How to Fix the Musty Smell in a Front Load Washer
Front load washers include a rubber gasket at the front of the appliance, just next to the door. These rubber gaskets perform important work, as they help ensure that water does not leak from the appliance during a cycle. The disadvantage to these gaskets is that unless they are cared for and cleaned, they can produce a musty smell. Removing this musty smell is easy to do and there are a few ways you can do so. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- High-efficiency laundry detergent
- Towel
- Bucket
- Chlorine bleach
- Cleaning cloths
Instructions
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Use HE (high-efficiency) detergent when washing a load. Most front load washer manufacturers recommend that you use this kind of detergent because it doesn't leave as much residue on the rubber gasket.
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Wipe the gasket clean after each use. There will be a small amount of water that stays in the fold of the gasket. Use a towel to wipe it away so that it does not stagnate.
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Leave the door cracked open after each use. This promotes better ventilation and allows the interior of the washer to dry more quickly.
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4
Pour 3/4 cup of liquid chlorine bleach into a bucket filled with one gallon of water. Dip a cloth into the mixture and then wipe the gasket area of the washer. Let it stand for five minutes, then wipe it dry with a dry cloth.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wear gloves when using liquid bleach.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit laundry image by timur1970 from Fotolia.com
