use the recommended amount of detergent and fabric softener according to the owner’s manual.
• Regularly clean the washer by running a Self Clean or Pure Cycle, at least once a month, to prevent buildup.

When to Call a Professional

While regular cleaning and maintenance can keep your Samsung washer in good condition, there are times when getting professional help is necessary. If you notice any of the following, consider calling a professional:

• Visible mold or persistent unpleasant smells even after deep cleaning
• Issues with the drainage system, such as water not draining properly
• Broken controls or damage to the exterior of the washer
• Unusual noises or vibrations during operation

Carefully following these tips on how to clean a Samsung washer will not only keep your machine in tip-top shape but also ensure that your laundry stays fresh and clean.

Final Thoughts on How to Clean a Samsung Washer

Now that you know how to clean a Samsung washer, it’s important to maintain a routine cleaning schedule to keep your machine running efficiently. Cleaning your washer regularly will not only prevent mold and mildew buildup, but will also prolong the lifespan of your appliance.

When it comes to how to clean a Samsung washer, remember to:

• Run a Self Clean or Pure Cycle to clean the interior
• Clean the washer’s surface with a microfiber cloth
• Wipe the tub to remove excess detergent or bleach
• Clean the detergent drawer and washer pump filter

In addition to these key steps, consider the following tips:

• Use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to remove hard water buildup
• Always keep the washer door slightly open between cycles to let the tub air out and prevent odors

By following these guidelines on how to clean a Samsung washer, you’ll ensure that your appliance remains in optimal condition, ultimately providing you with a cleaner and fresher laundry experience.

Ken Lyons
Ken Lyons is one of the founding members of Cleaner Digs. He is also the senior editor and contributing author. Ken has owned and operated two cleaning companies in the past: one commercial and one that serviced residential customers. He writes for Clean Digs to share his professional expertise on cleaning and organization. He's been a fastidious cleaning nut and writing about it for more than a decade.