How to Eliminate the Mildew Smell in a Washing Machine

When you start to notice that mildewy smell emanating from your washing machine, realize that it's time for some maintenance!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• bleach
• your washing machine
• cleaning rags
• gloves

1. Purchase a cheap gallon of bleach. The brand does not matter - they are all the same.

2. Don the rubber gloves and some old clothes, just in case.

3. Pour the whole gallon of bleach into your washing machine, and set it for the longest cycle. As the tub fills with HOT water, use the rags to wipe down the well for fabric softener (if applicable) and around the upper edges of the tub and into any crevices you find. (Hint: This is also a good time to wipe the dust and dirt from the lid and around the knobs.)

4. Throw the rags into the washer, and turn it off once it is full. Allow it to sit for an hour, then turn back on to run the cycle. You should have a fresh-smelling machine that looks nice, too!

Tips & Warnings

• It is a good idea to do this periodically, to keep mildew away.
• When your machine is not in use, leave the lid up to allow it to air out.
• Handle bleach with care!

[danielzrib]

on 6/10/2008 Thanks for the tip, repairmeister!

[repairmeister]

on 6/9/2008 This will kill mold and bacteria but won't clear away the sludge that can collect on the outer surface of the inner tub. There is a product called Affresh, which is available in online retailers like RepairClinic.com that will do a better job than bleach.

[JRIngrisano]

on 4/3/2008 Great advice. I can tell you live in the tropics, where everything molds up fast. I can also use this to keep my washer clear of mildew in sunny Wisconsin. Thanks.