Why You Should Leave Your Washing Machine Door Open

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

How To Get Rid of The Mildew Smell In A Front-Loader Washing Machine

Do your clothes keep coming out of the washing machine smelling like they didn’t get clean? You might think that you didn’t use enough detergent, or that your washing machine isn’t working properly, but that likely isn’t the case. 

If you have a washing machine in your Charlotte, NC, home, especially a front loader, you probably know they have a tendency to grow mold over time, and that keeping that mold at bay can feel like a losing battle. The team at SERVPRO of South Mecklenburg County has good news for you, clothes that smell clean are possible. Keep reading to find our tips to have a washing machine without that mildew smell. 

• The most important way to combat any mold and mildew growth is by leaving the door open whenever the washer is not in use. It is also important to pull out the detergent drawer at the same time. Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments so allowing the entire machine to dry between uses reduces the chances of growth.
• As you can see, letting your washer dry out is imperative, so we also recommend transferring clean clothes to your dryer as soon as possible. Moving clothes over quickly protects both the washer and your clothes from unwanted scents.
• Wiping the drum, door, and gasket monthly keeps scents out of the washer and off of your clothes. Using equal parts of vinegar and water is a safe and natural way to clean without putting your clothes at risk of stains.
• When cleaning your washer you should also run an empty load with two cups of vinegar. This cleans the areas of your washer that you can’t reach.
• The right amount and kind of detergent is also important to avoid a buildup of residue. Make sure you are only using a high-efficiency detergent in a high-efficiency machine, and always use the amounts recommended on the detergent bottle. We also recommend swapping your liquid detergent for a powdered one. Powdered detergents leave behind less buildup and make cleaning your washing machine easier. 

Mold can feel impossible to manage once it gets started, so we recommend creating a schedule for washing machine cleaning to ensure the mold and mildew don’t start taking over. Wherever water is in your home, mold, and mildew can begin to spread in as little as 24 hours, so when water becomes a problem, call SERVPRO of South Mecklenburg County. For all of your water restoration and mold remediation needs, we are Here to help®.

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