How To Clean Musty Smell From Washing Machine
Stop the Stink: How To Clean Musty Smell From Washing Machine
Alright, let’s cut the crap. Your washing machine smells like a forgotten gym bag. Honestly, it’s embarrassing. That musty, mildew funk? It’s a common problem. But you want to know how to clean musty smell from washing machine, and I’ll tell you. No fluff. Just the facts.
The thing is, these machines are damp. They’re breeding grounds for the gross stuff. Mold, mildew, whatever you waa call it. It clings to the seals, the drum, even the detergent dispenser. You gotta hit it hard.
The Pre-Game Ritual: Prep Your Machine
Before you even think about cleaning, do this: Leave the door WIDE OPEN. Like, all the time when it’s not in use. This is non-negotiable. You want airflow. Remember that time I left my old Whirlpool door shut for three days in July? Disaster. Never again.
Step 1: The Deep Clean Cycle
First, get yourself some distilled white vinegar. Yeah, the cheap stuff. Pour a cup or two directly into the detergent dispenser. Or, if you’re brave, straight into the drum. Run the machine on its hottest, longest cycle. Empty. Let it rip.
Step 2: Bleach It Out (Carefully)
This is where we get serious. After the vinegar wash, run another hot cycle. This time, add about half a cup of bleach to the dispenser. Do NOT mix vinegar and bleach. Seriously, you’ll gas yourself. I learned that the hard way. Trust me.
Step 3: The Nitty-Gritty Scrub
Now, get in there. Wipe down the rubber door seal. Use a 1:1 solution of water and vinegar or bleach. Get into all those little folds. Pull the dispenser drawer out. Soak it in hot, soapy water. Scrub it clean. Don’t forget the lint filter. That thing’s a horror show.
Watch: How to Get Rid of the Mildew Smell in Your Washer | All …
Step 4: Dry It Out. For Real.
Another empty hot cycle. Then, leave the door open again. For days, if you have to. Until it’s bone dry. You gotta break the cycle of dampness.
Watch: HOW TO CLEAN YOUR WASHING MACHINE! (Quick & Easy!)
When Things Get Really Ugly: Mold & Mildew Fighters
Sometimes, vinegar and bleach aren’t enough. You need something stronger. Look for washing machine cleaning tablets. Brands like Affresh sell ’em. They work. Cost about $10 for a pack of 6. Worth it.
Watch: How to Quickly Fix a Smelly Washing Machine | Easy Tips and …
| Agent | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Vinegar | Cheap, readily available | Doesn’t kill all spores, smell lingers briefly |
| Bleach | Strong disinfectant | Harsh, can damage seals if overused, dangerous if mixed |
| Cleaning Tablets | Effective, specifically formulated | More expensive, need to purchase |
Preventative Maintenance: Keep It Fresh
Leave the door open. Always. Use the right amount of detergent. Too much soap leaves residue. Run a cleaning cycle monthly. Use hot water whenever possible. It kills more funk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my washing machine smell like mildew even after cleaning?
You probably didn’t get it all. The mold and mildew hide deep in the internal components, hoses, and pump. Or, you’re not letting it dry out properly between uses. The cycle of dampness continues.
Can you put vinegar in your washing machine to get rid of mildew?
Yes. Vinegar is a great first step. It helps break down residue and kill some mildew. Use it on a hot cycle. But for serious infestations, it might not be enough on its own. Sometimes you need a follow-up.
How often should I clean my washing machine?
Ideally, once a month. If you do a lot of laundry or live in a humid climate, maybe every two to three weeks. Better safe than stinky.
What’s the best way to clean the washing machine door seal?
Pull it back and scrub with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar, or water and bleach. Get into every crevice. A toothbrush works wonders here. Then wipe dry.
Can I use baking soda to clean my washing machine?
Baking soda is great for deodorizing, but it’s not a strong enough disinfectant for stubborn mildew. You can add about half a cup to the drum along with vinegar for an extra boost, but don’t rely on it solely for mold removal.
