Banish the washer stench: how to get washer smell out for good

The unpleasant scent emanating from your washing machine can be a persistent annoyance, leaving your clothes with an undesirable odor. Fortunately, there are effective solutions to eliminate this issue and restore your washer to its pristine condition. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the causes of washer smell and provide step-by-step instructions on how to get rid of it for good.

Understanding the Causes of Washer Smell

Before addressing the problem, it’s essential to understand what causes washer smell. Several factors contribute to this issue, including:

• Mold and mildew: Moisture and detergent residue accumulate in the washer, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew. These microorganisms thrive in dark, damp environments and release unpleasant odors.
• Bacteria: Bacteria can also multiply in the washer, especially in areas where moisture lingers. They feed on organic matter, such as detergent and fabric softener, producing foul smells.
• Hard water: Minerals in hard water can form scale buildup on the washer’s interior, providing a surface for bacteria and mold to grow.
• Overloading: Overcrowding the washer can prevent clothes from rinsing and draining properly, leaving behind detergent residue and odors.
• Infrequent use: Infrequent washing allows mold and mildew to accumulate, exacerbating the smell problem.

Step-by-Step Guide to Eliminating Washer Smell

Now that we have identified the causes, let’s explore the steps you can take to get rid of washer smell:

1. Clean the Washer Tub

• Run an empty cycle with bleach: Pour 2-4 cups of chlorine bleach into the washer and run a hot water cycle without clothes. Bleach kills mold and mildew and disinfects the tub.
• Use a commercial washer cleaner: Purchase a commercial washer cleaner specifically designed to remove odors and buildup. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.

2. Clean the Dispenser Drawers

• Remove and soak drawers: Remove the detergent and fabric softener drawers and soak them in a solution of hot water and bleach or vinegar.
• Wipe down drawers and compartments: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the drawers and the compartments where they fit.

3. Clean the Door Gasket and Seal

• Wipe down gasket and seal: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the rubber gasket around the washer door and the seal between the door and the tub.
• Remove buildup: If there is significant buildup, use a toothbrush to gently remove it.

4. Run a Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar

• Pour vinegar into the washer: Add 2-4 cups of white vinegar to the washer and run a hot water cycle without clothes. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer.

5. Run a Hot Water Cycle with Baking Soda

• Add baking soda to the washer: Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the washer and run a hot water cycle without clothes. Baking soda neutralizes odors and helps remove buildup.

6. Dry the Washer

• Leave door and lid open: After running the cleaning cycles, leave the washer door and lid open to allow it to air out and dry.
• Use a fan or dehumidifier: If possible, place a fan or dehumidifier in the laundry room to help dry the washer faster.

7. Maintain Regular Cleaning

• Run a cleaning cycle monthly: To prevent odor buildup, run a cleaning cycle with bleach or a commercial washer cleaner once a month.
• Leave door and lid open after use: Always leave the washer door and lid open after use to allow it to dry out.
• Wipe down washer exterior: Regularly wipe down the washer’s exterior with a damp cloth to remove dust and spills.

Additional Tips for Preventing Washer Smell

• Use the correct amount of detergent: Avoid using too much detergent, as it can leave behind residue that attracts bacteria and mold.
• Don’t overload the washer: Overcrowding prevents clothes from rinsing and draining properly, leading to odor buildup.
• Don’t leave wet clothes in the washer: Remove clothes from the washer promptly after the cycle ends to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Wash bedding regularly: Bedding can harbor bacteria and mold, so wash it regularly in hot water.
• Use a front-loading washer: Front-loading washers use less water than top-loading washers, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth.

The Bottom Line: A Fresh-Smelling Washer for a Pleasant Laundry Experience

By following these steps and incorporating the additional tips, you can effectively eliminate washer smell and maintain a fresh-smelling washer for a more pleasant laundry experience. Remember to clean your washer regularly, leave it open to dry, and avoid overloading it to prevent odor buildup in the future.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Why does my washer smell like mildew?
A: Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments, and the washer tub, especially if it’s not dried properly, provides an ideal breeding ground for these microorganisms.

Q: Can I use vinegar and baking soda together to clean my washer?
A: Yes, you can use vinegar and baking soda together to clean your washer. Run a hot water cycle with vinegar first, followed by a hot water cycle with baking soda.

Q: How often should I clean my washer?
A: It’s recommended to run a cleaning cycle with bleach or a commercial washer cleaner once a month to prevent odor buildup.