how to get mildew smell out of washing machine

how to get mildew smell out of washing machine washing machine smells like sewage
top loading washing machine smells how to remove bad smell from washing machine clothes smell like mildew after washing

After using your washing machine for a long time, you may notice that it starts to emit an unpleasant odour. Using a washing machine to clean your clothes is easy and convenient, but many people are unaware that over time, a lot of dirt can build up inside the machine and on the walls of the drum. In addition, washing machines can sometimes emit unpleasant odours due to the cleaning process and residual moisture. Recently, a mother discovered that the rubber gasket inside her washing machine was covered in mould. After carefully cleaning it with a tissue, the tissue turned black, which was quite alarming.

In fact, previous research has shown that after six months of use, the mould inside the washing machine can grow rapidly and the number of bacteria it harbours can even exceed that found in toilet bowls. Regular cleaning is therefore essential.

A study conducted by the University of Arizona in the United States has revealed that washing machines are teeming with bacteria, and without regular cleaning there’s a chance that these bacteria could be transferred to your clothes during the washing process, potentially leading to cross-contamination. Specifically, after washing underwear, the study found that washing machines could harbor around 100 million Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria, which could then be transferred to other items of clothing during subsequent wash cycles. The research also found that the use of detergents and fabric softeners increased the likelihood of bacteria sticking to clothes.

The study also found that after just six months of use, the growth of mould inside washing machines accelerates significantly, with bacteria exceeding safe levels in around 81.3% of cases. In 60.2% of these cases, mould was found. If a washing machine isn’t cleaned for three years, the bacteria count can rise to over 700,000, which is 530 times more than is typically found in a toilet bowl.

The washing machine is one of the most indispensable appliances in our daily lives, and mouldy odours in the washing machine are a common problem that can be quite annoying. However, this problem can be easily solved with simple methods. This article discusses the various causes of washing machine odours and provides insights into how to detect, prevent, clean and eliminate musty odours in your washing machine. This will help you solve this problem effortlessly, ensuring that your clothes stay fresh and clean and your washing machine smells fresh for years to come!

The Causes of Washing Machine Moldy Odors

The main causes of mouldy odours in washing machines include

Humidity problems: Washing machines typically create a humid environment during the washing and rinsing process due to the need for water. If the washing machine doesn’t dry sufficiently after use, the moisture can encourage the growth of bacteria and mould, leading to mould odours.

Residue build-up: During the washing process, dirt, detergent residue, clothing fibres and skin flakes can accumulate inside the washing machine. These accumulations provide an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria and mould, leading to the development of odours.

Seal and door seal: Washing machine seals and door gaskets are places where moisture and dampness can be trapped, making them susceptible to dirt and bacteria. If these parts are not cleaned regularly, they can become a breeding ground for mould and mildew.

Low-temperature washing: Using low-temperature washing cycles, especially in high-humidity environments, may not provide enough heat to kill bacteria and mould inside the washing machine, contributing to the development of mouldy odours.

Excessive use of detergents and fabric softeners: Excessive use of detergents and fabric softeners can leave residues in the washing machine, providing additional nutrients for bacterial growth and contributing to odour problems.

Washing machines may appear clean at first glance, but without proper maintenance over time, they can lead to serious problems!

However, you may not be aware that besides the stainless steel drum of the washing machine, there is also an outer drum where the laundry water circulates back and forth.

When you pull out the stainless steel drum, you can discover the shocking dirt and grime within this interlayer.

The dirt in the washing machine often originates from:

• Mineral deposits in tap water.
• Residue from laundry detergent.
• Fibrous lint from clothing.
• Human skin flakes and hair.
• Dust and mold from clothing.

These substances accumulate in the interlayer of the washing machine and thrive and ferment in the humid environment of the machine. If the washing machine is not cleaned regularly, it can lead to washing machine odors, a stuffy smell, or even mold in the washing machine. These issues not only affect the cleanliness of your clothes but can also be detrimental to your health, causing clothing allergies, itching, and other conditions.

Understanding these causes is essential in order to take appropriate measures to prevent and treat mould odours in washing machines.

How do I clean a smelly washing machine?

If your washing machine has an odor, there are two methods for cleaning it:

1. DIY Cleaning: You can clean it yourself using a homemade cleaning solution or a commercially available washing machine cleaner.
2. Professional Cleaning: Alternatively, you can hire a professional washing machine cleaning service to come to your home and clean it.

