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If your washing machine smells, it can be really off-putting every time you open the door to do a load of laundry. And, if the smell is bad enough, it can actually start to transfer to your clothes!
No one wants to wear smelly laundry, so it’s important to keep your washing machine smelling fresh. Luckily, there are a few simple things you can do to deodorize your washing machine and keep it smelling its best. In this blog post, we’ll share our top tips for keeping your washing machine clean and free of unpleasant odors.
Table of Contents
What causes the smell?
One of the main causes of a smelly washing machine is a build-up of laundry detergent, fabric softener, and minerals from hard water. When these substances are not properly rinsed away, they can start to form a slimy film on the inside of your machine.
This film provides the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow, which can cause that musty smell. Another common cause of the smell is leaving wet laundry in the machine for too long. This creates an ideal environment for bacteria to grow, which can also lead to that musty smell.
How to clean your washing machine
Cleaning a washing machine is pretty easy to do. Just follow these steps and your machine will be fresh and smelling great in no time.
– Start by running an empty load with hot water and a cup of vinegar. This will help to remove any build-up that may be causing the odor.
– Once the cycle is finished, wipe down the inside of the machine with a damp cloth. Be sure to get all the nooks and crannies, including the door seal and detergent dispenser.
– Next, run another empty load with hot water and a cup of baking soda. This will help to neutralize any remaining odors.
– Finally, wipe down the inside of the machine one more time with a damp cloth.
That’s it! Just four simple steps and your washing machine will be clean and smelling fresh again.
How to prevent your washing machine from becoming smelly
Your washing machine should be kept clean and free of any build-up, including soap scum, detergent residue, and hard water deposits. If these substances are not removed, they can lead to your washing machine becoming smelly. To prevent the smell from occuring, you should:
– Clean the door seals and gasket regularly with a damp cloth. Pay special attention to the area where the rubber seal meets the metal on the door.
– Leave the door open after each use to allow the washing machine to air out.
– Wipe down the inside of the washer tub with a microfiber cloth after each use. Be sure to also clean around the agitator.
– Run an empty load with bleach once a month to sanitize the washer tub and remove any lingering smells.
Pros of deodorizing your washing machine
Deodorizing has a number of pros that can help keep your laundry area smelling fresh and clean. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Prevents Mold and Mildew – Deodorizing your washer helps to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, both of which can cause musty odors in your laundry room.
- Eliminates Bad Smells – If your washing machine is starting to smell bad, deodorizing it can help eliminate the source of the odor. This is especially helpful if you have pets that use the laundry room as their bathroom.
- Keeps Laundry Room Smelling Fresh – In addition to helping eliminate bad smells, deodorizing your washing machine can also help keep your laundry room smelling fresh and clean. This is a great way to keep your home smelling its best.
- Easy to Do – Deodorizing is actually quite easy to do. There are a number of commercial products available that can help you get the job done quickly and easily.
Cons of deodorizing your washing machine
Deodorizing your washing machine may seem like a good idea, but there are some cons to doing so. For one, it can be difficult to remove all of the deodorant from it, which can leave residue behind that can actually make your clothes smell worse. Additionally, deodorizing your washing machine can also make it less effective at cleaning your clothes, as the deodorant can interfere with the detergent.
Another con of deodorizing is that you may be using harsh chemicals. Many commercial deodorizers contain chemicals that can be harmful to your health
If you do decide to do it, be sure to follow the directions carefully and completely remove all traces of the deodorant before using the washing machine again.
Tips for using a washing machine
If your washing machine is giving you trouble, here are a few tips to help get it back on track.
- Check the manual. Your washing machine likely came with a manual when you first bought it. This manual can be a great resource for troubleshooting issues you may be having with your machine.
- Clean the machine regularly. Over time, it can become full of dirt and grime. This build-up can lead to problems with the machine’s performance. To keep your machine running smoothly, be sure to clean it on a regular basis according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Inspect the hoses and connections regularly. Another common issue that can lead to problems with your washing machine is leaks in the hoses or connections. Be sure to inspect these regularly and replace any worn or damaged parts as necessary.
- Call a professional if you’re still having problems. If you’ve tried all of the above tips and you’re still having trouble with your washing machine, it’s time to call in a professional for help. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose and fix any underlying issues that may be causing problems with your machine.
Conclusion
If you have a smelly machine, don’t despair! With a little bit of elbow grease, it will be smelling like new in no time!