At a Glance:
Why Does My Washing Machine Smell?
Signs You Need to Clean Your Front Load Washer
How to Clean Front Load Washer Gaskets
How to Clean Front Load Washer Detergent Dispensers
How to Clean Front Load Washer Drums
When front load washers first hit the market, they quickly became the preferred choice in households that wanted a modern laundry room. But soon after, first-generation front loaders users discovered the biggest issue with these washing machines: the smell. Luckily, this problem is less of an issue with newer front load washing machines, but there’s still potential for funk to develop if one of these machines isn’t properly maintained.
Whether you’re just curious or searching for a solution to your stinky washer, we explain it all in this guide on how to clean a front load washer. Along the way, our experts will answer several possible reasons your appliance has gone foul and how to get rid of the smell. Plus, we’ll reveal three front load washing machines featuring the latest technology that keeps smells from building in the first place.
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Front Load WashersWhy Does My Washing Machine Smell?
The culprit mainly has to do with how a front load washer is built. While traditional washers (a.k.a. top load washers) use a deep tup, front loaders are made with tubs that sit on their sides. The purpose is to use less water while still providing an efficient clean, and it works — front load washers are far more efficient than their top loading counterparts.
The problem is water has a habit of pooling in the folds of the door gasket. Additionally, washing machine water is full of dirt, bacteria, and even viruses, all of which thrive in dark, humid environments such as a door gasket.
When left untreated, this can lead to mold, slime, and in some cases, a dirty front load washer gasket can even harbor harmful pathogens.
Unfortunately, that’s not the only area that’s vulnerable. Buildup can also form in the detergent dispenser, as well as the tub. That’s why it’s recommended to clean your front load washer at least every month, though every week is best.
Signs You Need to Clean Your Front Load Washer
It’s not hard to tell your front load washer is due for a cleaning. Tell-tale signs include:
- Smelly clothes
- Buildup of debris
- Mold growth in the door gasket
It’s important to regularly inspect the areas where smells accumulate most on a front load washing machine in order to prevent buildup from starting in the first place. Additionally, users can reduce the chances of bad smells forming by practicing good habits.
✅ Keep front load washer doors open to dry out any moisture.
✅ Wipe the gaskets dry after every load.
✅ Give the drum a wipe-down every once in a while.
✅ Only use as much detergent as necessary (front load washers use less than traditional washers).
✅ Remove clothes as soon as it’s done washing, or as soon as possible.
If you haven’t been applying these tips to your laundry routine, we recommend doing so immediately. You’ll greatly reduce the chances of smells forming, and you’ll also be ensuring your washing machine is in tip-top shape, potentially adding years to its lifespan.
For users currently dealing with a smelly front load washer, keep reading for how to clean front load washer solutions.
How to Clean Front Load Washer Gaskets
That rubber band around a front load washer needs to be airtight to avoid leakage, but unfortunately, that means dirt and bacteria can become sealed in too. The good news is that cleaning this barrier is practically effortless, but the key is tackling the situation before it’s too late. Mold is notoriously difficult to get out of rubber. Add this to your cleaning list for a front load washer clean gasket every time.
This is what you’ll need and the steps to how to clean mold from front load washer gasket.
Tools:
✓ A soft cloth
✓ A mild detergent
✓ Warm water
✓ Bleach
✓ A soft bristle brush
- First, open the washer door, and working in sections, pull back the gasket.
- Inspect the folds for any large items, removing them as you go.
- Next, douse the gasket in a solution of soap and warm water; cold water is less effective at targeting mold spores.
- Wipe away the areas you’ve sprayed; if any spots remain, continue.
- Take a solution of water mixed with bleach (10 parts water to 1 part bleach), dip a brush into the mixture, and scrub mold spots.
- Once all the mildew has been removed, wipe the entire gasket dry on both the inside and the outside.
Check it Out!
GE White Smart Front Load Washer
This GE front load washer with UltraFresh Vent System and Microban technology offers a smart response to mold issues. It tackles the problem in two ways: by filtering air through the door, eliminating moisture from accumulating, and with antimicrobial lining on the gasket that prevents mold from making a home between the crevices on the door. With a 94 percent buyer recommendation, it’s safe to say users give the technology high ratings.
