Caught a whiff of a funky odour wafting from your washing machine lately? You're not alone! But here's the silver lining: We've got some good news! There are a few easy steps you can take to freshen up your machine.
In this article, we'll spill the beans on what's causing that stench in your washing machine, and show you how to sort it out. Check out our tips to keep it at bay in the future.
Why Does Your Washing Machine Start to Reek?
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Dried-up Grime and Sediments
One of the top culprits behind that funky washing machine smell is the build-up of detergent and fabric softener residues. Some of these products contain aromatic substances and chemicals that can get trapped in seals or hoses and start to stink over time.
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Bacteria and Mould
Another troublemaker is bacteria and mould. If you leave damp clothes in the washing machine for too long after the cycle ends, you're creating a perfect breeding ground for odour-causing microbes.
After the wash cycle ends, always fish out your clothes right away and leave the washing machine door ajar to let the air circulate.
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Forgotten Piece of Clothing
Every now and then, we all leave behind a sneaky piece of laundry, like a sock, in the washing machine. This clothing then stays damp for a while, becoming a feeding ground for microbes.
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Longer Time of Inactivity
If the washing machine sits idle for a while, water can linger in the hoses and tanks, which may start to smell. Closed doors and unventilated detergent compartments create the perfect conditions for mould.
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Undissolved or Low-quality Detergent
Low-quality detergent may not dissolve completely during short cycles, leaving a thin film on the drum's surface where bacteria thrive.
But sometimes, the culprit behind the stench could be a low-quality or cheap detergent that doesn't dissolve well or clogs up the washing machine.
Beating That Stink
To get rid of that washing machine reek, you'll need to give it a deep clean. Luckily, you'll find simple and budget-friendly remedies right in your own kitchen that you can try out immediately.
- Instead of laundry detergent, pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the washing machine and run an empty cycle at 90°C. Vinegar disinfects the machine and effectively eliminates odours. After the cycle finishes, wipe the door seal and leave the door open to air dry completely.
- If even the detergent dispenser stinks, reach for some baking soda. Remove it from the washing machine and give it a thorough rinse with warm water. Then, use a sponge to scrub away any build-up and grime. Finally, sprinkle baking soda inside and run the machine at 90°C.
- The rubber seal of the washing machine may be affected by dark or black mould stains. To remove them, try using concentrated bleach or a special washing machine cleaner. Remember to protect your hands with rubber gloves and your eyes with protective goggles while working to prevent possible injuries or irritation.
- When it comes to cleaning the filter, read the manual. Each washing machine requires a tailored approach to cleaning its filter, so it's important to follow specific instructions for your model. We recommend cleaning the washing machine filter every three months to ensure its optimal performance and longevity.
Avoiding the Washing Machine Stink with Preventive Measures
To dodge the stench emanating from your washing machine, focus on preventative steps. By keeping dirt and bacteria at bay, you'll effectively ward off any foul odours lurking in your machine.
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Keep the Washing Machine Doors Ajar
After every use, leave the washing machine doors and detergent dispenser open to allow them to thoroughly dry out.
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Clean the Filter and Seal Once a Month
Show your washing machine some love by giving it a thorough clean at least once a month, paying special attention to rubber seals. Use a damp cloth dipped in a mild vinegar solution to wipe down all the nooks and crannies, removing any dirt and water residue. After this process, be sure to give the seals a good wipe with a dry towel.
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Beat the Bathroom Blues: Reduce the Dampness
Dampness is the breeding ground for mould and bacteria. Ensure your bathroom has ample ventilation to combat this. Consider using a dehumidifier if needed to keep humidity levels in check.
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Turn Up the Heat Every Once in a While
For a thorough clean that fights bacteria in both your machine and your clothes, it's crucial to occasionally use cycles with higher temperatures. Alongside your usual 40°C wash, toss in items like bedding or towels on a hot 90°C cycle every now and then.
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Go for Quality Detergents and Fabric Softeners
When picking your laundry essentials, opt for top-notch detergents and fabric softeners. Those off-the-shelf brands might be the culprit behind your washer clogging up faster and starting to stink.
We suggest considering alternatives, such as products from the Puella brand. This brand offers a universal laundry gel Puella, which stands out for its high efficiency and effectiveness.
And if you want to give your clothes an extra scent boost, use Puella laundry perfume alongside the laundry gel. They complement each other perfectly, won't clog the machine, and ensure a beautiful, long-lasting fragrance on your clothes.
