Ever open your washing machine, expecting fresh laundry, only to be met with a musty, unpleasant odor? You’re not alone. A lingering mildew smell can quickly turn your clean clothes into something you’d rather not wear.
This common problem can frustrate anyone who values cleanliness and comfort. Understanding how to banish that smell is key to enjoying fresh laundry again.
In this article, we’ll walk you through effective steps and smart tips to get rid of mildew odor for good.
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How to Get Rid of Mildew Smell from Your Washing Machine: A Complete Guide
Why Does Your Washing Machine Smell Like Mildew?
A washing machine should leave your clothes smelling clean, but sometimes, you may be greeted with a musty, unpleasant odor instead. Mildew smells are usually a sign that moisture, detergent residue, or grime has built up inside your washer. This creates the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew, resulting in that signature “old damp towel” aroma.
Common culprits include:
– Residual moisture: Dampness remaining after cycles, especially with the door or lid closed.
– Detergent and fabric softener buildup: Excess products can accumulate in nooks and crannies.
– Hidden dirt or lint: Trapped debris can hold moisture and promote mildew.
– Neglected gaskets and seals: Especially in front-loading machines, rubber door seals can harbor mold.
The good news? With a few thorough cleaning routines and easy habits, you can banish those bad smells and keep your washer—and your laundry—fresh.
Step-by-Step: Eliminate Mildew Odors from Your Washing Machine
1. Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
You’ll need the following simple supplies:
– White vinegar
– Baking soda
– A soft brush or old toothbrush
– Microfiber cloths
– Mild dish soap (optional)
– Warm water
2. Deep Clean the Drum
Top-Loading Machines
- Empty the Drum: Remove all laundry.
- Add Vinegar: Pour 4 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum.
- Run the Hottest, Longest Cycle: Let the washer fill and agitate for a few minutes, then pause or stop the cycle to soak for an hour. Finish the wash cycle.
- Run a Second Cycle with Baking Soda: Sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda into the drum and run another hot cycle.
Front-Loading Machines
- Pour 2 Cups of Vinegar into the Drum.
- Run a Hot, Empty Cycle: For an added boost, add ½ cup baking soda to the detergent tray.
- Wipe Down Drum and Gasket: When the cycle finishes, use a microfiber cloth to wipe inside the drum and around the rubber gasket. An old toothbrush helps clean crevices.
3. Clean the Detergent Dispenser and Trays
- Remove any trays or dispensers you can.
- Soak them in warm, soapy water for 15 minutes.
- Scrub away leftover detergent using a brush.
- Dry thoroughly before reinserting.
4. Clean Around the Door, Seal, and Gasket
Especially for front-loaders:
– Pull back the rubber seal to check for trapped debris, lint, or moisture.
– Wipe thoroughly with a vinegar-dampened cloth.
– For stubborn residue or mold, make a paste of baking soda and water, scrub gently, then wipe clean.
5. Wipe Down the Exterior
Don’t forget the outer surfaces! A quick wipe with a damp cloth keeps the entire appliance clean.
6. Address the Filter and Drain (If Accessible)
Some washers have lint filters or drain pumps that can hide mold or bits of fabric:
– Refer to your washer’s manual for location and removal instructions.
– Clean thoroughly and replace.
Best Practices: Keep Mildew Smells Away
Once you’ve banished the odor, a few easy habits will stop it from coming back:
- Leave the Door/Lid Open After Each Wash: This is the single most important step. Air flow prevents moisture buildup.
- Wipe the Drum and Seal Regularly: After each use or once a week.
- Use the Correct Amount of Detergent: Too much creates excess residue. High-efficiency (HE) machines need HE detergent.
- Run a Monthly “Maintenance Wash”: Cycle your washer empty with hot water, vinegar, and/or baking soda.
- Clean Dispensers and Trays Routinely: Rinse once a month.
- Dry Gaskets and Seals Thoroughly: After the last load of the day, run a towel around seals and rubber edges.
- Remove Laundry Promptly: Don’t let wet clothes sit.
Troubleshooting: Persistent Odors
If you’ve followed all the steps and your washing machine still smells, try these tips:
- Inspect for Standing Water: Check inside and under the drum or in the detergent tray. Unusual puddles may indicate a drainage problem.
- Clean the Drain Hose: Mold can form inside the hose itself.
- Examine for Hidden Mold: Occasionally, mildew forms behind panels or under agitators. For major disassembly, you may need professional help.
- Look for Leaks: Persistent dampness under or around the washer should be investigated.
Benefits of a Clean Washing Machine
Keeping your washer fresh isn’t just about eliminating odors. You’ll also enjoy:
– Cleaner, better-smelling laundry.
– Longer-lasting clothes (no mildew stains!).
– Reduced risk of mold-related health issues (especially for sensitive individuals).
– Improved washer efficiency and longevity.
– Savings on unnecessary service calls.
Challenges and What to Watch Out For
- Neglecting hidden spaces: Don’t forget the detergent tray, filters, and gaskets.
- Using harsh chemical cleaners: Stick to gentle solutions like vinegar and baking soda to avoid damaging washer parts.
- Not following regular maintenance: Only deep cleaning when you notice a smell lets mildew build up.
- Using too much detergent: More soap doesn’t mean cleaner laundry—just more residue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why does my washing machine get smelly so often?
Mildew thrives in damp, warm environments. Washing machines, especially front loaders, often retain moisture and detergent residue, which together create a perfect place for smells to develop. Regular cleaning and good habits like leaving the door open after washes will help prevent odor.
2. Can I use bleach instead of vinegar to clean my washer?
Yes, you can use bleach as an alternative, but be careful: bleach is a strong chemical and can damage rubber seals and gaskets over time. If you choose to use bleach, always run an extra rinse cycle to remove any residue before doing laundry.
3. Is vinegar bad for washing machines?
Vinegar is generally safe for both top- and front-loading washing machines when used in moderation. It effectively removes soap scum, mineral deposits, and mildew. However, using extremely high concentrations or cleaning with vinegar too frequently can potentially wear down rubber components over many years. Monthly cleaning is safe for most situations.
4. How often should I clean my washing machine?
A basic cleaning with vinegar or a specialty cleaner should be done at least once a month. For high-usage households, bi-weekly may be better. Wiping down the drum, gasket, and detergent tray after every few washes will also keep odors away.
5. My laundry still comes out musty even after cleaning the washer. What else can I try?
If your washer is fresh but clothes still smell, try cleaning laundry baskets and hampers, check for damp areas in your laundry room, and ensure you are drying clothes promptly. Also, use the proper amount of detergent for your machine and washing load.
In Summary
A musty, mildew smell in your washing machine is a common but entirely fixable problem. By deep-cleaning the drum, trays, and gasket and adopting simple daily habits—like leaving the door open and wiping down seals—you’ll keep odors at bay for good. Regular maintenance not only prevents that unpleasant smell but also helps your machine run better and keeps your laundry fresher every time.
Ready to enjoy that “just washed” scent again? Say goodbye to mildew with these proven steps and take the simple habits forward—your nose and your clothes will thank you!