How do I clean a smelly washing machine?

Are you tired of doing laundry only to have your clothes come out smelling worse than they did before you washed them? It's likely that your washing machine is the culprit. Over time, a buildup of detergent, fabric softener, and bacteria can cause your washing machine to emit a less-than-pleasant odor. But fear not, with a few simple steps, you can banish the stench and keep your laundry smelling fresh. Here's how to clean a smelly washing machine.

Why Does My Washing Machine Smell?

Before we dive into how to clean a smelly washing machine, it's important to understand why it may be emitting an unpleasant odor. The most likely culprit is a buildup of bacteria and mold. When your washing machine is damp and warm, it creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Additionally, fabric softener and detergent can build up over time, leaving behind a residual smell.

Step 1: Give Your Washing Machine a Deep Clean

It's important to give your washing machine a deep clean every few months to ward off any funky smells. Here's how to do it:

1. Run an empty cycle. Set your washing machine to the highest temperature possible and let it run without any clothes inside.

2. Add cleaning products. Add two cups of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser and half a cup of baking soda directly to the drum. This will help break down any buildup and kill any bacteria and mold.

3. Let it soak. Once the cycle is complete, leave the washing machine closed and let it sit for an hour. This will allow the vinegar and baking soda to work their magic.

4. Run another cycle. After the hour has passed, run another cycle at the hottest temperature possible to rinse out any excess cleaning products.

Step 2: Clean the Gasket and Dispenser

The gasket and detergent dispenser can easily become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold. Here's how to clean them:

1. Remove any debris. Pull the gasket away from the drum and remove any debris, such as lint or hair.

2. Clean with vinegar. Using a clean cloth or sponge, wipe down the gasket with white vinegar. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.

3. Scrub the detergent dispenser. Remove the detergent dispenser and scrub it with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar.

Step 3: Keep Your Washing Machine Clean

Prevention is key when it comes to keeping your washing machine smelling fresh. Here are a few tips to keep it clean:

1. Leave the door open. After you've finished doing laundry, leave the door to your washing machine open. This will allow air to circulate and help your machine dry out.

2. Use less detergent. Using too much detergent can cause a buildup, so only use the recommended amount.

3. Clean up spills. If you spill any detergent or fabric softener, make sure to clean it up right away to avoid any buildup.

4. Wipe down the drum. Every month, give the drum a quick wipe down with a clean cloth or sponge to prevent any buildup.

In conclusion, a smelly washing machine is a common problem that can easily be fixed with a little bit of elbow grease. By giving your washing machine a deep clean, cleaning the gasket and dispenser, and keeping it clean, you can ensure that your laundry comes out smelling fresh every time.