So let me start with a little story about our washing machine…. about 6 months after we got our new front loader, I began to notice a not so nice smell coming from our machine. Using these tips, I did eventually figure out how to get rid of the smell and it has pretty much been stink-free for the past three years. Now since the smell was gone, I had gotten a little lazy about actually cleaning the washing machine. No smell meant that everything was clean, right?
Ummm…apparently not.
I’m not sure why I hadn’t noticed all that mold before but it definitely had to go! If you have a lot of mold like I did, you really need to use bleach to get at it. As a general rule, I try to stay away from bleach but there was no getting away from it this time! Make sure that you have some gloves on and keep the doors {and windows if possible} open for ventilation.
Start by wiping down the whole rubber gasket with a white rag soaked in a 50/50 mixture of bleach and warm water. Make sure you pull back the rubber gasket to clean inside as well as this is where most of the mold will be. If there is still mold remaining, soak a towel with your bleach mixture, shove it into the gasket, and let it sit for 30 minutes.
After soaking, remove the towel and scrub the gasket gently with an old toothbrush. See? SO much better!
Wipe down the rubber gaskets with a clean dry cloth until no residue remains. Once you are done, place all of the rags that have come in contact with the bleach into your washing machine and run them through a complete wash and rinse cycle on the hottest setting.
Next, run the machine through a second complete cycle {at the hottest setting} adding 2 cups of vinegar {PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU SHOULD NEVER MIX BLEACH AND VINEGAR TOGETHER!!}. I added a couple of small, clean bath towels to the wash as well {as per the recommendations from my instruction manual to never run an empty load}.
Remove the detergent dispenser and clean with a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water. Make sure to wipe down the inside of the washing machine as well where the detergent dispenser goes.
Lastly, clean the inside of the door with a rag and a 50/50 water and vinegar mixture. Pay extra attention to the bottom aspect of the door where the water would pool.
So now that your washing machine is clean, how do you keep it that way? Try these tips every time you run a load…
- Give the rubber gaskets a swipe. After each load of laundry, get in the habit of checking the rubber gaskets for any small clothing items {my kids socks love to hang out there} and quickly wiping them down with a dry cloth to get rid of any excess water. I know that I had no mold when I did this and you can obviously see what my washing machine looked like when I stopped doing this!
- Leave the door open. Leave your washing machine door slightly ajar to allow air to circulate and help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
- Remove wet clothes promptly. Okay I know that this does not always happen, but try to do this as much as possible. If you cannot get to your laundry right away, try to at least pop the door open when the load has finished.
Are you new to The Household Organization Diet? You can find the first post HERE and get caught up on all of our past projects over HERE. Now is the time to get organized!!! 😉
Read about the 30 Day Home Detox HERE.
I clean my front loader faithfully every month (I keep a reminder in my phone) and have never had an odor issue, mildew, etc. I also never close the door. My particular LG model has a feature that lets you close the door mostly, without latching it.
One thing you didn’t mention: I don’t know if all front loaders have them, but at least for mine, you are also supposed to clean the drain pump filter monthly. It really does collect debris — for instance, yesterday mine had several balled up pieces of string as well as a gum wrapper that had somehow made it into the washer.
Personally I have pulled full size socks from my pump filter. The smell was unbearable until I found that and got it removed. Checking this regularly can save your water pump from sudden death let alone the smell.
Where is the pump filter located?
I think they are all generally along the bottom of the washing machine {there should be a little access door} but this will vary from model to model. Just check your owner’s manual or Google search you make and model if you can’t find it. 🙂
Here’s a little hint that helped me drain the pump filter with less mess. There’s usually a small rubber hose with a plastic plug in it inside the access door. You can pull the hose out about 6 or 8 inches. The hose on my machine lands about 2 feet away from the floor drain. I cut a piece of 1/2″ PVC pipe to stretch about 27 inches or so to the floor drain, and when I remove the plug from the hose, I jam it quickly into the PVC and the water runs directly to the drain. Voila.
Thanks so much for the tip!
I have a Samsung and the pump filter is on the bottom left side. Open that little door and you will find the little hose to drain. after it drains, pull out the filter basket. Mine turns to lock and unlock.
I use Tilex Mold and Mildew Remover to clean the rubber gasket and under it. Just spray it in all around under the gasket and within minutes the mold is gone. Then I take a clean white rag, I rinse it out first then proceed to wipe all under the gasket to remove any residue from the mold remover.Another thing I do is pull out the soap and softener drawer after I’m sure I’ve washed my last load.
If you only use 1 TBS of liquuid laundry detergent that is meant for he machines then you won’t have soap residue. Seriously people use WAAAYY too much soap. You only need a little bit. If you seed suds in your machine when you are doing a load then you have used too much soap. I was told this by a Sears appliances store owner.
Yes, I totally agree that people tend to use too much detergent! Just a natural tendency I guess – when things are dirty add more soap! We have cut WAY back on what we use and, combined with the vinegar and wiping down the machine after each use, we have had no further problems. 🙂
The problem is liqued….use the powder…it took me two washing machines to solve the problem , cleaned them smell came back, no problem with smell now that I use only the powder, two years now..
I’ve found the same thing but I do prefer liquid detergent in terms of cleaning effectiveness. One of the main problems with liquid is that people often use too much. The concentrated liquids (and only using the recommended amount) does tend to have better results.
I’m a manager at Sears and you are so right! People use to much soap and need to clean out the drain too.
Where do you find the drain pump filter?
It will probably be different on different machines but it is most often a little compartment on the front/bottom of your machine. Have a shallow pan ready (like a baking dish or cookie sheet) when you are cleaning it to catch any water overflow. Empty the drain and then clear any debris from the filter.
I worked in a hospital laundry for 19 years, a front loader is the best machine you can own. I buy a homemade liquid laundry soap for 20 bucks for a five gal container.I have a whole house water system and a water softener.. I use 1/4 cup of soap for each load of any thing I wash.. I make my own spot remover also. It’s one part clear ammonia,, one part Dawn or a generic degrease r dish soap , and one part water. Put it in a spray bottle and it will take out any stain! For blood stains or stains like baby poop, for blood stains rinse in cold water, spray with half water, half peroxide, same as for poop, throw in the wash as usual, I always use cold water to wash. I only use bleach when i wash my front loader once a month, just run a wash cycle. My machine tells me when to run a clean cycle as needed.
This is a very useful page! would love to be able to make a solution up using “Dawn” but it’s not available in New Zealand.
if you have been using homemade detergent, I would suggest you do a strip of your towels. Dissolve 3 tbsp each of Borax and washing soda in hot water. Add 1/2 cup liquid laundry detergent (preferably Persil or Tide) and 1/2 cup Calgon water softener. Let soak 4 hours, but no longer than 8, agitating occasionally. I have to do this in my tub since a front loader isn’t for soaking things, you will be shocked at how clean your clothes/towels aren’t!
I don’t use homemade detergent but I know many people do. Thanks for the tip!
For regular loads, yup. But lots of us wash diapers and there’s no way a tbs would cut it.
Yes, diapers are probably another story but you could still try experimenting a bit with how much you could decrease your detergent by. You may be surpirsed! 🙂
For heavier soiled items try using, peroxide as a disinfectant and a boost to detergent.
Doesn’t gum up like laundry detergent and much cheaper and gets them whiter.
Great tip! I love stain cleaning with peroxide!
The problem with peroxide is that it will stain colored clothing like a mild bleach…it’s great in whites…
Yes, good point!
20 Mule Team Borax is an excellent detergent booster and mold killer, as well. Also, remember that if you have a septic system, bleach is a no-no.
