Banishing Odors: How to Clean a Smelly Washing Machine
Asmellywashingmachinecanmakethetaskofdoinglaundrylesspleasantandleaveclothes with an unpleasant odor. The accumulation of detergent residue, bacteria, and mold can cause a foul smell to emanate from the machine. In this article, we will provide you with effectivemethodstodeepcleanandeliminateodorsfromyourwashingmachine,restoring freshnesstoyourlaundryroutine.
Inspect for Mold or Mildew:
Checktherubberseal,detergentdispenser,andotherpartsofthewashingmachineforsigns of mold or mildew. These areas are prone to moisture buildup and can harbor bacteria, causing unpleasant smells. If you spot any visiblemold, followthestepsmentioned in the previousarticleoncleaningthewashingmachinetoremoveit.
Clean the Filter:
Manywashingmachineshaveafilterorlinttrapthatcanbecomecloggedwithlint,debris, and residue, contributing to the smell. Locate the filter (consult your machine's manual if needed)andremoveanydebrisorbuildup.Rinsethefilterunderrunningwaterandletit drybeforereinstallingit.
Run a Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar:
Vinegar is a natural and effective cleaner that helps eliminate odors and disinfect the washingmachine.Startbyfillingthemachinewithhotwater.Addtwocupsofwhitevinegar tothewaterandallowthemachinetoagitateforafewminutes.Pausethecycleandletthe vinegar-watermixturesitinthemachineforaboutanhourtobreakdownanybuildupand killbacteria.
Scrub the Drum and Agitator (If Applicable):
Whilethevinegarmixturesits,takeasoftbrushorspongeandscrubtheinteriorofthedrum andtheagitator(ifapplicable).Paycloseattentiontoanyvisiblestains,residue,ordirt.Use a mixture of water and vinegar or a mild detergent solution for stubborn stains. Rinse thoroughlyafterward.
Resume the Cycle and Rinse:
Afterthevinegarmixturehashadtimetowork,resumethehotwatercycle.Letitcomplete its full cycle, including the wash, rinse, and spin cycles. The vinegar will help remove any remaining residue and odors. If your washing machine has a self-cleaning or deodorizing cycle,youcanalsousethatfunctionatthisstage.
Deodorize with Baking Soda:
Once the vinegar cycle is complete, sprinkleone cup of baking soda into the drum. Run a shortcyclewithhotwatertodistributethebakingsodaandneutralizeanyremainingodors. Bakingsodaactsasanaturaldeodorizerandhelpsabsorbunpleasantsmells.
Clean the Exterior:
While the machine is running the baking soda cycle, take the opportunity to clean the exteriorofthewashingmachine.Wipedownthecontrolpanel,buttons,andthetopsurface withadampclothsoakedinamilddetergentsolution.Payattentiontocornersandcrevices wheredirtcanaccumulate.Rinsetheclothandwipeagainwithcleanwatertoremoveany soapresidue.
Dry the Interior:
Afterthebakingsodacycleiscomplete,leavethewashingmachinedoororlidopentoallow aircirculationandfacilitatedrying.Thisstephelpspreventmoisturebuildupandthegrowth ofbacteriaormold.Letthedrumandinteriorsurfacesairdrycompletelybeforeusingthe machineagain.
Regular Maintenance:
To prevent future odors, establish a regular maintenance routine. Keep the drum and detergentdispensercleanbywipingthemdownaftereachuse.Leavethedoororlidopen whenthemachineisnotinusetoallowittoairout.Considerusinglessdetergenttoavoid excessivebuildupandusinga washing machine cleanerperiodicallytokeepthemachine freshandodor-free.