Lots of us have had to deal with a smelly washer at one point or another. In many cases, the washer will stink like mildew and it can be a challenge to pinpoint the source of the odor. Luckily, when your Whirlpool front load washer smells, there are a few ways you can clean it and say goodbye to that horrible smell.
What to Do When Your Front Load Washer Smells
Why Does My Front Load Washer Stink?
It’s normal for a washing machine to develop an odor over time without proper cleaning. Moisture gets trapped inside after running a load, creating the perfect conditions for mildew to grow. That’s why it’s so important to follow a regular schedule for cleaning Whirlpool front loader mold from inside the unit.
Another reason why your washer stinks could be that you’re using too much detergent. When you add a large amount of detergent into a moist, enclosed environment, the residue can get stuck in crevices, creating excess bacteria. On the other hand, the wrong detergent can also make a stinky situation. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for which type of detergent to use to avoid Whirlpool front load washer smells.
How to Clean Washer Gasket
The smell you’re experiencing might be coming from the washer’s door gasket. That’s the large rubber seal around the inside of the door. To clean it, start by pulling back the seal and inspect it for any foreign objects that may be trapped inside. Once you’ve removed any trapped debris, you can move onto cleaning.
Use a clean cloth along with a cleaning solution to wipe down the inside of the door gasket. We suggest you mix one part vinegar and one part warm water, then use a microfiber rag to scrub in between the crevices and around the gasket. Repeat this process as often as possible to eliminate future odors.
How to Clean Washer Drum
There are a few methods for how to clean front load washing machine drum odors. Most newer models have a built-in tub cleaning cycle. Run this cycle if available to give the inside of your washer a good cleaning. Not sure if your model has this cycle? Just check your use and care manual to find out!
If you have to clean your washer drum the old fashioned way, here’s how it’s done:
- Mix ¼ cup baking soda and ¼ cup water and dump the mixture into your machine’s detergent container.
- Measure two cups of white vinegar and dump directly into the drum. If available, run a cycle on high heat to help break up mold and mildew.
- Once the cycle is complete, create a mixture of white vinegar and water. Then use a microfiber rag to scrub out whatever mildew is left inside.
Ways to Prevent Front Load Washer Odors
Now that you know what causes odors and how to deal with front load washer smells, take the right steps to avoid odors in the future. Some manufactures suggests using a desired fresh tablet to help keep your machine fresh. Use one of these tabs once a month with your Clean Washer cycle for best results.
A few other simple ways to keep your machine smelling fresh are to remove wet clothes right away, and to leave the door ajar between cycles.
With tips like these, you’re guaranteed to have a fresh-smelling front load washing machine every day. If you find yourself in need of help for a broken washer though, be sure to call High’N Appliance Services for fast washing machine repair.