Cleaning a smelly washing machine is essential to eliminate odors and maintain a fresh-smelling appliance. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Materials You’ll Need:

• White vinegar or baking soda
• A mild detergent
• A soft cloth or sponge
• An old toothbrush or small brush
• A towel or rag
• Optional: lemon juice or commercial washing machine cleaner

Steps:

1. Empty the Washing Machine: Ensure the washing machine is completely empty. Remove any clothes, detergent containers, and accessories.
2. Inspect the Seal Gasket and Door: Start by checking the rubber seal gasket (if applicable) and the door. These areas are prone to mold and mildew buildup. Use a soft cloth or sponge soaked in a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar (or lemon juice) to wipe down the gasket and door thoroughly. Pay attention to any mold or residue, and use an old toothbrush or a small brush to scrub away stubborn spots.
3. Clean the Detergent and Fabric Softener Compartments: Remove the detergent and fabric softener dispensers (if removable) and wash them with warm soapy water. Rinse and dry them thoroughly before placing them back in the washing machine.
4. Run a Cleaning Cycle: Set your washing machine to the highest water temperature and longest wash cycle. Instead of adding laundry, pour 2 cups of white vinegar or 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drum. Let the machine run through the complete cycle. Both vinegar and baking soda are effective at breaking down residue and eliminating odors.
5. Wipe Down the Drum and Drum Gasket: After the cycle is complete, use a damp cloth or sponge to clean the inside of the drum and the drum gasket. This will help remove any remaining residue and vinegar or baking soda.
6. Inspect and Dry: Check the drain pump filter (if your machine has one) for any debris or blockages. Make sure there’s no standing water in the drum or around the rubber seal. Leave the door and detergent compartment open for a few hours to allow the machine to air dry thoroughly.
7. Optional Commercial Cleaner: If the odor persists, you can consider using a commercial washing machine cleaner following the manufacturer’s instructions. These products are designed to deep clean the machine and eliminate stubborn odors.
8. Regular Maintenance: To prevent future odors, keep the washing machine door and detergent compartment open when not in use to allow air circulation. Clean the gasket and run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or baking soda monthly or as needed.

By following these steps, you should be able to effectively clean your smelly washing machine and keep it smelling fresh.

How to freshen up a smelly washing machine

To remove these foul odours, use the following three-step process to restore the clean, fresh smell of your washing machine: scrub, sanitise and deodorise. Take care not to mix detergents, which can be dangerous.

STEP 1: Remove your soap, bleach and fabric softener dispensers and scrub each carefully.
Washing machine smells
Photo: istockphoto.com

If your washing machine smells like mould, the first thing to do is clean the soap, bleach and fabric softener dispensers. If water gets into any of these parts, it is often left as standing water between cycles – a breeding ground for mould.

Use an old toothbrush to get into the cracks and crevices of the dispensers, then use a pipe cleaner to remove any build-up inside the dispenser pipes.

If you have a front-load washing machine, wipe around the rubber seal with a damp cloth and use a cotton bud to remove any build-up around the seal.
For top-loading washing machines, pay particular attention to the cracks and crevices around the doors, where dirt tends to hide. When you’ve finished scrubbing the parts, it’s time to move on to the bath.
STEP 2: Sanitise your smelly washing machine with chlorine bleach.
Chlorine bleach is an effective way to deal with a smelly washing machine because it’s the absolute best way to kill mould and mildew. Make sure you take the proper precautions when using bleach and don’t mix it with other cleaning products for safety reasons.

The amount of bleach you should use depends on your washing machine: Add 4 cups of bleach to a top-loading machine or 2 cups to a front-loading machine, then start a cycle. Set the washing machine to the highest temperature possible. Allow the tub to fill and stop the cycle once the agitator has mixed the bleach. Allow the bleach to sit for 30 minutes, then restart the cycle. One more cycle should remove all traces of bleach.

STEP 3: Remove any lingering odours with a vinegar wash.
Washing machine smells
Photo: istockphoto.com

Not only is vinegar an excellent deodoriser, but the acidic nature of the liquid removes hard water deposits as well as any residual bacteria that may have survived the bleach. To get started, set your washing machine to its hottest setting. Add 4 cups of plain white vinegar (not balsamic or apple cider) to a top-load machine or 2 cups to a front-load machine. Don’t use detergent or anything else in this cycle – the vinegar will work on its own!

From this point on, the process should feel familiar: Allow the tub to fill, then stop the cycle once the agitator has mixed the vinegar and water. After 30 minutes, turn the washer back on and allow the cycle to continue until complete.

STEP 4: Rinse the drum with a hot water service wash.
When the vinegar wash is complete, rinse the drum with a service wash. A service wash, also known as a maintenance wash or self-cleaning cycle, uses hot water to clean the inside of the machine. Some newer washing machines may have a service wash setting, but if yours doesn’t, you can simply set the machine for a long hot wash cycle.

