When you open your washing machine, you probably expect the smell of fresh, clean clothes. However, over time, that can change into an unpleasant odor, such as mildew or mold. While it might seem like your washing machine should be the cleanest appliance in your house, the warmth and moisture creates ideal conditions for mold and bacterial growth. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to keep your washing machine and clothes smelling great.

How to Get Smells Out of Your Washing Machine

1. Clean the Dispensers

Laundry, bleach, and fabric dispensers often collect standing water, which makes them perfect breeding grounds for mold. Start by removing the dispensers and running them through the dishwasher. You may also need to use a cotton swab or pipe cleaner to clear built-up dirt and mold out of the pipes underneath the dispensers.

2. Use the Right Detergent

Front-loading washing machines use less water than traditional top-loading models, which makes them more efficient and environmentally friendly. However, they may not be able to thoroughly rinse away detergents that aren’t formulated for these machines, which can eventually cause build-up inside the drum. Use laundry detergent designed for efficient appliances to keep bad odors from developing.

3. Run a Load of Bleach

To sanitize the drum, start an empty load with the washer at its hottest setting, and add two to four cups of bleach. When the drum is full, stop the cycle and let the water sit for around 30 minutes. Finally, let the cycle finish, and run the appliance on empty to rinse the bleach out.

Whether your washing machine is giving off strange smells or just needs to be replaced, trust the professionals at Appliance Service Company in Fairbanks, AK, for expert service and high-quality, dependable results. Their team has over 55 years of combined experience providing repairs, sales, and maintenance services to homes and businesses throughout the area. Visit their website to learn how they can keep your appliances running, or call (907) 452-1000 to schedule a service today.