How to get rid of washing machine smells

Your clothes are separated and sorted, ready to be washed. You open the door to your front loader and you are suddenly hit with an overwhelming smell! This is a common problem, caused by a dirt, scum, mineral and detergent build-up in your washing machine. Here we share some easy tips and show you how to get rid of washing machine smells for good.

Overview:

• Why does your washing machine smell bad?
• How to clean your washing machine

Why does your washing machine smell bad?

Moisture

Moisture can easily remain on washing machine parts – the drum, lid or gasket after a wash cycle. Pay particular attention to the rubber seal on your front loader. This seal is located between the drum and the door. Excess moisture can easily cause a build-up of mould and mildew. After your last wash, wipe down the rubber seal thoroughly. Leave the door slightly ajar between loads to thoroughly dry and eliminate smells.

Hard water

If you live in a hard water area, your water will contain a high mineral content which leads to limescale build up. This can cause multiple problems including unwanted odours, stains and weakened fibres on clothing and a reduction in your washing machine efficiency. Descale your washing machine to remove limescale build up. We recommend Aktivo Dishwasher + Washing Machine Descaler.

Bacteria

Washing at a low temperature is energy efficient, however it does not remove bacteria. As detergent residue and scum accumulates in your washer, it creates the perfect breeding ground for mould and bacteria.

Luckily, we can apply some easy fixes and eliminate those pesky laundry smells.

How to clean your washing machine

What you will need:

• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Soft cleaning cloth

Step 1

Put your washing machine through a vinegar and bicarb wash cycle.  For a top loader, set your machine at its hottest and longest setting. When it has filled up with water, just add 2 cups vinegar and 1/2 cup baking soda. Let it run for a complete cycle. For a front loader, just add 2 tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda into the detergent drawer and ½ cup white vinegar into the drum. Let it run for a complete cycle on the hottest setting.

Step 2

Remove the detergent dispenser draw and wash with warm soap and water.

Step 3

Dispose of any lint that may have accumulated in your washer’s drain trap filter.

Step 4

Lastly, wipe the exterior of your machine with a soft cloth and a multi-purpose cleaner.

Handy hints

• Wipe down the inside of your washer after the last load. This will help to remove remaining moisture from the drum and rubber door seal. Take a minute to inspect your door seal. If you notice any cracks or signs of wear and tear, you may need to replace it. You can easily find your replacement washing machine seal here.
• Leave the door slightly ajar and your dispenser draw open after your last wash. This will help it to thoroughly dry and reduce smells.
• Use laundry detergent that is specifically designed for your type of washer. Front loaders require low-sud formulas.
• Use the right amount of detergent for your type of washing machine. A little goes a long way! Excessive detergent can leave stains and residue on your clothes and can also cling to the walls of your machine. This in turn leads to odours and dull clothes. We recommend Aktivo Ultra Concentrate Laundry Liquid or Aktivo Super Concentrate Laundry Powder.  The gentle yet effective formulas are ultra-concentrated and environmentally friendly.

With a little care it is easy to keep your washer in top condition and those unwanted smells away.

Spring is just around the corner! Check out our handy washing machine cleaning tips on our blog.

Is your washer or dryer playing up? Bring out your inner DIY’er with our troubleshooting guide for simple repairs and maintenance.

If you are looking for washing machine parts, check out the extensive range at Statewide Appliance Spares.  We stock spare parts for all the big brands including Bosch, LG, Fisher & Paykel, Haier, Simpson, Speed Queen and Westinghouse and the convenience of fast Australia wide delivery.

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