Does your washing machine give off a musty smell every time you open it? Are you sick of cleaning the machine, just to have it start smelling again? The best cleaning method is prevention. Follow these three steps to avoid a dirty washing machine:
Step 1: Use the Right Amount of Detergent
Using too much laundry detergent can result in bacteria buildup. The excess suds can hold the dirt pulled from clothes and gets caught in areas that won’t always rinse clean, like under a shirt collar. It can also leave extra residue along the walls of your washing machine, which can fade colors and attract more dirt. If your home has hard water, check the washing instructions listed on the detergent to determine the proper amount of soap, as it could actually be more than you originally thought.
Step 2: Remove Wet Clothes Right Away
Allowing wet clothes to sit in at the bottom of the washing machine can lead to a stale, musty smell, or worse—mold. The damp environment is a perfect breading ground for bacteria and can lead to mold or mildew growth on both your clothes and machine. Take clothes out of the washing machine immediately to avoid these problems. Set the timer on the machine for an automatic reminder or set an alarm on your phone or clock in case you are away from the machine.
Step 3: Leave the Door Open After Cycle
This is the easiest and most effective tip of them all. Leave the washing machine door open after running a cycle of clothes. It doesn’t matter if it’s a front or top loading machine, both need the chance to air out. Let the leftover water evaporate to avoid the musty aroma next time you go to do laundry. When you come back to take the clothes out of the dryer, you’ll be reminded to close the washing machine door. Be careful if you have pets or small children; make sure they are not able to crawl into the machine.
Now that musty washing machine smells are a thing of the past, be sure to keep the rest of your machine in top shape. If you encounter problems with your washing machine, such as a hose that needs replacement, contact the professionals at Mike Diamond Services. Our Smell Good Plumbers are available to assist you 24/7. Check out our coupons page for washing machine hose replacement coupons and other great deals.