Running a service wash about once a month can help prevent washing machine odours from returning in the future. Always make sure your washing machine is completely empty before running a service wash. You can also add a washing machine detergent to the cycle to help eliminate more bacteria and odours than hot water alone.

6 Effective Ways to Clean Your Washing Machine:

Soak a towel in white vinegar and place it in the washing machine. Wash it with water at 40°C.

1. Fill the washing machine drum with hot water and add about 100g of baking soda using the washing machine’s cleaning function or a regular wash cycle.
2. Let the washing machine run for 5 minutes, then let it soak for half an hour. Afterward, drain the water, fill it with clean water, and run a regular washing cycle.
3. After cleaning with baking soda, fill the machine with hot water again and add approximately 300ml of white vinegar. Let the washing machine agitate for a few minutes.
4. Then let it soak for an hour and follow up with a regular washing cycle using clean water.
5. Finally, use a toothbrush dipped in white vinegar to scrub any visible stains.

Additionally, research suggests that washing machines tend to harbor a significant amount of mold due to their residual moisture after use. Closing the washing machine lid can promote the growth of mold. Therefore, it’s recommended to leave the washing machine lid open after each use. Doing so can reduce bacteria growth by about 40%. Prolonged use of a mold-infested washing machine for laundry can potentially lead to skin issues. As a result, experts advise cleaning the washing machine every one to two months.

How do I get rid of the odour from my front-loading washing machine?

Here are some tips on how to get rid of the odour from your front-loading washing machine:

• Clean your washing machine regularly. Use a washing machine cleaner or white vinegar to clean the inside of the machine.
• Keep your washing machine dry. Leave the door open after each use to allow the inside to dry out.
• Use the correct amount of detergent and fabric softener. Too much detergent and fabric softener can build up in the machine and cause odors.
• Clean the washing machine filter regularly. The filter can trap hair, lint, and other debris, which can lead to odors.
• Wash clothes on a high temperature setting. High temperatures can kill bacteria and mold, which can cause odors.

Here are some additional tips:

• Add a cup of baking soda to the washing machine. Baking soda can absorb odors and keep the machine clean.
• Add a cup of white vinegar to the washing machine. White vinegar can kill bacteria and mold.
• Leave the washing machine door open after each use. This will allow the inside of the machine to dry out.
• Place the washing machine in a well-ventilated area. This will help to prevent odors from building up.

How do you freshen up a top loading washing machine?

To freshen up a top-loading washing machine, you can follow these steps:

1. Empty the washing machine.
2. Run a hot water cycle. This will help to loosen any dirt or debris that may be built up in the machine.
3. Add a cup of white vinegar to the washing machine. White vinegar is a natural disinfectant and can help to remove odors.
4. Run the washing machine cycle.
5. Wipe down the inside of the washing machine with a damp cloth. This will help to remove any remaining dirt or debris.
6. Leave the washing machine door open for a while to allow it to dry out.

You can also freshen up your top-loading washing machine by using a commercial washing machine cleaner. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label carefully.

Here are some additional tips for freshening up your top-loading washing machine:

• Clean the washing machine filter regularly. The filter can trap hair, lint, and other debris, which can lead to odors.
• Use the correct amount of detergent and fabric softener. Too much detergent and fabric softener can build up in the machine and cause odors.
• Wash clothes on a high temperature setting. High temperatures can kill bacteria and mold, which can cause odors.
• Place the washing machine in a well-ventilated area. This will help to prevent odors from building up.

To clean a washing machine, is it better to use bleach or vinegar?

Cleaning a washing machine can be done effectively with both bleach and vinegar, but each has its specific benefits:

Bleach: Bleach excels at disinfection and removing mold and mildew buildup in the washing machine. It’s especially valuable if you’ve noticed strong odors or visible mold. To use bleach, simply add 1 cup of chlorine bleach to the washing machine’s bleach dispenser or directly into the drum. Then, run a hot water cycle without any laundry. Always consult your washing machine’s manual for specific bleach usage recommendations.

Vinegar: Vinegar, a natural cleaner, is adept at breaking down residue and mineral buildup in your washing machine. It’s an excellent choice for regular maintenance and odor control. To clean with vinegar, pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the washing machine and run a hot water cycle without any laundry. Vinegar can also effectively clean the detergent and fabric softener compartments.

In summary, for routine cleaning and maintenance, vinegar offers a gentler and eco-friendly option. However, if you’re contending with stubborn mold or bacterial issues, bleach can serve as a more potent disinfectant. Always adhere to manufacturer guidelines and take into account your washing machine’s type when choosing between bleach and vinegar.

Both bleach and vinegar have their unique strengths and drawbacks when it comes to cleaning washing machines.

