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Why Your Washing Machine Smells, And How To Fix It

A washing machine has become an indispensable appliance at home. Most homes have both washers and dryers and some have just washers. Having a laundromat in your apartment might be a convenient option. But then nothing beats the convenience of investing in a reliable washing machine for your home. This allows you to save money in the long run (you can also make the purchase a bit easier on your wallet by using options like Afterpay). Modern washing machines are designed in a way that saves water and electricity. Therefore it can be an environment- friendly approach to use the washing machine. Also, having a washing machine saves the time you have to spend waiting in the laundromat queues. You can get your laundry done at a time of your convenience.

Washing machines

Having a good washing machine is not enough. Ensuring that you maintain it in its best condition is what matters the most. Even the most expensive washing machine needs some care regimens. When you notice that your clothes are not washed properly chances are that your washing machine needs to be checked. Even if your clothes come out clean there are other signs that might indicate that your machine needs repair. This includes having a smelly washing machine. This is one of the most common problems that most owners face. So, what are the reasons why your washing machine smells? How do you fix the problem? Regular cleaning of your washing machine is the one simple solution.

Why does your washing machine smell?

The growth of mildew and mold is common in spots that are warm and moist. Warmth and moisture are both abundantly available inside the washing machine. Sometimes water stains and scaly residues from water and detergent can also be the cause. Whenever there is wetness, detergent residues and other debris inside the washing machine there are chances of growth of bacteria. The lint trapped in the drum could also aggravate this.

What can you do about it?

  • To begin with, clean the drum and the rubber sealing of the machine. Do not leave any of the accessible spots including the insides of the door.
  • Vinegar and baking soda can also be used for cleaning the washing machine. While the vinegar handles the tough dirt baking soda can deodorize the machine.
  • Run an empty hot wash cycle. Most machines come with a service wash which is useful for this.
  • There are washing machine cleaner detergents and descalers in the market. Use them on a regular basis.
  • Check the inlet and outlet pipes for clogging. Sometimes the mildew inside the pipes can also be causing the smell.

Is there a permanent solution?

Remember that the above-mentioned cleaning routine is not a one-time solution. It simply gives you on the spot cleaning of the machine and eliminates the odour. Here are a few tips that can help prevent smells in your machine–

  • Once your washing cycle is done leave the washing machine door open for some time. Air drying can eliminate dampness and prevent the formation of mold. Remember to leave the detergent tray open as well. This is one spot that is often left out while cleaning the washing machine. Always keep the detergent drawer clean. Sometimes detergent residues and fabric softeners might be left out in the detergent tray after a wash cycle. Thoroughly wipe off the tray once the wash cycle is done. Attention should also be paid to the lint filter of your washing machine.
  • Do not allow clothes to stay in the washing machine for a long time. Putting a running cycle on hold or even leaving the clothes in the drum once the wash cycle is complete should be avoided. These can increase the chances of wetness causing mildew formation inside the machine and in the drum. It can lead to smells on your machine as well as on the clothes.
  • Regular cleaning of the washing machine either with store bought detergents or home based ingredients helps prevent the smell from coming back. This will also disinfect the machine and prevent allergies caused by bacteria acquired from a smelly and dirty washing machine.
  • Wash your pet clothes with care. If you are putting your pet’s blankets and other clothes in the same machine do a basic cleaning before putting them in the laundry. Dust off all the pet hair and fur using a lint roller or simply by dusting it out in the open. This helps prevent the fur and lint from clogging the filter.

The cleaning routine you choose depends on whether you have a front load washing machine or a top load machine. Each of these might require some extra steps in cleaning. Make sure that you thoroughly read and understand the washing machine manual. Different manufacturers might have their special recommendations when it comes to cleaning and maintenance of the washing machine.

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