Top Load Washers with Self-Cleaning Cycles
Top Load Washers with Self-Cleaning Cycles
If you’re anything like me, you hate when your washer starts to smell funky.
That’s why top load washers with self-cleaning cycles are a total game changer.
In this post, I’ll break down the best models, why self-cleaning matters, and what to expect — all in real-world, honest language.
What is a Self-Cleaning Cycle and Why You Actually Need It?
A self-cleaning cycle is designed to deep clean the inside of your washer’s drum, removing detergent residue, dirt, bacteria, and even mold.
Modern machines like Samsung and Whirlpool use a combo of soaking, spinning, and high-speed rinses to fully clean the drum — without you scrubbing anything by hand.
I recommend running a self-clean cycle once a month, or every 20-30 loads, to keep your washer smelling fresh and working like new.
Table of Contents
Top Picks: Best Top Load Washers with Self-Cleaning Cycles
1. Samsung WA45T3200AW 4.5 cu. ft. Top Load Washer
Why I Recommend It:
- Self Clean Technology: Removes dirt, bacteria, and odor automatically.
- Vibration Reduction Technology: Makes it super quiet during cycles.
- Self-Clean Reminder: Alerts you every 20 loads to run the cleaning cycle.
2. GE GTW720BSNWS 4.8 cu. ft. Top Load Washer
Why I Recommend It:
- Basket Clean Cycle: Deep cleans the tub without needing harsh chemicals.
- Sanitize with Oxi Cycle: Kills bacteria and allergens too.
- Large 4.8 cu. ft. capacity: Great for families.
3. Whirlpool WTW5000DW 4.3 cu. ft. Top Load Washer
Why I Recommend It:
- Clean Washer with Affresh Cycle: Designed to clean the drum thoroughly.
- Quick Wash Option: Great for lightly soiled clothes.
- Automatic Load Sensing: Saves water by adjusting to load size.
Comparison Table: Best Self-Cleaning Top Load Washers
| Model | Capacity | Self-Clean Feature | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung WA45T3200AW | 4.5 cu. ft. | Self Clean Cycle | Best Overall Choice | View on Amazon |
| GE GTW720BSNWS | 4.8 cu. ft. | Basket Clean Cycle | Best for Sanitization | View on Amazon |
| Whirlpool WTW5000DW | 4.3 cu. ft. | Clean Washer Cycle | Best for Smaller Homes | View on Amazon |
Why You Should Care About Self-Cleaning Cycles
If you’ve ever opened your washer and been hit with a nasty smell — you know.
Without a self-clean cycle, detergent residue, dirt, and bacteria build up inside the drum and hoses.
Over time, it makes your clothes smell worse, not better — and even damages your washer.
A good self-cleaning cycle saves you expensive repairs and keeps your laundry truly clean.
How Self-Cleaning Works
Self-cleaning cycles typically soak the drum in hot water, then agitate it at high speeds to break loose dirt and grime.
Some models (like Samsung) even add an extra rinse to flush everything out — no chemicals needed.
How Often Should You Use the Self-Clean Cycle?
Personally, I run it once every 30 loads or about once a month.
If you have pets, kids, or do super dirty loads (gym clothes, muddy towels), you might want to do it even more often.
Can You Add Cleaner to the Self-Clean Cycle?
Yes!
I personally toss in an Affresh tablet (or you can use a little bleach if your washer allows it) when I run my self-clean cycle.
It boosts the cleaning power and keeps everything smelling fresh.
Signs Your Washer Needs a Self-Clean
If you notice any of these, it’s time:
- A sour or musty smell
- Clothes come out smelling funky even after washing
- Visible residue inside the drum
Trust me — doing a quick self-clean can fix all of this fast.
Does Self-Cleaning Save Energy?
Yes, over time it does.
A clean washer works more efficiently, uses less water, and finishes cycles faster.
I noticed my normal loads take less time after I regularly started using the self-clean cycle.
Best Detergents to Use with Self-Clean Washers
Always use HE (High-Efficiency) detergents in modern washers.
I use a liquid HE detergent and avoid powder detergents, which tend to build up faster inside the machine.
What Happens if You Never Use Self-Clean?
Eventually, the inside of your washer starts growing mold, mildew, and bacteria.
Not only does your machine stink, but your clothes can start coming out dirty even after washing.
(And believe me — once that happens, it’s really hard to fix without professional help.)
Self-Cleaning Cycles Are Easy to Forget — Set a Reminder
Honestly, I sometimes forget to run it.
Now I just set a reminder on my phone for once a month.
Some machines (like Samsung) will even flash a little “Self Clean” alert to remind you automatically, which helps a lot.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It to Get a Washer with Self-Clean?
Absolutely yes.
From personal experience, it extends the life of your machine, keeps your clothes cleaner, and saves money on repairs later.
If you’re buying a new washer, definitely pick one with a true self-clean cycle built in.
Self-Clean Cycles Are Especially Important for Humid Areas
If you live somewhere humid like I do, your washer is way more likely to build up mold and odors.
Running the self-clean cycle regularly fights off that hidden moisture buildup inside the drum and hoses.
Trust me, it makes a huge difference — especially in the summer when everything feels damp.
Top Load vs Front Load Self-Cleaning Cycles
In my experience, top load washers are a little easier to keep clean than front loaders.
Top loaders don’t have the same rubber gasket at the door where mold loves to grow.
But still, running the self-clean cycle is key to keeping both types smelling fresh and running strong.
Self-Clean Doesn’t Replace Good Habits
Even though self-clean cycles help a lot, I still leave my washer lid open after every load.
Letting the drum air out naturally prevents moisture buildup and mildew way better than just closing it right away.
It’s a small daily habit that adds years to the life of your washer.