It has been many years ago that I had to wash cloth diapers but I always would rinse the soiled diaper. Then using a diaper pail with a mixture of Dawn, Baking Soda (you could also use Borax) and water; letting them soak until I had a load. I would wash on hot with my regular detergent and bleach (my children had no problem with bleach use) but I always did a second rinse. At the time I had a top load washer but this method should work the same (probably better) with a front load. I rarely had staining issues.
I always rinse my cloth diapers in the toilet first if they have poop stains, then I do a cold wash cycle with no soap to rinse out all the pee, followed by a heavy-duty cycle with regular detergent and an extra rinse. Works awesome and I don’t have any problems with diaper stink. People get caught up thinking they have to use all natural products for their diapers, but natural detergents leave residue and cause the problem.
sorry – little digression post here from the main topic lol
It’s been a long time since I’ve had to deal with diapers but thanks for all of the tips for the other mommas out there! 🙂
I agree the manufacturers recommendations are set to get you to use the whole box quicker.
Yes, sometimes it is amazing how much less you can get away with! Plus I think our natural tendency is to add even MORE when we have dirty stuff! 🙂
Where is the drain pump filter?
I’m sure it may be different on different models but it is often on the front left corner. Just check your manual if you can’t find it!
Will it be on the bottom?
Never mind I found the answer. Thank you for this post.
Glad you found it! 🙂
And the great thing about taking off the bottom panel to clean the filter is that there is a separate manual there with error codes and how to fix them yourself instead of calling a tech out. If you search your washer model/name with the error code on YouTube you can usually find a video on how to fix any issues.
Thanks! Anytime you can avoid paying for a tech to come out is definitely worth it!
what is a drain pump filter
I’m far from a mechanic, but this is basically the part of the washer that is designed to collect any lint, change, or whatever other debris makes its way into your washing machine. 🙂
Where is the pump filter located? Can’t find the instruction manual for my Whirlpool Duet.
They are all different but here is a link for the Duet…
I have a very efficient and wonderful homemade laundry soap that I use for my front loader…I will gladly give it to anyone who would like it….you can message me on Facebook at Earline beeksma
Thanks so much! I’ve never tried the DIY laundry soap. One of these days… lol!
may I have your home made laundry soap receipt please. Thank you.
I don’t actually use a home made laundry soap. I use Norwex, Method, or Honest. 🙂
I’ve been using the Norwex detergent for about five years. I love it. It takes so little to get things clean.
I like that one too!
Would love this recipe please
After I clean and dry the gasket, I put a small cleaning sponge in the gasket at the front to sop up any water that might run down to the drain holes. This has helped with the mold build up.
Good idea! Thanks for the tip!
great tip…thank you so much
I dry the door when I open, wipe water on gasket and leave it open, always when not in use! no build up or smell! I love your sponge idea!
Where the heck is this filter. I have a front loader washer machine. Although I clean that gasket &keep the door ajar I feel that I need to clean this “filter”. Thanks
There’s usually a little “door” on the front/bottom of the washing machine; however, this can vary from model to model. If you can’t find it, just google your make and model and it should quickly come up!
I have a front loader GE. Older verison. There is no door. You have to take the front lower panel off and it is behind it on the right side. Take a marker and draw a line across the edge to make sure you have it back on right or it will leak. Its a pain but worth it. Thankfully they change that and made a door now.
You’re right I also have the LG front load washer and I always leave the door open slightly and also clean the pump filter which always smells terrible. Good catch by the way Jenn :>)
OK so how do I get odors out of the clothes because 1/2 cup of soap doesn’t mean my laundry smell awesome…?
You can try using some baking soda or vinegar {but not both together} to the wash to help with odors. The problem with using a lot of soap is that extra soap residue left on the clothing will actually attract more dirt and odor. Depending on the type of detergent and your washing machine {i.e. top loader vs. front loader or H.E. vs not}, the amount of detergent that you should use will vary so 1/2 cup might work for one person and not be enough for someone else. It takes a little experimenting to figure out what works best for you. While I usually wash on warm/cold, I will run the machine on hot if the items can take it for extra smelly items.
Completely random question!! What color is your laundry room painted?!
Glad you posted on this. I fairly regularly wipe down the inside of the door and the detergent area. For some reason I never thought to look at the gasket. I started a while ago and I kind of want to cry. It’s so nasty and filled with sludge. I have it soaking currently. No mold that I can see though. But the little drain holes are blocked by sludge. Any extra tips beyond letting sit with a vinegar soaked towel?
On a good note I did some regular drain maintenance with vinegar and water as well as got some other general things done and cooking. So i kind of feel accomplished.
I can’t wait until I can get rid of my front loader and I definitely won’t buy another one.
I will never buy a front loader i want my top loader back. Doesn’t get my clothes clean and the whites look gray. Never had that problem with my top loader. Hate is a strong word, but I hate my top loader.
OMG! I absolutely HATE my May Tag Netune hi end expensive front loader! You CANNOT get a load of clothes clean in a very small amount of water! It is like bathing in a cup of water. Who ever heard of “washing/cleaning” a washing machine?? I had an avocado green top loading May Tag for 37, yes thirty seven years and never ever had to clean it inside! BTW it was still going strong but such an ugly colour we decided to put it down. BIGGEST LARGE APPLIANCE MISTAKE WE HAVE MADE IN 43 YEARS!
I owned a front loader and it was the biggest mistake of our lives. We had it for 2 years and replaced to front seal 4 times! I now own a agitator less top loader and love it! I have had it for 3 years and have never had a problem. I notice that you only showed the front loading machine in this tutorial. Is there anything special I need to know about cleaning a top loading machine!
I actually love our front loader now that I have worked out all of the kinks! I don’t have a tutorial for a top loader but my friend Anna has a great one: http://askannamoseley.com/2012/04/spring-cleaning-cleaning-your-washing-machine/ Hope that helps! 🙂
add some baking soda to the wash, it helps clean and brighten your clothes.
I agree. I hate my front-loader and can’t wait to get rid of it, On another note. Besides leaving the door open I also raise up the soap dispenser (as if I am cleaning it) so that can get air and dry out.
I so agree – I miss my GE top loading washing machine. It had a mini basket for washing delicate fabrics plus you could do loads for less than 20 minutes and there was a soaking cycle.. I think the front loaders use up way too much time and maintaining them is a lot more that a top loading machine.
There are definitely pros and cons to each but once I figured things out, I love my front loader and wouldn’t go back.
I wanted to invite you to the Friday Flash Blog Party, the best linky in town! I hope you’ll join us and link up. Who knows. You may just get highlighted!
The party goes on through Monday.
Jennifer @ The Jenny Evolution
http://www.thejennyevolution.com
Thanks so much for sharing this little tutorial! If you the the chance, I’d love for you to share it over at Tell Me Tuesday: http://www.aromaofhim.com/2013/09/tell-me-tuesday.html
Have a wonderful week!
Alicia
Hello, where do I pour the 2 cups of vinegar into, when running the 2nd complete Cycle? Directly into the drum or the laundry detergent Dispenser? Many thanks!
Boy oh boy, I thought I cleaned mine all the time but I swear I never knew you could fold that gasket back. Gross!
Yikes! I don’t even want to look behind mine…ugh! But thanks for the info!
Thanks for this. It will be very helpful. My new washing machine is as bad at 6months old as my old one was at 10yrs. Must be something in the design!
Just tried to click on the ‘first post’ link and got a 404 error. Not sure why!
Kathleen Mc xx
Hi Kathleen,
I just switched over to WP a couple of days ago from blogger so all of my links are broken. 🙁 I’ll have to go back in and manually fix them all but things will get better once the design is completed!
Even manufacturors admit that things are just not built like they were in the “old days” but taking a little extra time to care for our appliances can definitely go a long way!
Have a great day!
