How to Remove Odors & Clean Your Washing Machine

If you own a front loading washing machine you may have suddenly been smacked in the nose by smelly odors. Front loading washers are great, they are efficient, and easy to use but most people do not use them correctly. This failed ownership and use can cause your washing machine to get dirty, moldy, and mildew ridden making it smell funky and not clean as well. Also, following a maintenance plan is important just like changing the oil in your car. No matter the type of washing machine you have, maintenance and the tips below will help you enjoy washing your clothes, bedding, towels, and microfiber towels much more.

Why Do Washing Machines Get Dirty and Smelly?

There are a lot of reasons your washing machine may get dirty and smelly. Some of the causes are from excess detergents, not using hot water often enough, and not doing regular cleaning and maintenance. The causes are quite endless but prevention is key!

Some common causes of a funky washing machine are:

1. Detergent Residue: Over time, detergent can build up in the drum and other components, leading to odors.
2. Mold and Mildew: The damp environment inside the washing machine is conducive to mold and mildew growth, especially if the door is kept closed after use.
3. Trapped Debris: Lint, hair, and other debris can accumulate in the drum and rubber gasket, contributing to unpleasant smells.
4. Hard Water: Minerals in hard water can leave deposits that create a breeding ground for bacteria and odors.
5. Cold Water: Cold water is great on fabrics and does less damage than extremely hot water but it cannot rinse the machine clean as well as a hot water cycle.
6. Infrequent Cleaning: Not regularly cleaning the washing machine can lead to a buildup of grime and odors.

What do You Need to Clean Your Washing Machine

To effectively clean your washing machine and eliminate odors, you will need the following items. None of these products or items will break the bank nor will they take up unnecessary room in your cabinets.

1. Bio Bomb Mini Anti-Microbial Tablets: This powerful cleaner also kills odors and mildew and can be used multiple ways and is extremely cost effective compared to other washing machine cleaners.
2. White Vinegar: A natural deodorizer that helps eliminate mold and mildew and is easy to find but not as effective as other options.
3. Baking Soda: Neutralizes odors and provides an extra cleaning boost.
4. Microfiber Towels: For wiping down surfaces, especially the rubber gasket, detergent trays, and doors.
5. Distilled Water: For diluting Bio Bomb minis, vinegar, and other cleaning solutions. Tap water has a lot of contaminants that will cause your cleaners to attack the water they are in and render them not as effective as distilled water.
6. 32 Ounce Spray Bottle: A high quality spray bottle and sprayer is worth its weight in gold. A perfect size for diluting cleaning products and goes a long way before refilling.

Having these items on hand will make the cleaning process more efficient and effective, ensuring your washing machine stays fresh and odor-free.

How Often Should You Clean Your Washing Machine

It is recommended to clean your washing machine every month to prevent odors and maintain its efficiency. Regular maintenance helps to eliminate detergent residue, mold, and mildew buildup, ensuring your washing machine stays fresh and operates effectively. A clean washing machine cleans your clothes, bedding, towels, detailing microfibers, and anything else you wash much more efficiently.

Steps For Cleaning Your Washing Machine

Cleaning your washing machine is essential to maintain its efficiency and prevent unpleasant odors. Here are some effective steps to follow:

1. Run a Hot Water Cycle with a Bio Bomb Mini: Start by running an empty cycle with hot water. This helps to dissolve any detergent residue and grime and will immediately give odors a one two punch!
2. Add Vinegar: Pour two cups of white vinegar into the drum and run another hot cycle. Vinegar acts as a natural deodorizer and helps to eliminate mold and mildew.
3. Baking Soda Boost: After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle half a cup of baking soda into the drum and run a short cycle. Baking soda neutralizes odors and adds an extra cleaning boost.
4. Clean the Gasket: Don’t forget to clean the rubber gasket around the door. Wipe it down with a mixture of equal parts water and Bio Bomb Mini spray to remove any trapped dirt and mildew.
5. Leave the Door Open: After cleaning, leave the door open to allow the interior to dry completely. This helps prevent future odors.
6. Repeat Monthly!

By following these steps, you can ensure your washing machine remains odor-free and operates efficiently,