An unpleasant smell in the washing machine is a common problem.
Therefore, it is worth examining the main causes and simple methods of elimination that anyone can easily repeat.
Checking the drainage system
The washing machine has a drain pipe and a coarse filter. The most interesting thing is that most people do not even open the operating instructions.
It is important to note a key fact: the coarse filter must be cleaned once a month during active washing.
If you don't do this, the filter will stop letting water through, which is why mold will start to appear inside the washing machine. Also, over time, the water drain pipe may become clogged. These are the things you should start fighting the unpleasant odor with.
Service wash
Most people wash their clothes at 40 degrees. This mode seems comfortable and the fastest. But what about mold and mildew, which eventually appears in any washing machine? Mold can be removed by washing once a month at the maximum temperature.
During the service wash, you can add to the drum:
- Soda and vinegar. Soda is mixed with water, the solution is poured into the detergent compartment. 1-2 cups of vinegar are poured directly into the drum.
- You can pour vinegar into the conditioner compartment. Of course, during the washing process there will be an unpleasant smell from the vinegar, but it will disappear fairly quickly.
- Bleach. Important rule: if bleach is used, other detergents cannot be used. After using bleach, it is recommended to run the rinse cycle several times.
There is nothing complicated about service washing. And if you take this habit as a basis, then there should be no problems with unpleasant odor.
Cleaning all seals
Mold and mildew most often form on rubber seals. The simplest solution: mix vinegar and water in equal proportions, put on rubber gloves and thoroughly wipe all seals. The method works, but it is difficult to completely get rid of mold, as it can appear in hard-to-reach places.
If after cleaning the mold remains or the cuff is damaged, it is worth considering its complete replacement. If the model of the washing machine is old, you can replace the seals yourself, there is nothing complicated about it.
The right washing powder
Sometimes the cause of mold is a washing powder that is not suitable for a certain model, or the selected washing mode does not match. It is worth trying to change the washing powder and see the result.
Drying the drum
If the drum is dry, mold will not start to appear inside. Here is a simple tip: after washing, the doors should always be kept open so that the equipment dries faster. Also, do not put things directly into the washing machine, such a habit always leads to the appearance of an unpleasant smell. Special containers should be used to store dirty things.
