Be honest: When was the last time you gave your laundry room a deep clean? Not just a quick wipe-down, but an actual, thorough refresh? If your answer is “never” or “does that even need to happen?” we have some work to do.

Your washing machine has been scrubbing out stains for months, your dryer has been working overtime, and that cluttered shelf is begging for a reset. Giving your laundry space some long-overdue attention means fresher clothes, a more efficient clean, and, frankly, a better vibe. Doing laundry is already a chore, so you might as well make it a satisfying one.

Ahead, the deep clean your laundry room desperately needs—and a few pro tips to make your entire setup work (and smell) better.

Deep Clean Your Washing Machine

Your washer cleans everything you throw in it—now it’s time to return the favor. Over time, detergent buildup, hard water deposits, and mildew start lurking where you can’t see them—leaving your clothes not-so-fresh. Here’s how to fix it:

1. 1. Run an empty cycle with hot water and vinegar. Pour two cups of white vinegar into the drum (or detergent dispenser) and run the longest, hottest cycle. This breaks down gunk and kills bacteria.
2. 2. Scrub the rubber gasket. That seal around the door traps water, detergent, and whatever grime your jeans left behind. Wipe it down with a mix of vinegar and baking soda.
3. 3. Clean the detergent drawer. If it’s removable, take it out and scrub off any residue. If not, a toothbrush and hot water work just fine.
4. 4. Leave the door open. Let the machine dry out completely after every wash. Otherwise, you’ve just created the ideal breeding ground for mold.

Clean Your Lint Trap

A full lint trap isn’t just inefficient—it’s a fire hazard. And if you’re the type who forgets to empty it every time, chances are, it needs more than just a quick swipe. Here’s how to do it properly:

1. 1. Remove the lint screen and clean it. Run it under warm, soapy water and let it dry.
2. 2. Vacuum the trap slot. Dust and lint sneak past the screen—suck it all out before it clogs up your dryer.
3. 3. Check for waxy buildup. If you use dryer sheets, residue can coat the screen, reducing airflow. Scrub it with dish soap and a soft brush if needed.

Wipe Down Your Dryer Drum

Think your dryer drum is clean just because it looks empty? Think again. Dryer sheets, fabric softeners, and even residual lint can leave a film behind—one that transfers to your fresh laundry. Here’s how to freshen it up:

1. 1. Mix warm water and mild dish soap. Wipe down the entire interior with a microfiber cloth.
2. 2. For stubborn residue, use vinegar and baking soda. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
3. 3. Dry it with a clean towel. Leave the door open for a bit to air it out.

Check and Clean Your Dryer Vent Hose

A clogged dryer vent isn’t just inconvenient—it’s a serious fire risk. If your dryer has been working harder than usual or your clothes take forever to dry, it’s time to clean the vent. Here’s how:

1. 1. Unplug your dryer and pull it away from the wall. (Yes, you’re getting some exercise today).
2. 2. Detach the vent hose. If it’s secured with a clamp, loosen it with a screwdriver.
3. 3. Vacuum or brush out the lint buildup. You’d be surprised at how much gets stuck in there. If you don’t have a vent cleaning brush, now’s the time to invest.
4. 4. Reattach everything and push your dryer back. Enjoy knowing you just made your laundry setup infinitely safer.

Sweep and Mop Behind/Under the Machines

Not to alarm you, but there’s probably an entire colony of dust bunnies living behind your washer and dryer. Maybe even that sock you thought you lost in 2022. Here’s what to do:

1. 1. Pull the machines out carefully. Enlist a friend if needed—these things aren’t light.
2. 2. Vacuum up dust, lint, and debris. Pay attention to corners and baseboards.
3. 3. Mop the floor. Warm water and a mild cleaner will do the trick.
4. 4. Push everything back into place. Enjoy knowing that, for once, the floor under your machines is actually clean.

Clean Your Laundry Baskets and Hampers

You toss dirty clothes into your hamper every day, but when was the last time you cleaned it? Exactly. Here’s how to fix that:

• Plastic hampers: Wipe down with disinfecting wipes or a vinegar-water solution.
• Fabric hampers: If they’re machine-washable, run them through a cycle. If not, spot-clean and let them air dry.
• Wicker hampers: Vacuum out lint and use a damp cloth to remove dust.

Replenish & Reorganize Your Laundry Supplies

Nothing ruins the rhythm of laundry day like realizing you’re out of detergent mid-load. Spring is the perfect excuse to restock and rethink how you store everything. Here’s your checklist:

• Replace worn-out dryer balls. If they look tired, they’re not working as well.
• Restock on the essentials. Laundry pods, fabric softener, scent booster, dryer sheets, and fabric refresher spray—get everything in one go. Pro Tip: Subscribe to the Laundry Sauce Signature Package to lock in a consistent, elevated fragrance across all of your laundry products.
• Create a system. Use baskets, clear containers, or shelves to keep everything accessible and aesthetically pleasing. No more digging through a mess just to find your stain remover.

It’s Time to Hit Refresh On Your Laundry Routine

A clean laundry room means cleaner clothes, better efficiency, and one less chaotic space in your home. Plus, there’s something undeniably satisfying about knowing everything smells fresh, works smoothly, and looks put together. So go ahead and reset your laundry routine. Your wardrobe (and your sanity) will be better for it.