First, run a cycle of bleach. If your washer has a clean cycle, you should use that, then run a cleaning tab like affresh at least once or twice a month for the inner workings seals, etc. For the main door gasket, use some Clorox wipes with hot water tends to work best, but it needs to be kept dry afterward, or you risk it coming back. Newer machines have better drainage in this area. Older ones will require weekly maintenance to prevent build-up. Best to leave the door slightly ajar after the cycle is run.

The first thing to do is remove the hot water hose from the back and place it in a bucket. Turn on the water to see if it’s going in there hot. The next step is to clean the filter on the inlet valve while the hose is off. If the water is hot and the hose inlet screen is clear, then it’s the inlet valve that will need replacing.

Warm soapy water to clean, dry with a microfiber cloth. After it’s clean and dry, use a cleaner like Stainless Steel Magic or Twinkle brand. I prefer the aerosol-based as I always found it cleans better. Stainless is slightly porous, so always let it sit a minute before cleaning. When you wipe it down, remember to wipe with the grain as stainless does have a grain. We do that here in the showroom, and they all come out looking brand new. For the really stubborn stains, I would use Goo Gone first. That will remove the ones that are worked in.

Yes, you need to keep those seals from drying out. If that happens, they will rot out and potentially leak. Run some cleaning tabs once or twice a month, and you will be ok! Just don’t let it sit too long without running.