If you notice that your washing machine is emitting an unpleasant odor, do not rush to call a technician or buy expensive cleaning products.
Perhaps the cause lies in simple contamination or mold, which can be eliminated with the help of affordable and effective folk remedies.
In this article, you will learn how to quickly and easily remove odor from your washing machine and make it fresh and clean.
Why does the washing machine smell?
There are several possible reasons why your washing machine might smell.
- Incorrect operation. If you close the door of the machine immediately after washing, without letting it dry, or store dirty laundry in it, you create a favorable environment for the development of bacteria and mold. It is also important to regularly clean the detergent drawer and the rubber door seal from powder residue, water and dirt.
- Poor quality or excess detergents. If you use low-quality powder or conditioner, or add more than necessary, they can settle on the walls of the drum and tubes, forming a soapy film. Over time, it begins to rot and smell.
- Clogged drain hose or drain. If dirty water can't drain completely from the machine, it can remain in the hose or pipe, causing a musty smell. It can also cause water to overflow through the detergent drawer or door.
What products will help get rid of the smell?
To remove the smell from the washing machine, you do not need to buy special chemical cleaning products. You can use the products that you have at home and that will not harm your equipment. Here are some examples of such products.
- Vinegar. This is a universal cleaning and disinfecting agent for various surfaces. Vinegar kills bacteria and mold, dissolves grease and plaque, and eliminates odors. To rid your washing machine of unpleasant odors, pour 2 cups of vinegar into the drum and turn on the longest and hottest wash cycle without laundry. Then wipe the rubber seal and powder tray with a vinegar rag. If you smell a strong vinegar smell after cleaning, do another wash with clean water or with the addition of fabric softener.
- No laundry mode. After this, you need to wipe the rubber cuff and the detergent tray with a cloth soaked in vinegar.
- Soda. This is another effective and safe means for cleaning the washing machine. Soda neutralizes acids, softens water, removes odors and bleaches the laundry. To clean the washing machine from the smell, you need to pour 4 tablespoons of soda into the powder tray and run a high-temperature wash without laundry with the rinse function.
- Citric acid. This product will not only help get rid of the smell, but also scale on the heating element and other parts of the machine. Citric acid dissolves limescale deposits, removes grease and dirt, refreshes and disinfects. To clean the washing machine from the smell, pour 1 cup of granulated acid into the drum and run the hottest mode without laundry.
How to Prevent Odor in Your Washing Machine
To keep your washing machine always clean and fresh, follow these rules.
- Do not close the machine hatch immediately after washing. Let it dry and air out. This will prevent condensation and mold from forming.
- Don't store dirty laundry in the machine. Use a special basket or bag for this purpose.
- Use quality detergents in the right quantities. Follow the instructions on the packaging or on the machine display. Do not overdo it with powder or conditioner, they can clog the tubes and drum.
- Clean the detergent drawer and rubber seal regularly. Remove the drawer from the machine and rinse it under running water. Wipe the rubber seal with a cloth or sponge to remove any remaining water or dirt.
- Perform a service wash at least once a month. Use one of the above products or a special cleaner for washing machines. This will clean the internal parts of the machine from dirt and odors.
By following these simple guidelines, you will extend the life of your washing machine and make the washing process enjoyable and safe.
