Do you know that your washing machine needs to be cleaned on a regular basis? If not, you may start noticing a funny smell coming from it. So, how do you clean a washing machine and get rid of that bad odor? Well, there are a few different ways. We will discuss the causes of bad smells in washing machines and provide some tips for cleaning them. And we’ll answer the question “why does my washing machine smell”.
Follow these tips and your machine will be smelling fresh again in no time! We’d also recommend checking out our washer maintenance tips while you’re here as well.
Why Does My Washing Machine Stink?
Over time, dirt and detergent can build up in your washing machine, causing it to smell bad. But there are a few other possible causes of smells as well.
If you have a front-loading washing machine, the door seal can trap moisture and become a breeding ground for mold and mildew. This is why it’s important to keep the door open after each use so that the machine can air out.
If you have a top-loading washing machine, the problem may be with the rubber gasket around the tub. This gasket can also trap moisture and cause mold and mildew to grow.
Another possible source of smells is soap residue. If you don’t use the correct amount of detergent or if you have hard water, this can cause a soapy residue to build up in your machine. This residue can also lead to mold and mildew growth.
How to Clean a Washing Machine
Now that we’ve discussed some of the possible causes of smells in washing machines, let’s talk about how to clean them.
Cleaning a Front-Loading Washing Machine Gasket
In the debate between front vs top-load washing machines, the cleaning needs for top-load washers are definitely something to consider as they are more prone to mildew. If you have a front-loading washing machine, the first thing you should do is clean the door gasket. Remove any dirt or debris that may be caught in the seal. Then, using a cloth dampened with warm soapy water, wipe down the entire seal. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
If the grime doesn’t come off easily, you can try using a mild cleaning agent such as white vinegar or baking soda, or for really stubborn stains, you can try a bleach and water solution. Just be sure to rinse the area well when you’re done.
Once the door seal is clean, you can move on to cleaning the tub.
How to Clean the Tub On a Front-Load or Top-Load Washer
The tub can be cleaned by running an empty load with hot water, a half cup of baking soda, and a cup of distilled vinegar. Add the vinegar to the detergent dispenser, then, add the baking soda to the tub and run a hot water cycle. This will remove any dirt, grime, and detergent. If you have a top-loading washing machine, be sure to clean around the agitator as well.
For an extra deep clean, you can also add 1/2 cup of bleach to the tub and run a hot water cycle. Just be sure to open a window and ventilate the room while the cycle is running.
When your cycles are done wipe down the tub with a clean cloth.
Cleaning the Washing Machine Dispenser:
The detergent dispenser can also be a source of smells. To clean it, simply remove it and wash it with warm soapy water. If the dispenser is especially dirty, you can soak it in a solution of equal parts vinegar and water for 30 minutes, then scrub it with a toothbrush.
Once the dispenser is clean, be sure to rinse it well and dry it completely before putting it back in the machine.
And there you have it! These are just a few tips for cleaning a washing machine and getting rid of bad smells. By following these simple steps, you can keep your machine clean and smelling fresh and no longer wonder “why does my washing machine smell”? And remember for any appliance repair needs we’re one call away!
