You should know how to get rid of mildew smell in washing machine in case you encounter such scenarios. There are instances when there is a musty and mildew smell in your washers instead of the usual fresh-smelling scent of laundry.
If you notice a foul odor during laundry day, you will need to take action immediately. Using it while there is still a mildew smell is indeed counterproductive.
No doubt, you will need a game plan to beat that stink.
Why Does Your Washer Smell Like Mildew?
When your washing machine has a mildew smell, there are several potential sources.
The washer generally takes in the grease, grime, and dirt of your clothes. Most get drained away, but not all.
After countless laundry loads, there will be soap and detergent residue. They contribute to the build-up of bacteria, mildew, and mold.
You will need to remove these substances if you wish to use your washer. Here is an article on how to get rid of mold in washing machine if you want to know more.
The gasket’s rubber of most front loaders and the washer tub of top loaders are often where they pester and take residence. The longer these substances sit, the more they accumulate and develop, which then results in a mildew smell.
Ways To Eliminate The Mildew Smell Out Of Your Washer
Your washer’s insides could potentially serve as a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Finding mildew in your washer clearly shows that it needs a deep and thorough cleaning.
It just so happens that front loader machines require a slightly different cleaning approach than top loaders.
Front Loading Washing Machine
Here are three easy and simple steps you can follow to eliminate the mildew smell from your front loader!
Step #1. Clean the gasket
Using a towel or rag, wipe down the gasket of the washer. You may use mildew cleaner spray, hot soapy water, or bleach mixture for this.
If you are using the spray or bleach, make sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves to prevent skin irritation.
You might notice slimy residue or debris around the gasket. These are typical sources of mildew smell in front loaders.
If the residue persists or is located at hard-to-reach places, you can use an old toothbrush to scrub them off.
Step #2. Target the dispensers next
Soap residue and even the smallest amount of stagnant water can make your dispensers smell. Fortunately, soap dispensers are easy to clean.
For removable dispensers, you can clean them thoroughly with hot soapy water. Just wipe them down with soapy water if you cannot remove them.
You can use a pipe cleaner or spray bottle to reach the nooks and crannies. Aside from hot soapy water, you may also use a bleach or vinegar solution.
Step #3. Run a clean cycle
Some washers have a tub cleaning cycle.
For this, you can use a commercial washing machine cleaner, a cup of baking soda, a cup of bleach, or ½ cup of enzymatic dishwasher detergent. Choose only one of the following.
Run the cycle entirely, and if the smell remains after the cycle, try another one. If the smell persists, use another cleaning additive.
For instance, if you used bleach for the first two rounds, you can switch to baking soda or washer cleaner next.
Top Loading Washing Machine
For top loaders, the mildew smell typically comes from the tub area. You can remove the mildew odor using simple ingredients.
For more explanation, here is a guide on how to get rid of mildew smell naturally. One of the typical ingredients you can use is white vinegar.
Step #1. Add water to the tub area.
Step #2. Set up the water temperature to the hottest or highest possible setting.
Step #3. Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the tub.
Step #4. If possible, add about 3-10 drops of Tea Tree Oil, an anti-bacterial oil.
Step #5. Run the washer through a complete cycle.
Step #6. With a vinegar-dampened sponge or rag, wipe down any residue.
Step #7. Do this monthly.
How To Prevent Mildew Smell
While the cleaning tips above can eliminate the mildew smell, it is not guaranteed that the foul odor would not make a comeback. For a long-term solution, it is best to fall into the habit of checking and cleaning your washer.
Avoid using too much detergent
Ironically enough, dumping extra detergent would not make it smell good. It leads to a stinkier washer.
The excess detergent can lead to the build-up of a rancid odor.
On the topic of detergents, you should use a suitable detergent for your washer type. Using regular detergents will create more suds than your washer can handle.
For front loaders, liquid fabric softeners are off-limits.
Remove clothes immediately
You must remove the load and clothes when the machine finishes its cycle. Leaving wet laundry inside can lead to mold and mildew growth. It results in a foul odor.
Clean it regularly
Clean the washer tub and gasket regularly for front loaders. Wipe down the interior, as well. Do this regularly to make sure there is no mildew and mold build-up.
Vinegar and paper towels would kill bacteria that are starting to grow inside. Set a cleaning routine to maintain the cleanliness of your washer.
It is to keep the washer clean and ensure that the machine performs the way it should.
Conclusion
There is more than one way on how to get rid of mildew smell in washing machine. Apply the ways and steps on the guide above to ensure that your washer remains clean and smell-free for your next laundry day!