Mildew Smells in Front-Loading Washers

Front-loading washing machines can have issues with mildew growth.

Even if you never leave wet clothing sitting in your front-loading washing machine, you could smell a mildew odor coming from it because of the differences between it and top-loading models.

Cause

Front-loading washers use less water than traditional models. Because they fill only half way with water, they are more likely to leave behind detergent and dirt inside the washer. Mildew can feed on the moist grit left behind, resulting in a smell of mildew every time you open the washer door.

Cleanup

You can remove the smell of mildew inside your washer by washing down the interior with a solution of 1/4 cup bleach to one gallon of water. Make sure to scrub rubber gaskets as well as the walls of the washer. Running a load of wash with no clothes and adding bleach to the water will also kill mildew.

Prevention

Using detergent designed for front-loading washers and not overloading the machine will reduce your risk of mildew developing. If you can leave the door cracked open, the interior of the washer will dry faster, which also prevents mildew, according to "Green Up Your Cleanup," a guide to environmentally friendly options.

References

• "Green Up Your Cleanup"; Jill Schoff; 2008