Your washing machine works hard to keep your clothes fresh, but over time, it can accumulate dirt, residue, and odors. Regular cleaning is key to keeping it running smoothly and lasting longer. The best part? It’s a simple job that you can tackle quickly and easily. Follow this step-by-step guide to get your washing machine looking and smelling great in no time.
Why Does My Washing Machine Smell?
If you’ve noticed a foul odor coming from your washing machine, you’re not alone. Despite its primary job of cleaning your clothes, your washing machine can sometimes develop an unpleasant smell.
Below are some of the most common reasons your washing machine might develop an unwelcome odor:
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Mold and Mildew
Moisture can easily get trapped in the drum, door gasket (especially in front-load washers), or detergent dispenser, creating the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. If you’re noticing a musty or damp odor, this is likely the culprit.
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Detergent Residue Buildup
Using too much detergent can cause residue to accumulate in the drum, hoses, and dispenser. This buildup can trap dirt and bacteria, leading to a sour or stagnant odor.
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Blocked Drain or Filter
Lint, debris, or small clothing items can clog the drain pump filter or the drainage hose, causing stagnant water to build up and emit a rotting or sewage-like smell.
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Standing Water in the Machine
If water isn’t draining properly after a wash cycle, it can become stagnant and start to smell swampy or musty. This is often due to a partial blockage in the drainage system or a malfunctioning pump.
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Bacterial Growth in the Detergent Drawer
Residual detergent or fabric softener left in the dispenser can become a hotspot for bacteria and mold growth, especially if the drawer isn’t cleaned regularly. This can result in a chemical or sour odor.
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Dirty Door Seal (Front-Loaders)
The rubber seal around the door can trap water, lint, and detergent residue, creating a breeding ground for mold. This often leads to a musty or moldy smell, which is most noticeable when you open the door.
How to Clean a Washing Machine
Regularly cleaning your washing machine not only extends its life but also ensures that your laundry comes out fresh and clean every time. In this section, we’ll guide you through simple and effective steps for cleaning your washing machine.
Front-Loading
Supplies needed:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Microfiber cloth or sponge
- Toothbrush (optional)
- Washing machine cleaner (optional)
Step-by-step cleaning guide:
1. Clean the Door Gasket
Pull back the gasket, remove debris, and wipe with vinegar. Use a toothbrush for stubborn spots if necessary.
2. Clean the Detergent Dispenser
Remove the dispenser, soak it in warm, soapy water, and scrub away residue. Wipe the compartment and reassemble.
3. Run a Vinegar Cycle
Pour 2 cups of vinegar into the drum and run a hot water cycle.
4. Run a Baking Soda Cycle
Sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drum and run another hot cycle.
5. Wipe and Air Out
Wipe the drum and door with a microfiber cloth. Leave the door open to air out.
6. For Extra Credit: Clean the Drain Pump Filter
Find the drain pump filter, remove debris, and reassemble.
7. Ongoing Maintenance
Wipe down after each use and run a vinegar and baking soda cycle monthly.
Top-Loading
Supplies needed:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Microfiber cloth or sponge
- Toothbrush (optional)
Step-by-step cleaning guide:
1. Clean the Agitator and Drum
Remove any visible debris from the agitator and drum. Wipe them down with a cloth dampened with vinegar.
2. Clean the Detergent and Fabric Softener Dispensers
Remove the dispensers if possible, soak in warm, soapy water, and scrub away any buildup. Wipe the dispenser compartments and reassemble.
3. Run a Vinegar Cycle
Pour 4 cups of vinegar into the drum. Allow it to sit for an hour, then run a hot water cycle to clean and deodorize.
4. Run a Baking Soda Cycle
Sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda into the drum and run another hot water cycle to neutralize odors and remove residue.
5. Wipe and Air Out
After the cycle, wipe the drum, lid, and agitator with a microfiber cloth. Leave the lid open to air out.
6. For Extra Credit: Clean the Drain Pump Filter
If your machine has a drain pump filter, locate it, clean out any debris, and reassemble.
7. Ongoing Maintenance
Wipe the drum and agitator after each use, and run a vinegar and baking soda cycle every 2-3 months.
How Long Do Washing Machines Last?
A typical washing machine will last 10-13 years on average. The lifespan will depend on a number of factors, including:
- Brand and quality
- Frequency of use
- Maintenance
- Type of machine (top-load washing machines tend to last longer than front-load washing machines)
With proper care and maintenance, your washing machine could last even longer.
Washing Machine Maintenance Tips
Follow these maintenance tips to ensure your washing machine runs efficiently, lasts longer, and remains odor-free.
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Clean the Drum Regularly
For front-load machines, wipe down the door gasket after each use to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Monthly, run an empty hot water cycle with vinegar and baking soda to remove detergent residue and bacteria.
For top-load machines, run an empty hot water cycle with vinegar and baking soda every few months to clean the drum and hoses.
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Leave the Door Open After Use
After each wash, leave the door or lid open to allow the interior to dry out. This will prevent moisture from becoming trapped – the leading cause of mold and unpleasant odors.
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Use the Right Detergent
Use only high-efficiency (HE) detergent for front-loaders, as it produces less suds, reducing the risk of residue build-up.
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Avoid Overloading
Overloading the machine puts strain on the motor and bearings, shortening the machine’s lifespan.
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Regularly Clean the Detergent Dispenser
Remove and clean the detergent dispenser to remove accumulated detergent and fabric softener residue.
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Check and Clean the Filter
Some washing machines have a lint filter or trap that should be cleaned periodically. This helps maintain water flow and prevents blockages, which can reduce efficiency and lead to mechanical issues.
Washing Machine Plumbing in Northern Virginia
If you’re having trouble with your washing machine, call or schedule an appointment today with your friendly neighborhood plumbers at Kiddco Plumbing!
