The washing machine is a hard-working piece of kit in most households so no wonder it starts to smell less than fragrant from time to time. What can you do to prevent it stinking out your utility room?
Run regular service washes
Nowadays, many of us wash clothing at low temperatures. It’s great for the environment, and it saves us money through reduced utility bills. But, there’s an issue, and that is cleanliness. Lower temperatures don’t wash away dirt, mold and bacteria in the machine as well as higher ones.
The machine’s service wash setting will be hot. Using this setting as often as the manufacturer recommends will keep your machine fresh and clean.
Turn off the machine and clean the seal, drawer and filter
Mold and bacteria can lurk in the rubber seal around the door hole. Soak a sponge in a cider vinegar/water mix and wipe around the area carefully, rinsing afterwards. If you can’t remove the mold because it’s been there too long, you may need to think about replacing the seal.
Do as the house cleaning Potomac experts do and regularly clean the detergent drawer and the filter to remove the build-up of dirt and washing powder.
Leave the door and drawer open
If possible, leave the washing machine’s door and drawer open as much as possible. This allows air to circulate and prevents the build-up of mold.
Smelliness might be caused by a blocked standpipe. If you think this is the case, try to unblock the pipe to get rid of any build-up.
Use the right amount of detergent
Most of us are guilty of using too much. Lots of washing powder means spotless clothes, right? Not so. Modern formulations are super effective. If you use too much, then the machine can’t rinse and clear residue away properly. The excess powder will build up, create blockages and contribute to bacterial growth.
Other tips for washing machine cleanliness include:
- Take washing out of the machine as soon as the cycle has finished
- Don’t use the machine as a substitute laundry basket. Clothes should go in there just before putting it on.
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