4 Simple Steps to Eliminate Bad Smell from Your Washing Machine
Bad smells in your laundry can be a hassle, but with these 4 easy steps, you can banish odors and keep your clothes smelling fresh!
Source infographicjournal.com
Has your once trusty washing machine started to emit an unpleasant odor? This is a common problem, and the bad smell can often transfer to your clothes, making your laundry smell less than fresh. Don’t worry, with a little effort, you can get rid of the odor and keep your washing machine smelling clean and fresh.
Step 1: Clean the Door Seal
The door seal is the rubber gasket around the door of your washing machine. It helps to keep water from leaking out during the wash cycle, but it can also collect dirt, grime, and mildew, which can cause a bad smell. To clean the door seal, wipe it down with a damp cloth and a mild detergent solution.
Step 2: Run a Hot Water Cycle with Bleach
Bleach is a powerful disinfectant that can kill bacteria, fungi, and mold. Running a hot water cycle with bleach will help to kill the bacteria that may be causing the bad smell in your washing machine. Add about 2 cups of bleach to the bleach dispenser and run a hot water cycle.
Step 3: Run a Cycle with a Washing Machine Cleaner
There are a number of commercial washing machine cleaners available on the market. These products are designed to remove dirt, grime, and mineral deposits from your washing machine, which can all contribute to a bad smell. Follow the instructions on the package of your washing machine cleaner.
Step 4: Leave the Door and Detergent Drawer Open
After you’ve run a cycle with a washing machine cleaner, leave the door and detergent drawer open to air out. This will help to dry out the washing machine and prevent mold and mildew from forming.
Tips for Preventing Bad Smells in Your Washing Machine
In addition to following the steps above, there are a few things you can do to help prevent bad smells from developing in your washing machine:
- Don’t overload your washing machine. Overloading can prevent your clothes from getting clean and can also contribute to the growth of bacteria and mildew.
- Use the right amount of detergent. Using too much detergent can leave a residue on your clothes and in your washing machine, which can attract dirt and bacteria.
- Wash your clothes in hot water whenever possible. Hot water kills bacteria and helps to remove dirt and grime.
- Don’t leave wet clothes in your washing machine. Wet clothes can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
- Clean your washing machine regularly. Run a hot water cycle with bleach or a washing machine cleaner once a month to help prevent bacteria and mildew from building up.
Conclusion
With a little effort, you can eliminate bad smells from your washing machine and keep your clothes smelling fresh and clean. If you’ve tried the steps above and you’re still having problems with bad smells, you may need to call a qualified appliance repair technician.
Check Out Our Other Articles on How to Clean Your Home!
- How to Clean Your Oven
- How to Clean Your Microwave
- How to Clean Your Dishwasher
- How to Clean Your Refrigerator
- How to Clean Your Washing Machine
FAQ about How to Eliminate Bad Smell from Washing Machine
Q: Why does my washing machine smell bad?
P: Bacteria and mold can build up in the machine, especially in areas that stay moist, such as the gasket, detergent drawer, and drain hose.
A: Clean these areas regularly to prevent odor.
Q: How can I get rid of the bad smell in my washing machine?
P: Use a washing machine cleaner or a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda.
A: Run a hot water cycle with the cleaner or solution to disinfect the machine.
Q: How often should I clean my washing machine?
P: Once a month is recommended to prevent odor and buildup.
A: More frequent cleaning may be necessary if you use your machine frequently or live in a humid environment.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean my washing machine?
P: Bleach can damage the rubber components of the machine.
A: Use a washing machine cleaner specifically designed for the task.
Q: How do I clean the gasket of my washing machine?
P: Wipe it down with a damp cloth and a mixture of white vinegar and water.
A: Use an old toothbrush to remove any buildup from the crevices.
Q: How do I clean the detergent drawer?
P: Remove the drawer and rinse it with hot water.
A: Use a small brush to remove any caked-on detergent or fabric softener.
Q: How do I clean the drain hose?
P: Disconnect the hose from the machine and drain it outside.
A: Flush the hose with hot water and baking soda to remove any buildup.
Q: Can I use essential oils to freshen my washing machine?
P: Yes, you can add a few drops of tea tree oil or lavender oil to the washing machine during a hot water cycle.
A: This will help to deodorize the machine and leave a fresh scent.
Q: What other tips can I follow to prevent odor in my washing machine?
P: Leave the door and lid open after each use to allow the machine to dry out.
A: Wipe up any spills immediately and avoid overloading the machine.
Q: If I’ve tried all these methods but the smell persists, what should I do?
P: Contact a qualified appliance repair technician.
A: There may be an underlying problem that requires professional attention.
