You probably don’t think much about cleaning the machines that clean your clothes. And that’s completely normal. Most of us throw a load in, press a button, and walk away. But over time, your washer and dryer work hard and collect a surprising amount of gunk, lint, and residue. The good news is that keeping them fresh and efficient doesn’t require fancy tools or a service call. A little regular attention can prevent odors, improve performance, and even extend the life of your appliances. Let’s walk through some easy, homeowner-friendly ways to give your washer and dryer the care they deserve.

Start with the washing machine. If you’ve ever noticed a musty smell coming from your freshly washed clothes, that’s a sign your machine needs a deep clean. Front loaders are especially prone to this because moisture gets trapped around the rubber door gasket. Pull back that thick rubber seal and you might find a little pocket of grime or even a forgotten sock. Wipe it down with a cloth dipped in a solution of warm water and white vinegar. A small brush, like an old toothbrush, helps get into the crevices. Do this every month or so, and you’ll cut down on that mildew smell.

Next, tackle the detergent drawer. That little compartment often gets overlooked, but it can become a breeding ground for mold and soap scum. Pop it out of the machine—most pull straight forward or have a release tab—and soak it in hot, soapy water. Scrub away any crusty buildup, then rinse and dry it before sliding it back in. While the drawer is out, use a spray bottle filled with vinegar to clean the slot where it sits. You’ll be amazed at what comes out.

Now for the drum itself. Once a month, run an empty hot water cycle with two cups of white vinegar poured into the detergent compartment. The vinegar breaks down soap residue and mineral deposits. After that cycle finishes, run another empty hot cycle without any vinegar to rinse everything out. If your machine has a cleaning cycle setting, use that instead; it’s designed to superheat the water and give a thorough cleanse. Some manufacturers recommend using a commercial washer cleaner tablet, which works fine too, but vinegar is cheap and effective.

Don’t forget the filter. Many front loaders have a small door near the bottom front of the machine. Open it, and you’ll find a drain hose and a twist-out filter. Place a shallow pan or towels underneath because water will spill out. Unscrew the filter and pull out any lint, coins, hairpins, or other debris that has collected. Rinse the filter under the sink and screw it back in. A clogged filter can cause drainage issues and even error codes on your machine. Check it every three months, or more often if you wash heavily soiled items.

Switching to the dryer, the number one thing you can do is clean the lint filter after every single load. Yes, every load. That screen traps the fuzz that can reduce airflow and create a fire hazard. But the lint filter isn’t the only place lint hides. Once a year, pull the dryer away from the wall and disconnect the vent hose from the back of the machine. Use a vacuum hose or a long brush to clear out the ductwork leading to the outside vent. A blocked vent makes your dryer run longer, use more energy, and can cause overheating. If your clothes are taking forever to dry, the vent is likely the culprit.

The dryer’s interior can also get grimy. If you’ve ever melted a plastic button or had a crayon go through a load, you know the mess that leaves behind. To clean the drum, wipe it down with a cloth dampened with a mild detergent and water. For stubborn spots, use a nonabrasive cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water. And check the seal around the dryer door. Wipe away any lint buildup there too.

Another simple habit: empty the washer door after each use. Leave it slightly open between loads so air circulates and moisture evaporates. This alone can prevent those funky smells. Dryer doors should stay closed to keep dust out, but leave the washer door ajar.

Finally, think about the products you use. High-efficiency washers require HE detergent. Using regular detergent creates too many suds, which can lead to residue buildup and even mechanical problems. And don’t overdo it with fabric softener. It leaves a waxy layer inside your machine that attracts dirt and traps odors. If you want soft clothes, try wool dryer balls instead—they soften naturally and reduce static without chemicals.

Taking care of your washer and dryer doesn’t have to be a chore. Just add a few of these steps to your regular cleaning routine. Make it a weekend project once a season, or tie it to a calendar reminder. Your machines will thank you with fresh-smelling laundry, shorter drying times, and fewer repairs. And you’ll feel pretty good knowing you saved a service call and kept your home appliances running smoothly for years to come.