Maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen is important, especially regarding appliances like the Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker and the Whirlpool freestanding ice machine. These machines are essential for making cold drinks and storing food, so keeping them clean and functioning properly is important. Are you wondering how to clean a Whirlpool ice machine, or do you need a clean Whirlpool freestanding ice maker for fresher ice? You’ve found the right place for all of your Whirlpool ice machine cleaning questions.
Learn How to Clean a Whirlpool Ice Machine and a Whirlpool Freestanding Ice Maker
In this blog post, we will discuss how to clean a Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker and how to clean a Whirlpool freestanding ice machine. We’ll also answer some common questions about how to clean a Whirlpool ice machine, such as “How often should I clean my Whirlpool Ice Maker?” and “Can you clean an ice machine with vinegar?”. So whether you’re wondering how to descale your Whirlpool ice maker or just need some tips on keeping your Whirlpool ice machine clean, this blog post is for you.

How Often Should I Clean My Whirlpool Ice Maker?
Wondering how often you should clean a Whirlpool ice machine? Your ice maker should be cleaned once every three months, or more often if you notice the ice production decreases or the status light changes to red. Other signs you may need to clean a Whirlpool refrigerator ice machine include ice tasting bad or ice smelling weird. Is your ice machine not working at all? Give a professional Whirlpool repair technician a call for proper diagnosis.
How Do I Clean my Whirlpool Refrigerator Ice Maker?
Whirlpool recommends using a special ice maker cleaning solution called Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner for best results. To clean a Whirlpool refrigerator ice maker, you will need the following materials:
- Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner
- A clean cloth
- Distilled water

Directions to Clean Refrigerator Ice Maker:
- Turn off the ice maker and disconnect it from the power supply.
- Remove the ice bin from the ice maker and freezer.
- Empty any ice from the bin into the sink.
- Using a washcloth dipped in Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner, thoroughly clean the ice bin and the ice maker chute.
- Wipe down any surfaces cleaned with the ice machine cleaner using a washcloth moistened in warm distilled water.
- Make sure both are completely dry before continuing the cleaning process.
- Turn on the ice maker and discard the first three batches of ice produced, which will process and remove any remaining ice machine cleaner residue.
How to Clean the Whirlpool Freestanding Ice Machine
Cleaning a Whirlpool freestanding ice machine is similar to cleaning a refrigerator ice maker, but there are a few additional steps. You will need the following materials:
- Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner
- A clean cloth
- Distilled water
- The Use and Care Guide for your ice maker model

Directions to Clean Whirlpool Freestanding Ice Machine:
- Remove any ice from the ice bin and turn off the ice maker.
- Allow the unit to sit for ten minutes to defrost.
- Begin to clean Whirlpool freestanding ice maker by first draining out all of the water. Remove the drain cap at the back of the unit, carefully drain the water into a large bowl, then replace the cap.
- Pour 16oz of the Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner into the water pan. Refill the bottle with warm water twice, and add it to the water pan and ice machine cleaner.
- Start the cleaning cycle by pushing the “clean” button.
- A light will begin to blink, indicating the cleaning cycle is running. When the cleaning cycle is complete, this light will fully illuminate.
- When the cleaning cycle is finished, remove the drain cap on the back of the unit and empty any remaining water and cleaning solution. Replace the drain cap.
- Consult your appliance’s Use and Care Guide for instructions specific to your model.
Can You Clean an Ice Machine With Vinegar?
Yes, you can clean an ice machine with vinegar if necessary. However, Whirlpool recommends using a special ice maker cleaning solution called Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner for best results. To clean your ice machine with vinegar, follow the above steps using a 1:1 solution of distilled white vinegar with water.
How Do I Descale my Whirlpool Ice Maker?
If your ice maker needs to be descaled, you can do so with a brush. First, remove any ice from the ice bin and turn off the machine. Next, mix one part water with one part distilled white vinegar in a clean bowl. For a freestanding ice machine, pour this mixture into the water reservoir and clean any residual cleaner from outside the reservoir with a clean cloth. Allow the mixture to sit for 30 minutes, then scrub the interior of the ice maker with a brush. Finally, rinse out the unit with clean water and dry it thoroughly before using it again. For a refrigerator ice machine, dip a washcloth into the mixture and use it to scrub the ice bin and ice chute. Thoroughly wipe down both surfaces with warm distilled water to rinse and ensure all surfaces are dry before using the ice machine again. After descaling your Whirlpool ice maker, allow the unit to run 3 times, throwing out the produced ice after each cycle, to ensure any remaining vinegar solution is disposed of.
Cleaning a Whirlpool ice machine is important to maintain efficiency and keep your ice tasting great. Use these tips to clean your ice maker and keep it in top condition. If you need Whirlpool ice machine repair, call the Capital City Appliance Service experts for fast, professional service!