How to Get Rid of the Smell From a Front-Loading Washing Machine
Though sleek and stylish to look at, front-loading washing machines harbor a dreadful secret. Beyond that chic exterior that's so easy on the eyes can be a dreadful smell lurking inside. The culmination of detergent mixed with moisture and darkness within the door's seal is a prime and convenient place for the accumulation of mildew. Thoroughly clean your machine to eliminate these unpleasant smells. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Wipe the seal around the door with a clean damp cloth to remove dirt, debris or any other type of grime that may be trapped within.
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Fill a bucket half full with hot water, then add a cup of white vinegar and a cup of baking soda. This solution will create a lot of fizz, so leave room in the bucket to prevent overflow.
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Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the solution and wipe down the inside of the washing machine thoroughly. Use a small nylon brush dipped into the solution to clean within the seal of the door.
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Remove any trays such as the detergent trays and wash them with warm, soapy water. Clean underneath the trays as well with the vinegar and baking soda solution.
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Run a quick-rinse cycle through the washing machine to wash away the residual solution and debris.
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Run the washing machine on the hottest water setting and add a cup of chlorine bleach.
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Open up the door when the cycle ends to allow the washing machine to air dry inside for 2 to 3 hours before closing it.
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Tips & Warnings
Use only the recommended amount of detergent for each load of laundry to help prevent the build-up in the door seal.
White vinegar and chlorine bleach can produce toxic fumes, so avoid using them simultaneously.
References
- Photo Credit Martin Poole/Lifesize/Getty Images
