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Does your washing machine smell bad? A washer is meant to clean clothes, but over time, it can develop unpleasant odors due to mold, mildew, and detergent buildup. If you’re wondering how to get odor out of washer, this guide will help you remove bad smells and keep your washer fresh.
Why Does Your Washer Smell?
A smelly washer is usually caused by:
- Mold and Mildew: Moisture in the drum and rubber seals encourages mold growth.
- Detergent and Fabric Softener Buildup: Residue from detergents can create a sticky layer where bacteria grow.
- Dirty Drain Hose or Filter: Lint, hair, and detergent can clog the drain system.
- Leaving Wet Clothes in the Washer: Sitting water can create a musty smell.
Luckily, you can eliminate odors with simple cleaning methods.
How to Get Odor Out of Washer: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Clean the Drum with Vinegar and Baking Soda
Vinegar and baking soda are natural cleaners that remove bacteria and odors.
✅ For a Top-Load Washer:
- Fill the washer with hot water on the largest load setting.
- Add 2 cups of white vinegar and run a wash cycle.
- After the cycle, sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda in the drum and run another short cycle.
✅ For a Front-Load Washer:
- Pour 2 cups of vinegar into the detergent dispenser.
- Run the hottest wash cycle.
- After the cycle, sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda inside the drum and run another rinse cycle.
2. Scrub the Rubber Seal and Detergent Tray
The rubber seal in front-load washers and the detergent tray are common places for mold growth.
🛑 Steps to Clean:
- Remove the detergent tray and soak it in hot, soapy water. Scrub away any residue with a brush.
- Wipe the rubber seal with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water using a microfiber cloth.
- For stubborn mold, use a toothbrush dipped in baking soda.
3. Clean the Washer Filter and Drain Hose
Lint and debris can get trapped in the filter and drain hose, causing odors.
🔧 How to Clean the Washer Filter:
- Locate the filter (usually near the bottom front panel).
- Place a towel underneath and unscrew the filter cap.
- Remove any lint or debris, rinse the filter, and screw it back in place.
🛠 How to Clean the Drain Hose:
- Disconnect the drain hose from the washer.
- Flush it with warm water and vinegar to remove blockages.
4. Run a Bleach Cycle for Deep Cleaning
If the odor persists, bleach can kill bacteria and mold effectively.
⚠️ Important: Never mix bleach with vinegar, as it creates toxic fumes.
🧼 Steps:
- Pour ½ cup of bleach into the detergent dispenser.
- Run a hot water cycle with no clothes inside.
- Run another rinse cycle to remove any leftover bleach.
How to Prevent Odors in Your Washer
To keep your washing machine smelling fresh, follow these maintenance tips:
✅ Leave the Washer Door Open: Let the drum dry completely after each wash.
✅ Use the Right Amount of Detergent: Too much detergent leaves residue, leading to odors.
✅ Clean the Washer Monthly: Regular cleaning prevents mold and mildew buildup.
✅ Remove Wet Clothes Immediately: Avoid leaving damp clothes in the washer.
✅ Check for Clogs: Clean the drain filter and hose every few months.
Conclusion
Now you know how to get odor out of washer using simple cleaning methods. Regular maintenance with vinegar, baking soda, and bleach can eliminate smells and prevent future buildup. By keeping your washer clean, you’ll ensure fresh-smelling laundry every time.
Try these tips today and enjoy a cleaner, odor-free washing machine! 🚿✨
