What's That Smell? How To Clean Your High-Efficiency Washing Machine
High-efficiency front-loading washing machines are a great way to get your laundry clean and save money at the same time. Not only do HE washing machines use less water, they also use less detergent — they only need about 2 teaspoons of detergent. One thing you need to know about HE washing machines is that they can develop foul odors if they're not kept clean and sanitized. Here are three simple steps you can take to keep your HE washing machine smelling fresh.
Clean the Inside of the Washer
You might think that your washer gets cleaned each time you use it. Unfortunately, the opposite is actually true. Each time you do your laundry, soap scum and oils build up inside your washing machine. To remove odors, you need to clean the inside of the washer at least once a month. Fill a bucket with warm water and add about ½ cup of bleach. Use a soft cloth to wash the inside of your washer with the cleaning solution. Be sure to reach deep inside the drum to get to all of the crevices.
Once you have the laundry compartment sanitized, move on to the rubber door seal. Moisture can build up under the rubber seal, which can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew. Carefully pull the seal back and use your cleaning cloth to wipe away all the dirt, soap scum, and mildew. Be sure to wipe inside the seal as well.
Sanitize the Detergent Tray
Soap scum can cause serious odors in your detergent tray. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to remove your detergent tray. Fill your kitchen sink with hot water. Add ½ cup of bleach and 2 teaspoons of dish detergent. Place your detergent tray in the soapy water and allow it to soak for about 30 minutes. Use a cloth to wash the tray and then rinse with clear water. Wipe the tray with a dry towel and then allow it to continue air drying for several minutes before you place it back in the washing machine.
Run a Wash Cycle
To make sure you've thoroughly cleaned your HE washing machine, you should send it through a wash cycle. Add about ¼ cup of bleach to the detergent tray and run your washer through a hot water wash cycle. This will ensure that your entire washing machine is cleaned and sanitized.
If you just bought your first HE washing machine, make sure you avoid foul odors. Use the tips provided here to keep your washing machine smelling fresh. For more information, contact local professionals like Hudson Appliance Center.