Jenn 🙂
That makes sense. Looks like you’ve created a lot of work for yourself. Will come back when all the links are working!
Kathleen Mc xx
I have another helpful hint. After I am done doing laundry, I remove the detergent dispenser drawer and let it dry upside down
on a towel on top of washer. You will be amazed how much water is left inside after the washer shuts off. It will keep mold and mildew from forming in the drawer area.
Smart! Thanks so much for the tip! 🙂
I am on my second front loader. The first sold with my house. I have never seen mold like that on either one ever, and trust me when I say I don’t clean my washer that often. I do leave the door open a lot of the time and always until it’s dry. I also have one of those small ceiling fans in my laundry room which is actually more of a laundry hallway. I use it to dry clothes that I hang up in there that I don’t put in the dryer. I also rarely use bleach. I don’t know why yours gets so colorful.
I think the main problem with ours was that the kids socks would get stuck in the rubber gaskets during the cleaning cycle. They would be absolutely soaked in there (they obviously didn’t go through the spin cycle at the end which gets rid of a lot of water) and I did not always remember to check it when I transferred the clothes to the dryer. I rarely use bleach either as I usually just try to stick with vinegar. had to pull out the big guns this time though as the vinegar was not strong enough! 🙂
Since having my beautiful baby girl, I had to trouble shoot the tiny sock issue myself. I kept ending up with two or three dirty looking soggy socks and washable nursing pads stuck in the gasket. I found that sticking them all in a lingerie bag works perfectly (the small mesh bags with a zipper). I even use it for my own “no show” socks, as they would occasionally get struck in the gasket too.
I try to do that too when I can but I usually forget. 😉
My laundry machine does this too and I’ve not been able to get rid of the mold/mildew completely. I was told you have to be careful what you use on rubber so I didn’t try bleach other than just rubbing it a little. I used the machine washer detergent I bought at Sears a few times, which was a total waste of money. I’ll try what you suggested and see how it goes. Some front loading machines are made better than others. We have a Maytag Neptune, I believe the first year they made these (2003 anyway when we moved in our house) and it’s terrible with the mold and mildew. A friend of ours had the same issue and sold theirs. I heard the next model was designed better.
Any help for top loading machines? I have a dog and I find hair around the top of the tub in between washer case and tub itself. I know ther is more hair build up it can’t see but were do I look and how do I clean? Always leave the lid open as soon as I take the wet clothes out and spray Lysol immediately into deum
I don’t have any personal tips for you on the top loader since I have always had a front loader to clean. Here’s a link I found though on cleaning your top loader – hope this helps! http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2012/04/how-to-clean-your-top-loader-washing.html
Hello,
Where do I out the 2x cups of vinegar please? In the drum or in the draw?
Just put it where you would typically put the detergent. 🙂
Smart person who designed these newer washing machines
I have a ten year old Frigidaire perfection++love it…..
As the saying goes…”They don’t build them like they used to!” 😉
I am in need of a new top load washing machine. Just wondering what brands people have and if they have liked them. Thx!
Did you know there’s a filter inside the bottom panel of the front loader too!!!
YEP!
I cleaned my washer but the smell kept coming back, then I goggled it & sure enough, a filter was clogged! Of course it’s not in the owners manual since the company wants you to call service out!!!
I clean mine out 2-3 times a year.
Sometime if the machine is not level it will not drain the water properly, I have had two front loaders and have never had an odor problem and very little mold
That’s a good point. We are now mold and odor free so luckily I don’t need to worry about that! 🙂
We have no visible moold, have recently cleaned the drain filter and STILL CANT GET RID OF THE SMELL. We’ve run the sanitize and pure cycles numerous times nad nothing seems to get rid of it completely. How did you do it?
For me, the mold actually wasn’t the main source of the stink…did you read this post? https://www.cleanandscentsible.com/2010/08/tueday-tidbits.html There are more ideas there for getting rid of the smell that worked for me. Let me know if those tips still don’t work!
We actually replaced a gasket because it was impossible to keep mold free once it started. My grandmother has the exact model that we do and she never wipes it out and has never had an issue. She lives in upstate New York, I live in North Carolina….. I think the climate has something to do with it.
Yes, I am sure weather is a definite factor!
I only replaced my gasket once. I didn’t want to pay $130 the second time! I wipe mine out and leave the door open but it still molds.
I always leave the door ajar, and I use white vinegar in my fabric softener compartment when I do each load. The vinegar softens cloths naturally, removes soap residue from your cloths, keeps whites white, sets your colors, and keeps the drum spotless. Many, many benefits!
How much viniger do you use?
About a cup!
You use vinager in each load? Doesnt it give it a bad smell?
I use vinegar when I run my towels as a fabric softener or if I have an extra stinky load. You would think that there would be a smell but there is absolutely none and it works great as a fabric softener! 😉
I also use white vinegar as a water softener and rinse aid. I will NEVER use commercial fabric softener again. My towels are lofty and smell soooo fresh and CLEAN!!! Using Downy or other commercial fabric softener is like using conditioner in your hair and not rinsing it out. Even though the smell of fabric softener smells good initially it will build up in your towels and clothing. When I switched to white vinegar I was shocked! After about 2-3 launderings my towels were so much fuller and smelled sooo fresh! Everyone noticed…and another great perk…the washer stays fresh!! I have had it for 3 years…no smells or sludge build up!
Wow, I’ve NEVER had a mold problem and mine is ~ 10 yrs old. However, I notice in your pic that the door is almost closed. Mine is always WIDE open, and I put the machine thru its cleaning cycle religiously on the 1st of every month, as suggested in the manual. My washer is located in a damp basement to boot 🙂
I now have the mold thing figured out and give the rubber gasket a quick wipe after each cycle. I am a bit of a neat freak so I couldn’t handle having my washer door open as it is up on our main floor and I would see it all the time. 🙂 I wash my washing machine about once every 6 months with the vinegar and haven’t had a problem since.
We’ve had our LG front load for about four years, and we will never buy another one. It does not clean clothing well, and it’s very noisy. I have had the mold issues as well and do wipe out the gasket occasionally. It’s difficult to get to all of it, as you can’t see it all the way around (above and sides). It’s disappointing that after spending the money we did for this machine that it has these kinds of issues. I’m sure it will be be hard to get rid of after people read reviews about it.
After figuring out a solution for the mold, we have been pretty happy with our washer. I don’t really notice it being particularly loud {although it is in a separate room} and I haven’t had issues with it not getting clothes cleaned. I wonder if the models are different? Hope you are able to find one that you like better! 🙂
All washing machines need to have one load a week washed in hot water and bleach.Pick a load. I do all white bath mats. My washer is never filthy, it never stinks and has never grown mold. I own an appliance repair company. We charge for repairs that could have been avoided if the owners had just followed the owners manual. I have stopped trying to figure why people do not believe this simple requirement. Don’t get me wrong I am thankful for the work, but it is unreal that I can scedule a technition and be able to tell them ahead of time that the unit needs cleaning because there is a nasty build up of soap scum, that the owner never washes in hot, and that we have been to this house before for the same problem. Right there on their copy of the invoice from two years ago, will be the written solution …”caused by never washing in hot water.” Go figure.
One load a week in hot water and bleach is much less expensive than a service call.
When we first got our LG front loader, we thought it was doing a terrible job. Then we started doing slightly smaller loads and only using one of the Tide pods, and our clothes are clean and fresh, always.
Yes, you definitely need to watch about overloading a washing machine. In addition to the extra wear on the machine, it also makes it harder for everything to drain properly and can lead to that stinky smell!
Your machine may not be level. Our machine started making a lot of noise after it got moved slightly- once moved back and level it is quiet again.
