A bad smell from the washing machine is a real nuisance. Not only does it give the laundry an unpleasant musty smell, but it can also signal the buildup of bacteria and mold. It’s also the first sign that the condition of the entire appliance is deteriorating, and the washing machine begins to work inefficiently. However, the problem can be eliminated with simple home remedies. Follow a few rules to enjoy fresh-smelling laundry and prolong the life of your washing machine.
Where does the bad smell in the washing machine come from? Daily shortcomings
You open the washing machine and a not-so-fresh aroma hits your nose? What’s worse, the washed clothes are also soaked with it? A bad smell in the washing machine is usually the result of several factors.
- Excessive moisture accumulation. After each wash, a small amount of water remains in the machine. If the door of the washing machine is left closed, a humid environment is created, which in turn promotes the growth of bacteria and mold.
- Excessive detergents. Some products, including softeners, leave residue that builds up over time in the nooks and crannies of the washing machine, such as the seals and the powder drawer. This residue provides an excellent breeding ground for bacteria.
- Clogged filter. Dirt remaining in the filter of the appliance can not only be a source of bad odor. They lead to blockages, making the washing machine run less efficiently and prone to breakdowns.
- Low wash temperature. Using only programs with low wash temperatures may not eliminate bacteria completely, which is also sometimes the cause of foul odor in the washing machine.
How to get rid of bad odor from the washing machine? Home remedies
There is no need to use specialized detergents. However, you need to take into account that the basis for solving the problem is not just to mask the unpleasant smell, but to regularly take care of the hygiene and cleanliness of the washing machine. To do this, it is worth developing simple habits.
After each wash, leave the door open. This will evaporate residual moisture, which will prevent the development of difficult to remove mold. Also regularly clean the rubber seals and the detergent drawer. At the same time, do not overdo the amount of laundry products – they will not benefit the quality of the laundry, and will only lead to the formation of stubborn deposits. Once a month, run the program at 90°C. The high temperature will help remove microorganisms and dirt lingering in the nooks and crannies.
How to clean your washing machine with baking soda?
Probably most of us have a supply of it in the kitchen cupboard. Baking soda is excellent at neutralizing unpleasant odors, making it an effective yet inexpensive way to bring your washing machine up to scratch.
Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drum. Then set an empty wash cycle – preferably on the highest possible temperature. Remember to open the door when the program is finished. This way you will not only combat the musty smell, but in the process remove detergent deposits and scale.
Tips
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Cleaning the washing machine with vinegar
Vinegar is another natural remedy that works very well against dirt, tarnish and mold. How to use it to clean the washing machine? Pour two glasses of vinegar into the drum. Again, run the program with a high temperature to neutralize bad odors. In addition, you can soak a soft cloth in vinegar and use it to wipe the rubber seals around the washing machine door, where bacteria and dirt often accumulate.
