Have you ever opened your washer after a fresh cycle ends only to be greeted by a strong, mildewed odor? Or have you pulled out your freshly washed clothes only to find that they’re the source of a rancid scent? Well, this unpleasant odor is likely due to a mildew buildup in your washer, which will require some major cleaning. The method of cleaning and supplies needed are dependent on whether you have a top-load washer versus a front-load washer. Not to mention how frequently you should be cleaning your machines and all recommendations of the best cleaning products that have been proven to resolve the issues.
So, we’ll discuss what causes this mildew building, and how to fix them so you don’t have to rush out and buy a new set of appliances. Though cleaning a washer seems like a heavy task, with some simple tips and tricks, you’ll effectively eliminate all those odors and get your laundry as fresh and clean as ever!
Why Does the Washer Smell Bad?
More often than not, the rancid smells in washing machines are caused by a long accumulation of dirt, oil, and other bacteria from clothes. These of course only increase over time and eventually result in a foul odor. Washers can be extremely dirty on the inside, even if they don’t look the part! Bacteria and germs can and do grow in rubber seals and gaskets of the washers, which we can easily forget to clean.
How to Clean a Top-Load Washer
It should go without saying, but before you clean your washer, make sure it’s empty. Along with that, make sure there are no detergent or fabric softeners in any of the dispensers. If possible, use the “Self-Clean” feature on your washer. If your washer doesn’t have this feature, you’ll want to pick the cycle that has the largest load, longest time, and hottest water setting. With your cycle selected, the first thing you’ll do is add Bleach. Pour one quart of bleach into the washer once it's full of water. Next, close the lid as usual and let the machine agitate as normal for one minute.
After the minute, pause the cycle for an hour. This will allow the bleach and water to soak into the washer. If your washer does not allow you to pause the cycle, let the washer run its cycle and continue with the cleaning steps after it's done. After the hour, start the cycle again and leave it to finish. The machine should be empty of water and bleach. Once the cycle is done, you’ll now do a deep clean with vinegar.
> WARNING: NEVER combine BLEACH and VINEGAR. When mixed, this makes deadly chlorine gas <
Since the initial rinse removes the bleach, when you go clean with vinegar, they will not mix. However, for safety, you can run another cycle to make sure any trace of bleach is gone. The first thing you’ll want to do is heat one cup of vinegar on the stove or microwave, just until it’s hot, not boiling. From the washer, remove the dispensers, and soak them in hot water and a cup of vinegar for 20 minutes. If the dispensers are unable to be removed, you may opt in to pour the vinegar over the dispensers. After pouring or soaking, use a clean toothbrush or scrubbing brush, to scrub the dispensers clean.
After reinstalling the dispensers, repeat the steps originally performed. Either select the “Self-Clean” cycle or select the cycle that is the longest, hottest and heaviest load. From there add a quart of vinegar when the washer is full. For more cleaning power, add ½ cup of baking soda! The mixture will create a foamy reaction that will help scrub the inside of the washer. Then, let it work on its own for one minute, then pause the cycle to let it sit for an hour. Again, if you can't pause the cycle, let it run its course.
Once the hour is up, allow the cycle to finish. Then, take a dry clean cloth, microfiber is best, and wipe out the washer drum to ensure its fully dry. This will help prevent future mildew growth.
How to Clean a Front-Load Washer
Though a front-load washer does use less water than a top-load washer, its unique features can cause mildew to build up and create an unpleasant odor. Without regular cleaning, they will continuously harbor dirt, grime, and bacteria.
To clean your front-load washer, first, make sure it's empty and that the dispensers are free of detergent and fabric softener. Then, fill a spray bottle with hot water and soap. Next, open the washer’s door and strip back the rubber gasket and reveal the inner gasket. You’ll want to remove anything visible that may have been hiding such as coins, socks, buttons, or other objects. After that, spray the soapy solution in the gasket and wipe the inside with a dry microfiber cloth. Repeat this as needed until the gasket is fully clean.
If you come across Black Mold spots, use a cleaning toothbrush dipped in bleach to scrub the affected area until the mold is completely gone. If there’s a “Clean Washer” cycle, use it to clean the washer drum. If there isn’t a “Clean Washer” cycle, proceed by pouring two cups of vinegar into the dispensers. Then, add ⅓ cup of baking soda to the washer drum. Select the cycle that’s the longest, largest load, and hottest water. Then, let the cycle run until it's done, then wipe the inside of the drum with a dry cloth. Once done, leave the washer door and dispenser open and allow the machine to dry completely.
To maintain a clean, odor-free washer, it’s important to clean it on a regular basis. If your washer is frequently used, it’s recommended to clean it weekly or at least bi-weekly at a minimum. On the other hand, if your washer is not used as often, a monthly cleaning should be fine. If you keep an eye out for signs of mildew, mold, and the start of musty odors, you can stay on top of the cleaning and eliminate them before they form.