I agree Andrea (April 7,14) Since I have started using homemade laundry detergent and only vinegar as a fabric softener I have had no mold or mildew problems at all in my front loading washer. Gasket is always clean. Before it was always a problem and now have not had one problem in the two years I have gone totally homemade and vinegar.
Yes, the laundry detergent {and how much you use!} can make a HUGE difference!
I was wondering if I could get the recipe for the homemade laundry soap or a name of a natural laundrysoap?
Thanks.
I haven’t tried any of the homemade detergents but have tried a number of natural commercial detergents. My favorite is the Norwex powder. It is a little pricey but you really don’t need much so it goes A LONG way!
Have you ever taken out the drawer that you put the soap in and looked at the top of where you pull it out from? Take out the drawer and then get down and look up at the ” ceiling ” where the drawer stays. I just about fainted. It was coated with thick mold!!! I finally got it cleaned!!!
Hi! If your looking for a bleach alternative to get rid of mold try a mixer of clove oil and water. 2 or 3 table spoons diluted in 300ml spray bottle. Soak for a few minutes and then wipe/ lightly scrub. It kills both active mold and spores and its 100% natural.
Thanks! I haven’t heard of that one before. 🙂
Holy wow. Thanks for posting this. My husband and baby are out of town, and I have gone on a crazy-lady cleaning tear. I only use natural cleaners when our son is home, but it felt SO GOOD to melt that scum with bleach! (I live in soggy, humid, NC and I’ve had this washer for almost 5 years. You can imagine the “before” picture…ewww).
Glad that it helped! Now that I know it can be a problem, I just wipe it after every load and use vinegar for cleaning and I have had no more problems. Isn’t it funny that we decide to CLEAN when our husband and kids go out of town? 😉
You have saved my sanity. We live in a humid, chilly area and mold is a huge issue. My husband had this front loader before we married and it was nasty. I’ve been desperate to get rid of the mold, especially with our toddlers having skin issues. It looks like this has done the trick. I’m giving it a bleach bath again in a couple of days (it was that bad), but it looks SO much better now. And we’re switching to homemade detergent, as well. The washing machine is going to be a dream. 🙂 Thank you for this!
So glad it worked for you!
Just one question — Do you use plain white vinegar as a rinse agent in the fabric softener dispenser? I know that it is used for cleaning and am thinking about using it for the rinse, but wanted to know if you need a special vinegar or just plain white.
Also, I used the Affresh brand of washer cleaner that is recommended for/by the washer manufacturer and couldn’t get rid of the moldy smell for more than one or two loads. I got tired of wasting money and bought the store brand cleaner that does an entire wash/rinse cycle and got rid of the problem, and it coast about 1/3 of the price of Affresh. And I never shut my door tight.
Yes – just plain white vinegar. If I am wanting to actually clean the machine or have an extra smelly load of towels or something, I will put the vinegar in the detergent dispenser. Vinegar also works as a great fabric softener though too so you can add it to the fabric softener dispenser in place of fabric softener.
Great tips!
I too have had problems with odor in my front load washer… I am blaming it on too concentrated fabric softener… so I diluted it down and also cut back on amount of soap use and the odor is gone… did all that after I scrubbed the gasket super clean and ran the washer with vinegar and baking soda and bleach not all together but separately…
It is not a good idea to use too much vinegar on a regular basis. I have seen too many seals deteriorate from vinegar. The best thing to do is leave the door slightly open to air out the machine and weekly wipe the boot with a bleach water mixture. Mold will occur all around the boot. The amount of detergent to use depends on the type of clothing. A box that says gets 20 loads should give you 80 plus. I was a warranty serviceman for Mile, Bosch, AEG, ASKO, Whirlpool, GE, Maytag and many more and have over 25 years front load experience. Try a 1.2 cup of Dishwasher detergent once per month to help keep arears you cant see clean. I have seen a lot of mould hidden in machines
Thanks for the tips!
i have been reading many of these comments because I have had many issues with actually getting clothes clean and absolutely hate my front loader!!! I always leave the door open, wipe the gasket and clean the filters. The machine itself has never had mold or mildew or smelled at all. I’ve actually had a repair man tell me it’s the cleanest machine he’s ever seen at someone’s house. I don’t use any detergent on towels. I use baking soda and vinegar. It’s better than detergent because they smell musty after 3 days now instead of just one shower use. If I had any perfume on or my husband had cologne, the whole load smells like that when it’s done. Nothing ever seems clean. I’ve been told once it was too much detergent, so I now use about 1/8 cup and it’s still the same. My running clothes I actually soak in a 5 gallon bucket before I wash them just so the get clean. I’ve asked GE about this and I’ve always been told they don’t know why…any suggestions?????? Just about anybody else I talk to doesn’t have this issue.
Well that doesn’t sound fun! I’ve never really had any issues with my clothes not getting clean so I am not sure how much help I will be. I usually use a powdered detergent, 1 cup vinegar if it is a stinky load, and 1 cup vinegar for a fabric softener. For the detergent, have you tried both liquid and powder? I find that my machine is usually cleaner with the powders – depending on what brand you are using 1/8 cup sounds low for getting a good clean – especially for gym clothes. Different brands can make a huge difference. Have you tried washing with the machine only partially filled to see if things get cleaned better when they have more room or washing on the highest temperature setting that your clothing allows? Wash boosters like Oxiclean might be something else to try along with the detergent. I am also interested in how you wash your towels with the baking soda and vinegar. These will neutralize each other when mixed together and just create a salt so if you are mixing them together you are just basically washing with salt and water. Good luck in finding a solution – maybe you just have a lemon of a machine!
I’ve had my Kenmore front loader for 11 years now and don’t have any problems with it not getting my clothes clean or with the machine having any kind of odor as I leave the door open after each use. But many years ago I had well water that was very hard and my clothes were not coming clean in my Kenmore top loader – no matter what I did and at that time I was washing diapers. I tried every type of detergent and additive along with bleach but nothing got my clothes clean and they smelled of either cologne or body odor. It was terrible not to say the least. Then someone told me to get a water softener and immediately after my very first wash my clothes were clean and smelling great. That was three houses and three washing machines ago and since then I have always had a water softener in my home. I believe the soft water not only gets my clothes clean but it keeps my machine clean. So JENBADGERO you may just have hard water and maybe it is not your front loading washing machine.
Good idea! I’m interested to hear if this helps!
Great post! But reading this now makes me nervous about using the front loading machines in my apartment buildings basement. Was always used to using a top loader so didn’t realize how gross the front loaders can get!
Yes, I never even thought about that. Try using an old cloth to wipe down the gaskets before you use it. Maybe management could put up a little sign to have people leave the door slightly ajar? That makes a big difference!
How do you clean the filter??
To clean the filter, get a shallow pan ready to catch any water overflow and a rag to mop up any excess water. Open up the filter compartment {it is a little door on the front/bottom left of my machine}. Unplug the hose and allow it to drain to empty any water {don’t pull the hose out too far}. Plug it back up and put it back in place. Next unscrew the filter and take out any lint or debris. You can hand wash it with water {and dish soap if needed} and then put everything back in place. Hope that helps!
I’m asking about the advice to leave the door slightly open. That would mean the interior light would be on all the time. And I’m betting my cat would crawl in, too!
I’m curious about the advice to leave the door slightly open. That would mean the interior light would be on …. and the cat would probably climb in!!
It would depend on your model. We don’t actually have a light in the washing machine – just the dryer. For ours we can just leave it open a crack, although I know others need to be left open more or they will shut on their own. If you can’t leave it open, just make sure you give the gaskets a good drying when you are done – it just takes a few seconds to wipe it down. 🙂
To keep the door from shutting all the way, I just hang a folded towel over my door when not in use.