How to Clean Front Load Washer Detergent Dispensers
It may be surprising to find out that the very place you pour laundry detergent is also susceptible to mold buildup. Remember, bacteria loves humid settings, so it makes sense that the dispenser would make prime real estate for mold and mildew.
Fret not — the solution is easy. Here’s what you’ll need and the steps to follow.
Tools
✓ Warm water
✓ Bleach
✓ A soft bristle brush
- Extend the detergent dispenser; once pulled fully out, remove it from the washer using the release tabs/lever. Each model is different, so defer to the manual on how to remove the tray.
- Once removed, run the tray under warm water, using soap, if you desire.
- If mold is has started to grow, use a fine brush with some bleach and water to scrub it off.
- After cleaning, dry the interior and replace the tray with the machine.
Check it Out!
LG Black Steel Front Load Washer
Cutting back on how much detergent you use can also reduce bacteria growth. This LG front load washer lets you do that even when for cold washes thanks to its ColdWash technology that delivers a performance comparable to washing with warm water. Considering reviews like this one claim this to be the “best washer you can get currently in the market,” it’s safe to say front load washers have come a long way and models like this one make mold and mildew a thing of the past.
How to Clean Front Load Washer Drums
Regardless of how clean your washer’s gasket and detergent dispenser are, you’ll need to give the tub a deep clean every once in a while. Some front load washers now come with a special self-cleaning mode, but you can also clean the tub the old fashion way. Using the automatic cycle is easier, but if you want to clean your front load washer tub yourself, here’s what you’ll need and how to do it.
Tools
✓ White vinegar
✓ Baking soda
✓ Front load washer cleaning tab
- Start by pouring 2 cups of vinegar into the detergent dispenser.
- Next, sprinkle the washer drum with baking soda. You don’t need an exact amount, just enough to cover the inside, but do not use too much.
- Then, run your washer.
Alternatively, you can pop in a front load washer tablet and repeat the steps above.
Check it Out!
Maytag White Front Load Washer
We’ve all been guilty of leaving a load of wet laundry in the washer, but it’s a quick way to get your machine smelling funky. This Maytag front load washer solves that with its 16 Hr Fresh Hold Option feature. It keeps smells from forming by using a fan while tumbling clothes, keeping both your wardrobe and your machine fresh. This Maytag washer also comes with a self-clean mode, making maintenance easier than ever.
Congrats — you’re an expert on how to clean front load washing machine models! While our goal is to inform you how to care for your front load washer, we also hope this debunks any myths you might’ve still had about these appliances. In reality, front load washers are extremely efficient, super stylish, and they come with perks such as being able to stack to save space in the laundry room. Now, you’re ready to browse for a new front load washing machine yourself, and Bekins is the place to start. Visit us in store or online today to find the latest front load washers that are easy to maintain and superior in performance.
FAQs
Finally, let’s review a few common questions buyers have regarding front load washers and their history with mold and smells.
Can mold in my washing machine make me sick?
Yes, it can, although it’s usually not severe. However, certain people are extremely allergic to some kinds of mold and can experience allergic reactions when exposed to them.
Do all front loading washing machines have mold problems?
Fortunately, manufacturers have developed great solutions to mildew buildup on front load washing machines, making it less of a threat for newer models.
Why Trust Bekins Appliances and Electronics?
Bekins is a local, family-owned, internationally acclaimed appliance and electronics company in West Michigan. It started as a service company in 1975 when Harvey and Barbara Bekins started their own appliance repair business out of their home in Grand Haven. We still view ourselves as a service company today, but now we also sell, install and service both appliances and electronics across West Michigan.
Scott, started in the business as an 8-year-old holding the flashlight for his father. Scott rolled in the first appliances when Harvey and Barb opened our Grand Haven showroom in 1982. After Scott bought the company from his parents, Bekins started offering custom electronic services, then expanded with another state-of-the-art, interactive showroom in Grand Rapids.
In all, Bekins has earned more than 21 national and international honors. That does not include their Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics or their Grand Haven Tribune People’s Choice Award for Best Appliances (17 years and counting!).
Shop Front Load Washers at Bekins
Stop by a Bekins location to see what a difference buying local with an experienced staff can make. Or shop laundry appliances online today! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you learn how to clean a front load washer— whether you call us at 616-288-1020, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.
Learn More: 5 Best Front Load Washers
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