How to Prevent Your Washing Machine from Smelling Bad

A fresh load of laundry should come out of your washing machine smelling clean and crisp, but that’s not always the case.

How to Prevent Your Washing Machine from Smelling Bad

A fresh load of laundry should come out of your washing machine smelling clean and crisp, but that’s not always the case. Over time, many homeowners experience unpleasant odours emanating from their washing machines, often leaving clothes with a musty scent. If you've noticed your washing machine starting to smell bad, don't worry – this is a common issue that can be easily remedied and prevented with a few simple steps. Here's how you can keep your washing machine fresh and odour-free.

Clean the Drum Regularly

The most common reason for a smelly washing machine is a build-up of soap scum, detergent, and fabric softener residue inside the drum. Over time, this residue can harbour bacteria and mould, leading to unpleasant smells. To prevent this, it’s essential to clean the drum at least once a month. Running an empty wash cycle with hot water and a cup of white vinegar can break down grime and kill bacteria. Some machines also have a specific cleaning cycle – check your washing machine’s manual to see if this is an option.

Leave the Door Open After Use

One of the easiest ways to prevent odours is by leaving the washing machine door slightly open after each use; this allows air to circulate inside the drum, helping to dry out any lingering moisture that might lead to mould growth. This is particularly important for front-loading machines, which tend to trap more moisture than top loaders. By keeping the door ajar, you reduce the chances of mildew forming and the resulting bad smell.

Wipe Down the Rubber Seal

The rubber seal around the door is a prime spot for mould and mildew to accumulate. Detergent, fabric softener, and lint can get trapped in the folds of the seal, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. To keep the seal clean, wipe it down regularly with a damp cloth. For a deeper clean, use a mixture of water and a little bleach or vinegar to scrub away any build-up. Don’t forget to dry the seal thoroughly afterward to remove excess moisture.

Check the Filter

Many people forget that washing machines have filters designed to catch lint, hair, and other debris that could clog the system. Over time, this debris can become smelly, contributing to the overall odour of the machine. Check your washing machine’s manual for the filter’s location and clean it regularly. Removing the build-up not only keeps your machine smelling fresh but can also prevent operational issues down the track.

Use the Right Detergent

Sometimes, using too much detergent or the wrong type of detergent for your machine can lead to residue build-up, which causes bad smells. If you have a high-efficiency (HE) machine, make sure to use detergent specifically formulated for HE washers. This reduces the amount of suds created, preventing excess detergent from getting trapped inside the machine. Remember, more detergent doesn’t always mean cleaner clothes. Stick to the recommended amount and avoid overloading the machine.

Run Hot Water Cycles

Many people wash their clothes on cold settings to save energy, but it’s a good idea to occasionally run a hot water cycle to prevent odours. The heat helps break down detergent residues and kills bacteria or mould that may have started growing inside the machine.

Every few weeks, run an empty hot wash with some baking soda or specialised washing machine cleaner to give your machine a deep clean.

Don’t Let Wet Clothes Sit

Leaving wet laundry in the washing machine for extended periods can lead to mildew growth and a musty smell. If you're not able to transfer your laundry immediately after a cycle finishes, set a reminder or use your machine’s delayed start function to better time your wash cycles.

Seek Professional Help When Needed

If you’ve tried all these steps and your washing machine still smells bad, it could be a sign of a more serious issue. In that case, seeking assistance from local washing machine repairs experts can help identify and resolve the problem. Professional repair services can thoroughly clean the machine's internal components and inspect for any faults that could be contributing to the smell. If you're located in Australia and in need of expert assistance, consider contacting a trusted team for local washing machine repairs to keep your machine in top condition.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your washing machine smelling fresh is all about regular maintenance and good habits. By cleaning the drum, wiping down seals, and using the right detergents, you can ensure your laundry comes out as fresh as it should be. And, when in doubt, professional repair services are always there to help tackle those stubborn odours and keep your machine running smoothly.

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