Thanks for the tip! Ours will stay slightly ajar without being propped open but I know some models are different.
i HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM ALSO i KEEP WIPING DOWN THE INSIDE TOO AND LEAVING DOOR A LITTLE OPEN. YOU CAN ALSO GET THIS PROBLEM WITH TOP LOADERS IF YOU WERE ONLY TO SEE THE SIDES OF THE MACHINE IN THE VERY INSIDE FROM PEOPLE USING TOO MUCH SOAP. PULL THE DRUM A LITTLE SIDEWAYS AND CLEAN THE RUBBER THERE ALSO. iT TURNS TO LIKE A GREASE (DARK GREY)IF YOU EVER SEE THIS ON YOUR CLOTHES THEN THIS IS THE CAUSE
I used to leave my door open on my front loading washer to allow it to dry properly but twice now I have come into a flooded room. Once I was fortunate enough to arrive as the water was flooding out of the washer and was able to shut the door before the room flooded. I know this is the source of the flooding. This was not water backing up from the sewer but perfectly clean water. I mop up the flood with clean towels, run them through the washer, which seems to be functioning properly except for the problem of randomly and unexpectedly flooding the room on occasion. Is this a common problem with front loading washers?
I have never heard of that before. Have you had it checked out by a technician? Definitely not something that should be occurring! 😉
I have an LG front loader with the same issues most of you have mentioned. When I called my service repair person AND again when they came out to the house, they told me that they can immediately tell the difference between those using LIQUID detergent and those using POWDER – they said the ones using liquid get clogged up and grimy way faster than powder. They suggested never to use liquid and to put less laundry in the basin for awhile. Running the tub clean cycle with bleach, like many said, is also recommended in the owners manual, as is always wiping the gasket after every load. Now I need to go check the under and back side of the drawer!!!!!
Yes, I totally noticed a difference when I switched to powder {I use Norwex}. For the gasket, I try to wipe it down every time but do notice if I miss a few times. The gunk can build up fast and the kids socks always get stuck in there!
I also use Norwex detergent and have NEVER had any mold or smell. I was told most detergents contain animal fats, and that’s what spoils. I wipe out the gasket every time and leave the door open with the special latch. My washer tells me to run a clean cycle every 50 loads with a lot of bleach. Since I don’t have a problem, I just use a little bleach. I’ve had my front loader a year now, and no problems at all. I love it.
I often use Norwex detergent too – I just find it doesn’t work quite as well on our whites over time. I think one of the other things with detergents is that people are just using too much of it {and the way the bottles are designed seem to promote this}. 😉
Totally agree about using powder instead of liquid. I live in England where front loaders are pretty much standard. I had a horrible mildew smell in the machine which nothing would shift – tried vinegar, over the counter washing machine cleaners, bleach, hottest wash. In the end I found a comment on a message board somewhere about how much liquid detergent builds up. Switched to powder and the smell had gone within a week. Plus it’s cheaper.
Yep! I do still occasionally use liquid but I try to stick with powder as much as possible.
When you use powder detergent versus liquid, do you put in in the soap dispenser as you would liquid? Or do you simply throw it in the drum with the clothes? Someone told me after I got my front loader that if you use powder detergent in it you void the warranty-as my warranty is now done, I would like to switch to Norwex but to my knowledge they only have powdered detergent.
I have never heard that powdered detergent will void a warranty but I guess different models may be different. I mix mine up in some water and then put it in the soap dispenser. The powdered ones are much more economical as you are not paying for all of that water weight for shipping. 🙂
If you dilute the softener you use and don’t over fill the tray it wont happen so often.Cheers Sean
When I am finished with my washing I always turn the taps to my machine off till next time. There Is always water in the hoses and flooding can occur if they break and cause a large insurance claim sometimes..
That sounds like a lot of work! It would be a huge pain to access mine.
luckily for me the connection to the hose is easy to turn off for me … Thanks.
I use either a 1/4 c peroxide or baking soda and vinegar in my whites and towels and so far (15 yrs) no odor or mildew probs
I had one of the first Kenmore front loaders and managed to get “the smell from hell” in it. I tried many methods to get the smell out, too many to post here. and finally succeeded. There is a website called smelly washer.com that I bought some powder from that seemed to work the best. I researched for hours and came across some common threads on how not to get the smell back. I now have a newer set (Samsung – love them), and no problems. Here’s my tips: 1. Use powder detergent only; I have used Charlies soap (one Tbsp) for about eight years now and can testify it works very well. 2. Sorry, no fabric softener. I use vinegar with a little essential oil added so my clothes don’t smell like a salad. 3. Wipe down gaskets every few uses, and leave the door cracked open if you can. Eight years, mold and smell free.
I recently ran out of laundry detergent and was desperate to finish the last load of clothes, which were my husbands work jeans. He is a machinist and his clothes always have the smell of oil . I put 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of lemon juice in with the clothes in hopes that it would get them a little clean. I put it on heavy load with hot cycle and extra soak cycle . I was amazed when I pulled them out how clean they were! I have tried oxi clean I used tide I always washed in hot water, but never have they come out so fresh smelling! I only do it with his work jeans but I may jus try it on the rest of my clothes to see what happens.
We experienced the same problems with our front loading washing and after doing all of the suggestions aforementioned, we still had an odor.
We later discovered the real problem after calling the manufacturer … the drainage filter must be cleaned monthly.
For LG washers, the drainage filter is located in the front, lower left hand corner of the washer. Make sure you place a few towels on the floor when you unscrew the drainage filter. Be prepare for the smell if you’ve never cleaner the filter before.
We now clean the filter regularly and no more smell. Mind you we still clean the rubber parts as well but the main problem/smell is finally gone!
I wipe out the gasket with bleach wipes, and that helps between cleanings. we have a septic tank and was told not to use bleach that will go out the drain. This will destroy the good bacteria needed for proper operation of the septic system.
I have done this twice, but still have that black junk on the side and top of my ring. Any suggestions how I can get those spots? I tried putting the towels there and spraying them to keep them moist, but they do not go away! I know this works though, because my ring is clean on the bottom.
If it worked on the bottom {which is generally the worst spot} but not the sides and top, it probably has more to do with the lack of pressure on these areas compared to gravity helping out on the bottom. Are the towels packed in tightly with the bleach? I’d just try repeating and then scrubbing to see if it starts to come off. Hope that helps!
I also use Clorox wipes frequently to wipe out the drum & gasket.
What kind of powder would I use for a top loader? I thought I had to use liquid.
You can use powder in a top loader too. There are many different kinds out there – I like the Norwex powder but any kind should work. You do generally have to use more detergent in a top loader than a front load so check to see what the guidelines are.
do you put the 2 cups of vinegar in the machine itself and then run it or do you put it in where the detergent goes?
I put it where the detergent goes.
Love my front load washer–gets the clothes so much cleaner. One very simple step in preventing mildew from forming is LEAVE THE DOOR OPEN when not in use. When it’s closed the moisture is trapped. I also wash a white load with bleach once a week and all loads I use 1/2 C vinegar in the softener dispenser, removes soup residue from your clothes leaving them soft. Haven’t needed to do a thorough cleaning yet.
Another thing that really helps is to use powder detergent instead of liquid. I was told by our sales person at Lowe’s that liquid detergent tends to leave more residue than powder. I truly notice a huge difference!
Yes! I totally agree! We just ran out of powder and my hubby picked up some liquid packs by mistake and after a few loads I could totally tell the difference.
Makr sure to wear a mask when dealing with mold! I have asthma and this is important for me to do, so I will not have an asthma attack!
I also pull the soap dispenser to dry completely, leave the washer door ajar but most helpful, I throw in a dryer sheet after doing laundry. It must absorbed orders because I no longer have a smelly problem. Every couple om months I wipe down the gaskets with Llysol disinfecting wipes.
