Chances are you’ve run into one problem or another when it comes to taking care of household appliances. Things are always breaking, and it seems like as soon as one appliance gets fixed another one needs to be repaired. Take washing machines for example. They are a pretty important piece of a equipment. If it breaks, it results in all sorts of setbacks.
A very common problem that comes up with washing machines is odor. Because of the moisture and repetitive use, washing machines have a tendency to develop mold and mildew. This can cause your clothes to develop an unpleasant smell and, worse case scenario, a broken washing machine.
Nobody likes dealing with broken appliances, but broken washing machines are a bit of a headache. They’re extremely complicated for DIY repair and usually involve hiring an expert who may suggest replacing parts of a machine that can cost a pretty penny.
Thankfully, there are preventable tips that can be put to use to ensure that your washing machine stays in tip top shape. With a few extra maintenance steps, smelly clothing will become the least of your concerns.
In many washing machines, there is a rubberized seal around the door preventing water from getting out and air from getting in. Because of the material and its layers, this area doesn’t dry on it’s own very well and is the perfect breeding ground for mildew. The first step that can be used is to wipe this area down after each use so that it stays dry.
Bleach and vinegar work wonders at keeping a washing machine clean. Just remember not to use them at the same time as that can be dangerous. The next step is to mix together a solution of equal parts bleach to hot water. Using a rag, wash down any areas that are affected by or prone to mildew using the solution. Once that’s done, run the machine with hot water to flush out all the bleach.
The final step is to add 16 ounces of vinegar to the dispenser and run the machine once again on the warmest cycle. After this, you should notice a much fresher smelling washing machine. Give it a try!