You should put vinegar in the fabric softener dispenser of your washing machine when using it as a laundry additive, especially in front-load washers. This allows the machine to dilute the vinegar properly so it is not too harsh on clothes
. For top-load washers, add about half a cup of vinegar during the rinse cycle by pausing the machine and pouring it in, or add it to the dispenser if available
. If you want to clean and deodorize the washing machine itself, add about one cup of vinegar directly into the drum and run a hot water cycle with no clothes inside. For extra cleaning power, you can also add baking soda to the drum along with the vinegar
. Avoid putting vinegar directly on clothes or mixing it with detergent as it can cause discoloration or reduce cleaning effectiveness
. In summary:
- For laundry (softening, deodorizing):
- Front-load: Put vinegar in fabric softener compartment
- Top-load: Add vinegar during rinse cycle or in fabric softener dispenser
- For cleaning the machine:
- Add about 1 cup vinegar directly to the drum, run a hot cycle empty
- Optionally add baking soda for enhanced cleaning
Use vinegar diluted and avoid excessive use to prevent damage to rubber and plastic parts of the machine