I too am one of those who HATE MY FRONT LOADER!! Agree with the do not get clothes clean and make them dull. HATE IT HATE IT HATE IT!!!
Worse part is they were over 2000$ with the pedestals . Gonnna be awhile til I can afford to get back to the top loaders, unless some really nice person comes along and take these off my hands for $1200 . They are LG
Any takers????
can you do a pictorial of cleaning the drain pump filter
I can try next time I clean mine. I imagine they will be different for different models though.
I have not read any reviews on using the soap pods for a front load washer?
I’m not sure about those. I like to add my own detergent so I can adjust it depending on the load and dirt level. 😉
I have a front loader with an odd odor issue. It runs well and smells normal until you take out the wet clothes. Then the clothes have a oil/mechanical odor. It goes away when the clothes are dried. The washer never smells, just the wet clothes. It has been going on for 2 weeks now. No changes with soap or water. I had a technician in and he couldn’t find any issue. I ran a couple of hot loads and then the cleaning tablets. And no, we didn’t wash any clothes with grease or oil on it. I will try vinegar next, but wondered if you had heard of this before or had any other ideas. Never had any mold or mildew issues.
Strange. I have never had any issues with an oil-type odor. There is nothing different in your water that you have noticed – maybe increased iron? Given that the machine does not smell and the odor in the clothes goes away when dried, something with the water would be my best guess. I’m curious to know if the vinegar made any difference. P.S. I have never had any success with those cleaning tablets!
How do you check to see if there is build-up of detergent? I started to use powder detergent but when I tried to put the liquid holder back in, the detergent does not drain and is just filled with water. Any suggestions?
On my machine, the detergent container will come right out so you can clean it and see if there is anything jammed in behind it. I’m not quite sure what you mean about putting the liquid holder back in. If you are using powder, you can either mix it with some water prior to putting it in the liquid holder or place it directly into the machine. Just let me know if I didn’t understand your question correctly. 😉
So many great ideas and love your responses. I was gonna ask for a new washer in 2015. But will try all these tips first. But, then, a new washer sounds nice. I would love one with more cycles!
lol! Yes, a newer washer is always nice! 🙂
I wish I had done more investigating about front loading washers before I bought one. I will never ever ever have another one in my house. Expensive mistake.
Sorry you don’t like yours. 🙁 Now that I have figured mine out, I am quite happy with it and will likely be sticking with a front loader.
I wipe out around the rubber ring after every use. This next tip might sound extreme but, I keep a blow dryer by the dryer and completely dry out the inside of the rubber ring. It really needs to be completely dry! And I always keep the door open.
Lol! Wow! You are dedicated! I find mine is okay as long as I remember to wipe and I do keep the door slightly ajar. 😉
Thank you so much for this! I inherited my front loader from a family member who wanted to go back to a top loader, so it had been sitting unused for a while and had a horrible mold buildup. I finally found your post here and my washing machine is so clean and pretty now. I had tried about anything I could think of except bleach…don’t know why I didn’t earlier. THANK YOU!!!!
Oh good!! So glad it worked out for you. Thanks for letting me know! 🙂
Bleach and/or vinegar only kills 70-75% of molds. Borax kills 99%, including black mold, and also prevents mold from returning. Just mix with water according to the package directions and wipe out the machine the same as you would with the bleach. Borax also can be used in a liquid solution for multiple cleaning purposes in the home, and it can be used in Powder form to repel or kill insect pests such as roaches and ants. However, you must be careful not to use it around pets, as certain animals can get borax poisoning. Borax can also be used to remove odor from laundry, as can washing soda.
Since I have an HE machine, I use half the amount recommended on the box and it works fine.
Thanks for the tips!
Well I never….I never thought so many people could say so many things about a washing machine…..
I have had my ASCO front loader for thirteen years….I didn’t even know you had to clean it except for the filter….and you can be pretty sure I won’t be starting….it gets a good wash every time I use it.
lol! To each their own! Glad that you are happy with your front loader, but I find mine works way better with just a little TLC. 😉
Thanks so much for this! I’ve been living in Switzerland where front-loaders are the norm since 1995, and I never had any mold issue until kids (TMI alert: I’m guessing the poo that got stuck in the rubber gasket at one time didn’t help — far worse than getting a small sock stuck, which I know has also happened). I will be cleaning the washer today as part of my spring cleaning. :o)
Yep that probably doesn’t help! lol! Thanks for reading all the way from Switzerland – I love hearing where everyone is from! 🙂
please, can you repost your how-to your cleaning redjumin for top load washers. Yes, the laundry room smells gross at times when the washer starts a cycle, and the clothes come out of the dryer with a funky smell, which sometimes is so hard to get rid of that I end up throwing the clothes away.
Thank you!
I don’t have a post on how to clean a top loader since I don’t own one to try things out on; however, my friend Anna has a great tutorial for this:
http://askannamoseley.com/2012/04/spring-cleaning-cleaning-your-washing-machine/
Hope that helps!
I bought my first front loader 15 years ago and never had the smell, rubber liner issue. In fact it washed closed so much better. 4 years ago it quit on me and bought a new one. The new one has always had a problem with odors in the clothes. Started trying out different detergents and and found Gain to be the best. But also the cheaper ones seem to do better at cleaning and no after smells. No clue why.
I do clean the rubber sealer about once a month. Use a tooth brush and watered down Dawn. Then wipe it with a cloth.
Have cleaned the gasket many times, not on a schedule. It does the job for catching animal hair, etc. Be careful when pulling the hose out and uncapping. Make sure you have the low pan there, no pedestal under mine which means little gravity for draining. If yours is high, then a pan or bowl to reach the tube works. It takes a while to drain, I walk away until all water is gone. Don’t open the gasket until you do this, you will have a flood.
For those looking to go back to a top loader…from what I have read they are now making them with the same concept as the front loader. I’d hurry to find one now like we use to have.
Thanks for the tips! I have seen a few new fancy washers coming out that are going back to top loaders – I was wondering what the quality would be like on those. They just don’t make ’em like they used to! 😉
Okay, I totally have this problem! I’m going to try your techniques listed here. Thanks for the tips. I want my after picture to look like yours (my before looks like yours). 🙂
I couldn’t figure out why my clothes were smelling moldy as if I had left them in the washer for days, even though I put them in and pull them straight out. I cleaned the drum, rubber ring in front and dispenser regularly, I even pull the dispenser out and clean the bottom of the inside BUT I HAVE NEVER LOOKED UP after inside the dispenser area. My daughter did and there was a quarter of an inch think layer of BLACK MOLD growing inside. I could never see it because I never looked up. I scrubbed it with bleach, Fabuloso and a tooth brush and had to squirt with a spray bottle to get it all to come off BUT it did and now my clothes smell nice the way they should BUT I tell you this to say DON’T forget to look up in your dispenser area. I have before and after pics if you want to see what I am talking about.
Yes, it always seems like there is at least one spot that we forget about! Thanks for the reminder!
I read every question and answer on this page. I am so thankful for the advice. I did find that nasty stuff under the gasket on the bottom, which led me to the top and sides. I used bleach and a toothbrush so scrub it off. It wasn’t black mold, it was nasty brown slimy stuff. I heard all the comments about the smell, mine smells like rotten eggs when I start the washer for the first load. I find the smell coming out of the drain hose in the laundry sink, not the little hose that drains the water from the filter. I have only been using Tide liquid detergent and Downy softener.
I guess my question is, about the powder detergent do I just put it in with the clothes? Also how much baking soda? you had said in a comment to put 2C of vinegar in the soap dispenser, doesn’t that over flow it? where does the excess go? I don’t know how to pull the dispenser drawer out to clean it and up inside. After reading all these comments, I don’t know what to try first. I think I’ll go back to your original tutorial and get it all nice and clean first. Then I’ll switch to powder detergent and I’ll try vinegar in place of Downy. Thank you and everyone else for all the hints to help.
