If your front load washing machine smells bad, there’s no need to worry. There are several things you can do to get rid of the smell and keep your machine running smoothly. This is actually a pretty common problem, so you’re not the first to be looking for a solution. We have some tips on how to get rid of the smell and some tips on how to prevent the odor from occurring in the first place.
What To Do When Your Front Load Washing Machine Smells
Tired of that mildew smell every time you open your washer? Let’s figure out why your front load washing machine smells and how to fix it!
Why Does Your Washer Stink
There are a few different reasons why your washing machine stinks. Front load washers use less water than top loaders, and have more spaces for moisture to sit. This can lead to mildew, mold, and a build-up of excess detergent which can cause that tell-tale musty smell.
1. Detergent Buildup
There are a few things that could be causing the bad smell from your washer. The most common culprit is actually detergent buildup. Over time, detergent can build up on the door gasket, dispenser, and other areas of the machine. This can cause mold and mildew to grow, which will lead to that musty smell.
2. Sitting Water
Another possible cause of a smelly washer is water sitting in the machine. If water isn’t draining properly, it can start to stagnate and create an odor. This is usually caused by a blockage in the drain hose. Check the hose to make sure there’s nothing blocking it and that it’s not kinked. If you can’t find anything, give us a call and we’ll take a look.
3. Moldy Gasket
The gasket is the rubber seal around the door of the washer. It’s there to keep water from leaking out, but it can also be a breeding ground for mold and mildew. If you notice black or greenish-black growth on the gasket, that’s probably why your front load washing machine smells. Give it a good cleaning with a mixture of bleach and water. Be sure to rinse it well when you’re done.
How To Clean Your Front Load Washer
Now that we know what’s causing the smell, let’s talk about how to clean your washer. There are a few different things you can do to get rid of the odor and keep your machine running smoothly.
Clean the Gasket
As we mentioned before, the gasket is a common place for mold and mildew to grow. If you notice any black or greenish-black growth, give it a good cleaning with a mixture of bleach and water, or vinegar and water. Make sure to peel back the gasket and get everything out of the crevices. Rinse it well when you’re done and leave the door open to air it out. You can do this once a month as part of your regular cleaning routine.
Use Vinegar
One of the best ways to clean your washer is with vinegar. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and it’s great for getting rid of mold and mildew. Just add a cup of vinegar to your detergent dispenser and run a normal cycle. You can do this once a month to help prevent the buildup of detergent and mold.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is another great natural cleaning agent. It can help to absorb odors and it’s also great for getting rid of detergent buildup. Just add a cup of baking soda to your detergent dispenser and run a normal cycle. You can do this once a month, along with the vinegar, to help keep your washer clean and smelling fresh.
We hope these tips help you get rid of that musty smell from your washer! If you have any other questions, or if you need help with a washing machine repair, give us a call. And if you need any other appliance tips take a look at our blog!
