A front-loading washing machine is a great convenience. However, if you have noticed an unpleasant odor coming from your washer, you’re not alone. Over time, bacteria and mold can build up in the drum and cause that musty smell. The good news is, there are several steps you can take to eliminate the odor and prevent it from coming back.
Clean the Washer’s Interior
The first step to remove the odor is to clean the washer’s interior. Start by washing the drum with a mixture of 1 cup of bleach and 4 cups of warm water. Make sure to wear gloves to protect your hands. Place the solution in your washer’s dispenser and run the washer on the hottest cycle. Once the cycle is complete, leave the door open to let the interior air out. You can also use a solution of vinegar and baking soda for cleaning the washer. This method is more natural and safer for the environment, and it is also effective in removing mold and mildew. Use 2 cups of white vinegar and a half cup of baking soda. Place the solution in your washer’s drum and run it on the hottest cycle.
Clean the Gasket
The next step is to clean the gasket, which is the rubber seal around the door. This seal can collect moisture and mold, causing the odor to develop. To clean the gasket, wipe it down with a mixture of warm water, vinegar, and baking soda. Use a soft cloth to remove any debris from the gasket. Be sure to get into all the crevices and corners of the seal. Do this once a month to keep the gasket clean.
Leave the Washer Door Open
To prevent moisture from building up in the drum and gasket, leave the washer door open between washes. This allows the interior to dry out and air out. You should also empty the washer completely after each wash, so there is no standing water in the machine. Standing water can create a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
Use HE Detergent and Do Not Overload the Machine
Using high-efficiency (HE) detergent is essential for preventing odors. HE detergent creates fewer suds and is formulated to work with low-water washing machines. Overloading the machine can also cause odors. Clothes need room to move around so that detergent can reach all parts of the fabric. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for clothes load sizes, so there is enough space for clothes to move during the wash cycle.
Conclusion
If your front-loading washer is emitting a musty smell, following these steps will help you get rid of the odor and prevent it from returning. The key is to clean the machine regularly, leave the door open, use HE detergent, and not overload the machine. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your laundry smells fresh and clean every time.
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