I also have a Samsung and I am not too happy with it. I really miss my top loader with the agitator that used to beat the dirt out of clothes, especially the whites.
I actually like my washer now that I have figured it out but I do agree that the whites are a little trickier to get white!
For my machine, the detergent dispenser just goes directly into the washing machine so it does not actually sit in holding until the machine starts. If you think yours won’t hold two cups, just pour it in slowly and you can always just add the rest directly into the washing machine. The fabric softener dispenser, on the other hand, will hold about 1 cup of liquid. I think part of the problem with the liquid detergent is that we tend to use too much, so if you like your Tide, you can try just cutting back a bit and see how it goes. If you siwtch to powder, you can either mix it in with water and put it in your soap dispenser or place it directly into the machine. Don’t get overwhelmed with everything – just start with the basic cleaning and go from there. Just wiping down the gasket really quickly after each load and leaving the door open makes a HUGE difference and takes less than a minute! Hope that helps!
Thank you for your reply. I will try cutting back and I have decided that as soon as I use all my liquid detergent up, I’ll switch to powder. The same goes for Downy.
Very Interesting. I have a front loader – 8 years old – bought washer and dryer for $200.00 total – someone was getting a divorce and I lucked out. No complaints – lots less soap. I would keep this appliance over all others if I had to choose. My bottle of detergent lasts forever . One item: I have used dishwasher powder in washing my “whites” (occasionally) and I am gold I have the whitest clothes in town. Might give it a try!. Thanks!!!!!!!
I love my front loader now too – just needed to learn how to use it properly! Good tip for the dishwasher powder as I know one of the complaints with front loaders is that the whites tend to get a bit dingy over time. How much dishwasher powder do you use for a load?
I’d like to know also how much to use? I’m still confused about the powdered detergent. I need to remove the liquid detergent dispenser? I thought I read that on here. Then I just use how much powder detergent? And I put it right in with the clothes? And how much vinegar in the rinse and I put it in the fabric softener dispenser? I thought I read on here about baking soda, what is that used for again. My front loader is just 3 years old. I do drain the filter, and I never knew about using old towels on the mold under the rubber gasket. I didn’t know I can soak a rag with bleach, wasn’t sure if I could use it, so thanks for that! I am going in for surgery soon, and I want to get my machine in top shape before I go in so my family can use my machine while I recover. I appreciate any help, I will print it all out so I won’t have to ask again!
For the powdered detergent, you will need to follow the directions on the packaging as all detergents are different. Just make sure to follow the guidelines and not use too much. You generally just put the powdered detergent directly into the drum with the clothes but you can mix with water and place it in the detergent dispenser if you would like. I had mentioned removing the detergent dispenser to clean it but you do not remove this permanently.
For the vinegar, if you are CLEANING the machine, use 2 cups directly into the machine or in the detergent dispenser. If you are using the vinegar in place of fabric softener, use approximately 1 cup of vinegar and place it in the fabric softener dispenser.
I hope that helps! Good luck with your surgery.
Thanks, this is the information I wasn’t clear on. This has helped me a lot.
Thank you also for the well wishes. Hopefully it will all go well and I’ll be back to myself in no time.
My washer is a couple years old and does not have a clean out filter. I keep my door open and have never had a smell or dirty gasket. I have switched 8 months ago to Norwex and vinegar for softener. I have had a front loader before this one for 15 years and never a smell or dirty gasket. While talking about laudry any suggestions on how to get out grease spots or tomato stains. Dawn dish soap and rewarding works but what takes it out on the first wash.
Are you looking for something that will get it out without spot treating it at all? Maybe try adding some OxiClean powder in as well with loads that have stains and see if that works? I generally try to spot clean except for those items that make it through without me noticing. 😉
I’ve had a front loader since 2004 and it has never smelled. Occasionally I wipe the gasket out with a paper towel but it never looked like the picture did in this example. I use hot water for whites and cold for light and dark colors. Occasionally I use choline bleach on my whites. I have used white vinegar instead of liquid fabric softener for about 15 years (even in my top loader) and I only use liquid detergent so it doesn’t gum up in the dispenser. But I think the real reason my front loader has never smelled is because after doing laundry I always keep the door ajar so the inside dries out and does not get stinky. I would never have a top loader since having a front loader. It uses so much less soap and water and is so much easier on my clothes.
Do you put the vinegar in the machines detergent dispenser or put in the actual clothes part
You can do either for cleaning the machine. I generally put it in the detergent dispenser.
Brooke, I only use the vinegar in my fabric softener dispenser. I think it helps cut the oils from the clothing and helps get the soap residue from the clothing and the inside of the washing machine. I’ve never used vinegar in the wash water with the detergent.
For those of you who cannot keep the door open because of the location of your washer, I put one of those Damp Rid containers in my washer and close the door. You just have to remember to remove it before washing.
Smart!
Home made laundry soap. Makes 4-5 gallons
4 Cups – hot tap water
1 Fels-Naptha soap bar
1 Cup Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda*
½ Cup Borax
– Grate bar of soap and add to saucepan with water. Stir continually over medium-low heat until soap dissolves and is melted.
-Fill a 5 gallon bucket half full of hot tap water. Add melted soap, washing soda and Borax. Stir well until all powder is dissolved. Fill bucket to top with more hot water. Stir, cover and let sit overnight to thicken.
-Stir well. fill into used, clean, laundry soap dispenser or bottles. Shake before each use. (will gel)
note: use 1/3 cup per load of laundry. Add it to the machine as it fills, but before putting in the clothes so it dilutes properly.
*Arm & Hammer “Super Washing Soda” – in some grocery stores or may be purchased online. Baking Soda will not work, nor will Arm & Hammer Detergent – It must be sodium carbonate!!
When you run it with the 2 cups of vinegar, do you put vinegar where you put detergent or do you put it in the front door where you would normally put the dirty clothes?
I put mine in the detergent but you could add it directly in the front door as well.
Hiya, I am a Brit and live now in Portugal. I find this all rather strange as in the UK we have always had front loaders, and top loaders are virtually unheard of. I have never heard of anyone having ‘nasty smells’ in their machines, and the only person I know who has ever had a problem with mold, was my father in law a year or so after my mother in law passed away. His rubber seal around the door hole, had dark mold spots on it .. and also a lot of gunk in it too ! He didn’t know you had to wipe in there .. and he also didn’t know NOT to close the door when not in use. I cleaned it .. but the dark spotting of the mold never did come off.
I wonder .. do your machines work differently or are they made differently from ours in Europe ? My latest model is a Direct Drive model from LG that also uses steam (if I wish) to wash … and uses little water as we are all cutting down on water usage and washing on high temperatures which wastes money and damages the enviroment. It washes things VERY clean and I have not had a problem with it. Save when the inlet filter got gunked up with some fine, sand like deposit which came from our well when we had a really heavy rainfall. Cleaned that out .. and no more problems.
First off, I would LOVE to live in Portugal! Hoping to make it over there to at least visit! 🙂
Front loaders are much more prone to mold and smells since they do not drain as well as top loaders. Now that I am used to the front loader, I would not go back but there are definitely a few things that you need to do differently.
Thank you so much. My detergent dispenser has drove me crazy everytime I use it, it was so bad. Now it looks great!
Glad it helped!
I know the original post is very old, but have you ever looked between the gasket and the drum? Just pull it back really hard and far and you’ll be able to see all the disgusting stuff back there too.Very good idea to check your drain pump now and again! We own an appliance repair business and you wouldn’t believe the stuff that comes out of drain pumps…lots of stuck socks and bra wires!
