Say Goodbye to Dirty Laundry: How to Clean Inside Maytag Washing Machine Agitator

Washing machines are essential appliances in every household. However, over time, they can accumulate dirt, grime, and even mold, which can affect the cleanliness of your laundry and potentially damage the machine itself. One of the most overlooked areas for cleaning is the agitator, the central part of your Maytag washing machine that helps move the clothes around during the wash cycle.
This blog post will guide you through the process of cleaning your Maytag washing machine agitator, ensuring your machine remains efficient and your laundry sparkling clean.

Why Clean the Agitator?

The agitator is a prime target for dirt and grime accumulation. This happens because the agitator is constantly in contact with dirty clothes, and the water used in the wash cycle can leave behind mineral deposits and soap scum. Over time, these deposits can build up on the agitator, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
A dirty agitator can lead to several problems:

• Reduced cleaning efficiency: A buildup of grime can prevent the agitator from moving freely, affecting the washing action and reducing the effectiveness of your laundry detergent.
• Musty odors: Mold and mildew growth can cause unpleasant odors in your laundry and even damage your clothes.
• Machine damage: A dirty agitator can cause wear and tear on the washing machine’s internal components, potentially leading to costly repairs.

Gathering Your Cleaning Supplies

Before you start cleaning, gather the necessary supplies:

• White vinegar: A natural disinfectant and deodorizer that effectively removes grime and mineral deposits.
• Baking soda: A gentle abrasive that helps loosen stubborn stains and neutralize odors.
• Soft-bristled brush: For scrubbing away dirt and grime from the agitator.
• Old toothbrush: For reaching tight spaces and crevices.
• Rubber gloves: To protect your hands from harsh chemicals.
• Old towels: To absorb excess water and protect your floor.
• Optional: A commercial washing machine cleaner for a more powerful clean.

Disconnecting the Washing Machine

Before you begin cleaning, disconnect the washing machine from the power source. This is an important safety precaution to prevent electric shocks. Also, turn off the water supply to the machine to avoid any water leaks.

Removing the Agitator

The process for removing the agitator can vary slightly depending on your Maytag washing machine model. However, the general steps are as follows:
1. Locate the agitator cap: The agitator cap is usually located at the center of the agitator, and it might be a different color than the rest of the agitator.
2. Remove the cap: Some caps are simply pulled out, while others might require a tool like a flathead screwdriver to pry them off.
3. Remove the agitator: Once the cap is removed, you can usually lift the agitator straight up and out of the washing machine tub.

Cleaning the Agitator

Once you have removed the agitator, you can begin cleaning it:
1. Pre-soak: Fill a bucket or sink with warm water and add a cup of white vinegar. Submerge the agitator in the solution for at least 30 minutes to loosen dirt and grime.
2. Scrubbing: Use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the agitator thoroughly, focusing on any areas with heavy buildup.
3. Rinse: Rinse the agitator thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining dirt, vinegar, or baking soda.
4. Dry: Allow the agitator to air dry completely before reassembling it.

Cleaning the Washing Machine Tub

While you have the agitator out, take this opportunity to clean the washing machine tub as well.
1. Remove any remaining debris: Use a wet cloth to wipe down the inside of the tub, removing any lingering dirt or debris.
2. Clean with vinegar: Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the empty tub and run a hot water cycle. This will help disinfect the tub and remove any remaining soap scum or mineral deposits.
3. Optional: Baking soda: You can also add a cup of baking soda to the tub along with the vinegar for a deeper clean.

Reassembling the Agitator

Once the agitator and tub are clean and dry, you can reassemble the agitator.
1. Align the agitator: Carefully align the agitator with the hole in the washing machine tub.
2. Push down: Gently push down on the agitator until it snaps securely into place.
3. Replace the cap: Replace the agitator cap, ensuring it is tightly secured.

Time to Shine: Your Washing Machine is Ready!

After reassembling the agitator, reconnect the water supply and power to your washing machine. You can now run a hot water cycle with a cup of white vinegar to ensure all traces of dirt and grime are removed.
Final Touches: To maintain a clean washing machine and prevent future buildup, it’s recommended to:

• Run an empty cycle with vinegar: Every month, run an empty washing machine cycle with a cup of white vinegar to disinfect the tub and prevent mold growth.
• Clean the detergent dispenser: Regularly clean the detergent dispenser to prevent buildup and ensure proper detergent dispensing.
• Check for leaks: Regularly check for any leaks around the washing machine to prevent water damage.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q1: How often should I clean my washing machine agitator?
A: It’s recommended to clean your washing machine agitator every 3-6 months, depending on how frequently you use your washing machine and the type of laundry you wash.
Q2: Can I use bleach to clean my washing machine agitator?
A: While bleach can be effective in killing bacteria and mold, it can also damage the agitator and the washing machine tub. It’s best to avoid using bleach when cleaning your agitator.
Q3: What if I can’t remove the agitator?
A: Some Maytag washing machine models have a fixed agitator that can’t be removed. In these cases, you can still clean the agitator by using a long-handled brush to scrub the surface.
Q4: What if my washing machine smells bad after cleaning the agitator?
A: If your washing machine still smells bad after cleaning the agitator, there might be mold or mildew growth in other areas of the machine, such as the detergent dispenser or the washing machine tub. You can try cleaning these areas with a solution of white vinegar and water.
Q5: Is it safe to use a washing machine cleaner on my Maytag washing machine?
A: Yes, it is safe to use a washing machine cleaner on your Maytag washing machine, but be sure to follow the instructions on the product label. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage your machine.