Bleach: As a robust disinfectant, bleach can eliminate a broad spectrum of bacteria and mold. It’s also effective at removing stains and discoloration. However, bleach should be handled with care, as it can harm clothing and fabrics if not properly diluted and used following the product label instructions.

Vinegar: Vinegar, being a natural disinfectant, can combat many types of bacteria and mold effectively. It’s also proficient at removing mineral deposits and hard water stains. Unlike bleach, vinegar is a milder cleaning agent and poses less risk of damaging clothing or fabrics. Nevertheless, it may not be as effective as bleach in removing certain types of stains and discoloration.

The choice between bleach and vinegar hinges on your specific needs. If your washing machine is heavily soiled or emits a strong odor, bleach may be the preferred option. However, if you are concerned about potential damage to your clothing or fabrics, or if you have sensitive skin, vinegar may be the better choice.

Here are some tips for using bleach and vinegar to clean your washing machine:

Bleach:

• Always dilute bleach according to the instructions on the product label.
• Add the bleach to the detergent dispenser and run a hot water cycle.
• Remember to wear gloves and eye protection when handling bleach.

Vinegar:

• Add two cups of vinegar to the detergent dispenser and run a hot water cycle.
• You can also wipe down the inside of the washing machine with a damp cloth soaked in vinegar.

Regardless of your choice, it’s crucial to clean your washing machine regularly. Doing so will help prevent the accumulation of dirt, debris, and bacteria, which can lead to odors and other issues.

How do you keep your washer odourless?

There are a few things you can do to keep your washing machine smell-free:

• Clean your washing machine regularly. Use a washing machine cleaner or white vinegar to clean the inside of the machine.
• Keep your washing machine dry. Leave the door open after each use to allow the inside to dry out.
• Use the correct amount of detergent and fabric softener. Too much detergent and fabric softener can build up in the machine and cause odors.
• Clean the washing machine filter regularly. The filter can trap hair, lint, and other debris, which can lead to odors.
• Wash clothes on a high temperature setting. High temperatures can kill bacteria and mold, which can cause odors.

Here are some additional tips:

• Add a cup of baking soda to the washing machine. Baking soda can absorb odors and keep the machine clean.
• Add a cup of white vinegar to the washing machine. White vinegar can kill bacteria and mold.
• Leave the washing machine door open after each use. This will allow the inside of the machine to dry out.
• Place the washing machine in a well-ventilated area. This will help to prevent odors from building up.

If you follow these tips, you can keep your washing machine fresh and clean, and your clothes will smell great too!

Here are some additional tips to help prevent odors from developing in your washing machine:

Avoid washing heavily soiled clothes in the washing machine. If you have clothes with tough stains, pre-treat them before washing.

Avoid washing too many clothes at once. This can overload the washing machine and prevent clothes from getting completely clean.

Clean the washing machine gasket regularly. The gasket is the rubber seal around the door of the washing machine. It can trap dirt and debris, which can lead to odors.

Wipe down the outside of the washing machine regularly. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated.

Keeping your washing machine smelling fresh requires regular maintenance and some simple practices. Here are some tips to help you keep your washing machine odor-free:

1. Leave the Door Open: After each use, leave the washing machine door or lid open to allow air to circulate and prevent moisture from building up inside the drum. This helps to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
2. Clean the Gasket: The rubber gasket around the door of front-load washing machines can collect moisture and dirt. Wipe it down regularly with a damp cloth to prevent mold growth.
3. Clean the Detergent Drawer: If your washing machine has a detergent drawer, remove it and clean it regularly. Detergent and fabric softener residues can accumulate and cause odors.
4. Run Empty Cycles: Periodically run your washing machine on a hot water cycle without any laundry, using either vinegar or a washing machine cleaner. This helps to remove any built-up residue and disinfect the drum.
5. Use Less Detergent: Overusing laundry detergent can leave behind residues that contribute to odors. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for detergent usage, and consider using less if your clothes are not heavily soiled.
6. Clean the Filter: Front-load washing machines often have a filter that can become clogged with lint, debris, and small objects. Check and clean this filter regularly to ensure proper drainage and prevent odors.
7. Dry the Drum: If you have a top-load washing machine, wipe down the inside of the drum and the agitator after each use. Leave the lid open to allow it to dry thoroughly.
8. Avoid Overloading: Overloading your washing machine can lead to inefficient washing and poor rinsing, which can contribute to odors. Follow the machine’s load capacity guidelines.
9. Check for Leaks: Ensure that your washing machine is not leaking water, as accumulated moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth.
10. Use High-Efficiency Detergents: High-efficiency (HE) detergents are formulated to work with modern washing machines and can help reduce the likelihood of residue buildup.

By following these tips and maintaining a regular cleaning schedule, you can help keep your washing machine smelling fresh and free from unpleasant odors.