Front-load washing machines have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. They're admired for their sleek design, water and efficiency, cleaning capabilities and simple operation.
But there's one resounding flaw: They get smelly, otherwise regularly maintained.
That's why we hear this question frequently: “I have a brand-new washing machine and my clothes are coming out smelling so bad. What's wrong? How do I get rid of the smell?”
The most typical cause of a smelly front load washer is mold.
Unfortunately, front loaders tend to be more vulnerable to mold growth than top-load automatic washers because of their design.
The space between your tub and the gasket (rubber seal) is really a moisture-filled incubator for mold growth.
But it's easy to prevent it.
Here are my tips on how to clean a smelly front-loading washing machine:
- Cover your hands with rubber gloves.
- In a bucket, a combination a gallon of warm water with half a cup of bleach.
- Saturate the cleaning cloth with the cleaning solution.
- Gently pull around the gasket and softly run the rub with the space between the gasket and the tub.
- Use a toothbrush or other small bristle brush dipped in this cleaning solution to remove the mold.
- Use a cotton swab (such as Q-tips(R) brand) to access hard-to-reach locations.
- Keep the machine's door open for eight to 10 hours for thorough drying.
How to maintain your front-loading washing machine clean and smelling fresh:
Every time you use your washing machine:
- After every cycle, make use of an absorbent cloth to wipe the tub and along the gasket to remove moisture. Yes, this must happen after every cycle.
- Use only powder detergent created for high-efficiency (HE) models. Liquid detergent, even formulas marked for HE models, isn't recommended.
- Don't use more detergent than necessary, even if you're washing a mud-caked football uniform. Extraneous detergent does more damage than good. Constant overuse of detergent will result in deposit buildup in the machine and the dispenser. It will also cause premature wear on fabric.
- Remove clothing as soon as the cycle is complete. Damp clothing left within the machine is a mildew paradise.
- Keep the doorway slightly ajar when not in use for air flow. Be careful with this in homes with small children or pets.
Monthly:
- Use a washing machine cleaner tablet to remove residue in high-efficiency (HE). The most popular is AffreshTM Washing Machine Cleaner, which works for all brands of automatic washers:
RepairClinic Item #1373065
- Check the drain pump trap (most often located at the base behind the leading panel of the machine and take away lint and any loose objects such as coins or buttons. Keeping the trap clean will help the water flow properly and stop dangerous buildup in the machine.
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