Do you sometimes smell a foul odor coming from your washer? Clothes shouldn’t be cleaned if the washer smells like mildew, right? We’ve got some tricks of the trade that will help you get rid of the offensive odor.
Cleaning Hacks if Your Washer Smells Like Mildew
Why Does My Washer Smell Bad?
Using the washing machine can result in a smelly washer tub. Don’t be alarmed; it’s actually pretty normal. The moist, warm environment of the washer provides an ideal place for mold, mildew, and bacteria to grow, which eventually means your washer smells like mildew.
If you think about it, the amount of dirt and filth that runs through the average washer is significant. Although modern washers are well equipped to whisk all the grime away, there are always trace amounts that inevitably linger behind… in the wash tub, around rubber gaskets, or anywhere they didn’t rinse fully clean from.
Particularly common in front load washers, the funky smell can become quite offensive. It can also be fixed.
How to Clean a Washer that Smells Like Mildew
If your washer smells bad, then it’s time to learn how to maintain it properly and keep it clean and mildew-free. I mean, smelly washers and clean clothes just don’t jive well together.
Try these cleaning tricks for how to clean a washing machine and the only scent you’ll catch is clean.
Clean the Washer Tub
It probably sounds kind of funny to clean something that is designed for cleaning, but that’s what you must do! When the washer smells like mildew, you can remedy the problem using basic household products.
Begin with an empty washer, and pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the wash tub. For an extra fresh scent and further sanitation, add a few drops of lemon or Tea Tree essential oils and run the washer on the hottest setting.
When the cycle is complete, use an old sponge and toothbrush in a 1 part vinegar to 1 part water solution to remove any residual grime or residue.
Repeat the process monthly for best results.
Image from DIY Natural
Clean the Door Boot
If your washer smells like mildew in a front load washer, the most likely culprit to foul odors is the big rubber gasket, called the door boot, that seals the door when closed to prevent leaks.
Pour the vinegar solution into a spray bottle (this just makes it easier). Thoroughly spray the door boot, pulling it gently away to spray into the crevices, then leave on for 15 minutes. Using a sponge or clean cloth dampened with the vinegar solution, wipe everything clean to remove any mildew and grime.
Repeat this process once more, then repeat monthly to prevent future odors.
Visit our informative blog for more great washer tips!
Does your washer need more than mild cleaning? Contact our D&T Appliance Service technicians for washer repair near Minneapolis.
