If you don’t want to use chlorine bleach, you can use pine oil, phenolic disinfectants, or quaternary disinfectants to clean your washer. Note that oxygen-based bleaches do not provide disinfectant qualities. Pay attention to the usage directions on product labels, and follow the same steps for cleaning with chlorine bleach as listed above.

Warning

Choose one method of cleaning and disinfecting a washer and dryer. Never mix cleaning chemicals.

How to Sanitize a Dryer

If contaminated laundry has been placed in a clothes dryer on the low heat or air-only cycle, there is the possibility of cross-contamination with the next load of laundry. Plus, if certain chemicals or petroleum products were involved, there is even the possibility of fire. The dryer should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

Remove Lint From the Dryer Screen
Wearing gloves, remove any lint from the lint screen, and safely dispose of it. The lint can be contaminated and cause skin irritation, among other issues.

Mix a Cleaning Solution
To clean a dryer drum, mix a solution of 1/4 cup of chlorine bleach and 1 quart of water. If you don’t wish to use chlorine bleach, mix a solution of pine oil, phenolic disinfectant, or quaternary disinfectant, following label instructions.

Wipe Down the Interior Dryer Drum
Dip a cloth or soft-bristled scrub brush into your cleaning solution. Then, wipe the entire surface of the dryer drum, the rubber seals and gaskets, and the interior of the dryer door.

Rinse the Interior Drum
It is very important to rinse all surfaces with a clean cloth dipped in plain water. Then, toss in a few old towels or rags, set the dryer to high, and allow it to run for 10 minutes to remove any residual cleaning solution.

Clean the Exterior of the Dryer
Finally, wipe down the outside of the dryer with your cleaning solution, and rinse well with a cloth dipped in clean water.