How to Clean the Inside of the Rubber Lining on a Whirlpool Duet Washer

General Cleaning

• Whirlpool recommends that you clean the interior of the washer with a mild soap, such as dish detergent, rather than use an abrasive cleaner that can scratch the drum and get into crevices. Clean the washer’s entire interior, including the door’s rubber lining with the soap diluted in warm water. Wipe down the same areas with a damp cloth that contains no soap. Complete the process by wiping down a third time with a dry towel to remove any residual moisture.

Considerations for Cleaning the Lining

• It may be necessary to clean the lining with a kitchen sponge or brush to loosen debris that can get in the folds of the rubber lining, as an ordinary paper towel may not be sufficient to remove them. Foreign objects, like lint and soap scum, can get caught in the folds and form a sticky residue that may be difficult to remove unless you scrub the area thoroughly. Combine equal parts of white vinegar and water to rinse the rubber lining after it has been cleaned. The vinegar should eliminate any lingering germs and odors. Dry the lining with a dry towel before closing the washer's door.

Monthly Maintenance

• Run an empty wash cycle about once a month to clean and sanitize the inside of your Whirlpool Duet washing machine, including the rubber lining on the door. Put 1 cup of laundry detergent in the washer to clean it, and set the washer to run on “Sanitary” -- the highest hot water temperature setting possible. Add 1 cup of bleach to the washer to eliminate bacteria and kill mold. To eliminate unpleasant odors, add 1 cup of white vinegar or baking soda to the washing machine.

Preventative Lining Maintenance

• You can reduce the number of times you must fully clean your Whirlpool Duet washer’s rubber lining if you wipe down the lining with a dry cloth after each wash load. Make sure that you dry, both the outer and inner folds of the lining, where moisture and debris can become trapped. You can also leave the door of the washing machine open for about 30 minutes to let the lining dry. However, wiping dry the lining is the only way to ensure that no moisture or debris remains.