How To Clean a Moldy Washing Machine

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

How To Clean a Moldy Washing Machine

A front-load washing machine gets clothes cleaner than a traditional washer while using less water and detergent. However, if the wrong type of soap or too much soap is used, it can stick to surfaces inside the washer. This creates a ripe environment for mold and bacteria growth. If you notice a musty smell coming from your washer, you likely have a mold problem. You do not have to live with the smell. With a few easy steps, it is fairly simple to have your washer smelling fresh again.

Clean With Vinegar and Baking Soda

Instead of using harsh bleach, you can clean the inside of the machine with a vinegar and baking soda solution. Mix 1/4 cup baking soda with 1/4 cup water. Pour the solution into the detergent container. Add two cups of vinegar into the empty drum. Run the washer through a cycle using high heat.

Scrub With a Scrubber Sponge

After the wash cycle is complete, check the washing machine to see if any grime, dirt, or mold remains. Be sure to check the rubber seal around the door. This is prime real estate for water to get trapped, and bacteria and mold love to grow in areas that trap moisture. The backside of a kitchen sponge should provide enough friction to remove any remaining grime.

Prevent Mold Regrowth

Now that your washer is free from the mold smell, you will want to prevent it from returning. To do this, use a detergent that is made specifically for high-efficiency washers. Avoid creating an environment that is hospitable to mold by removing clothes promptly. Leave the washer door open so that the machine dries out between loads.
Returning your washing machine to normal only requires a few steps, and you will have your dirty laundry smelling clean again. If you find that you still have a mold problem in Hall Park, OK, you can contact a mold remediation company to restore your washer.