I’ll have to check that out. Thanks for the tip!
I was so thrilled when I bought my machine…after 1.5 years I am dumping this machine for an old fashion washing machine. I cannot believe that a washing machine stinks so badly, it’s up there with stoves with glass tops that you cannot can on. All flash which creates more work not less…sorry I have better things to do then clean out a washing machine.
I ALWAYS leave the front door open till the entire tube and door has dried out to prevent mold & mildew buildup! This also helps to eliminate the smell from a closed front door.
THANK YOU my dear women! I had all but given up on my gasket ever being like new! I have tried eveything including bleach but never a soaked rag and letting it set! I am beyond excited about this! Awesome sauce and bless you for this post! 🙂
Hope it worked for you! Give it time with the bleach and keep scrubbing with a toothbrush in between. 🙂
Great tips! My Whirlpool Duet front loader also has a “Fan Fresh” option which I use EVERY time I wash. Once the load is done washing it will periodically tumble with air blowing through the system which will keep the mustiness from happening and also makes it so you can leave it for a bit if you must. I still like to take my clothes out quickly but love the option. The times I have left clothes in for longer periods of time using this option the gasket and door end up completely dry when I do go to get everything out. Si super nice. I am also in the habit of wiping down the gasket & door & leaving the door ajar when I’m done with laundry. I also take out our sliding detergent dispenser, empty the water out of it & let it air out in between uses & also run a cleaning cycle when prompted. I haven’t had a musty smell yet! I adore my front loaders! 😀
I love my front loader now too. Love your fan fresh option!!
My front loaders always leaves water on the floor every time I wash a load of clothes.the repair man told me that my family’s hair gets into the rubber gasket around the door is why it leaks.isn’t that a stupid thing to happen. The dryer does the same thing when I steam refresh 5 or less items.it usually has a small puddle of water underneath the dryer from steaming.Also the repair man said HAIR getting between the rubber gasket on the dryer door is why this leaks too.I want my old may tag washer and dryer back.Has anyone had the same problem with their front loader. Alina from Michigan
Wow! I have never heard of that – definitely sounds like a big ol’ excuse from the repairman. Did you google your make/model to see if this is a common problem? It sounds to me like it is more of a design flaw than anything to do with your hair. Does it make a difference when you clean the hair out? I wish I had some solutions for you but this is a new one for me!
I do at least one load of white cotton hand towels every week that I both wash with bleach and then have a second full cycle of cold water and bleach for sanitizing.
I empty loads when done, (or at least within an hour).
I leave the door OPEN between loads and wipe the seals
I have had my front loader for 6 years now, and no mold, no mildew, no funky smells.
Also learn where the internal filter is, and how to access and remove to clean it. Can save you $$$$ over the life of the machine to do this yourself every few months than wait to have to repair the water pump. Or call for servicing to clean your filter. For some strange reason, machines sold in Western Europe and Far East Asia the owner can access the filter. Ones for North American, you can’t. (I don’t know about other areas)
Hi, Im English, Im just reading all these useful tips. Just wondering what a front loader and top loader is as we just have one sort .. a washing machine! Thanks!
For a top loader the clothes go in the top and for the front loader the door is on the front of the machine. The front loaders use a lot less water but because of their design they do not tend to drain as well. They just need to be maintained a little differently.
What??? Clean the front loader door gaskets after EVERY wash? No way. Buy a top loader since they are easy to maintain.
By clean the gaskets, I just mean wipe them down with a cloth – it literally just takes about 5 seconds. 🙂
Thank you for this article. But I have to tell you that you should never use bleach with hot water because of the gas emanations wich are very bad for your health.
Yes, bleach and hot water does produce a gas that can be bad for your health; however, bleach is designed to be used in the washing machine with hot water as it is contained. You can always try it with cold though!
I’ve heard that using non-HE detergents will cause the ball bearings to need replacing. Has anyone had any issues with this after using home made/vinegar mixtures for 1+ years? I would think it would take time to damage them.
I have been using vinegar for 5 years and haven’t had any problems. I don’t use it for every load though – just towel loads and for extra smelly loads {and about every second month for cleaning}
All of the cleaning tips say to use a hot wash however my machine only has Cold water.
How can I give my machine a good clean only using cod water
You have to use what you’ve got so just give it a go with cold water!
How do you add the vinegar to the front load washer? Do you just pour it into the drum or do you pour it into the soap dispenser?
I usually put it into the soap dispenser, but if you use fabric softener you can run it through the fabric softener dispenser to clear that out too.
Tip…use a small battery operated brush to clean the jet holes that spray water into the soap and softener cups. You’d be surprised how much icky stuff comes off!
Great tip! Thanks!
Thanks for the tip on checking the front gasket on a front-loading washer! I had a sock turn up missing a month or two ago. Read the article, ran to look under the gasket and there it was!! Kind of yucky looking but I soaked in bleach water and then washed it. Came out pretty good for being lost all that time in a damp washer gasket!
They mystery of the disappearing socks! lol! So glad the post was helpful for you. 🙂
I don’t use fabric softner. Instead, I fill the softner compartment with white vinegar. No, my laundry does NOT smell like vinegar. Yes, my towels are fluffy and soft. I have never, in the year I have had my front loader had an issue with smells or mildew. A light is supposed to go on when the washer needs to be cleaned and it has never gone on. Vinegar has kept my washer in tip top shape.
I use vinegar for smelly loads and for my towels as well. Works great!
I have had my Wirlpool front loader for eight years and never has a odor, mold, funky smell problem. I clean it usually when I’m doing swim towels with cup ammonia and a teaspoon of Dawn. I wipe the gasket with Lysol wipes. I do not use bleach. The closest I get is Clorox has an alternative bleach that is thick and has never ruined a colored garment because it’s activated by warm water. I have to say though I have a whole house water softener, bet investment we ever made. I love it. It take 1/2 the detergent to was my dishes in my dishwasher, 1/2 the soap for massave bubbles in my huge bath tub, etc. I only use a cap full of this bleach alt on white loads in warm water. I put the delicate tide pods right in the drum and dilute my fabric softener way down and only use it on towels and sheets. I wash the detergent tray in my dishwasher, top rack on air dry and wipe out the slot it’s in with Lysol wipes. I had one issue recently though, my first. I have a bag for my delicates and one nylons escaped and got all the way through the front clean out into the pump. Don’t ask how, my husband was baffled because there is a screen there, but he was able to pull it back. It was a relief. When opening the clean out I just put a two gal bucket on a stool under it before I unscrew it and I have never had the bucket fill up. I have love my front loader from the day we brought the set home. I think it’s how you take care of thing and they will be around. Things don’t clean themselves. Even my dryer needs the lint lizzered with the Vaccum taken to it every couple of months. Sometime I see the balls of lint in the clear bag less Vaccum other times not so much, but why chance it and have to run the dryer for two cycles for something that usually takes one?
I’ve had my Dyson Vaccum for nine years last September and yes we have replaced the brush bar, and hose on it, but it still works like its brand new. And those were cheaper then a new cheep Vaccum. I take it apart and completely wash the washable drum, bag less catch and filter at least twice a year. I clean it with a wipe after use to keep it looking new and the motor never even hiccuped. You take care of things they will be around.
I use a vinegar as a softener (with essential oils) from some time, and I must say – my washing mashine is clean, without scale and others stuff. Just a half glass of vinegar for each load. It’s also good if you or someone in your family is allergic.
Yes, vinegar is great for both cleaning and as a fabric softener. I use it as well on our towels.
Thank you SO much for this article! It has done wonders for me! My front loader (my second) is 8 or 9 years old and I didn’t know what to do about my stinky laundry! I read this article last night and since I was off work today, I decided to try it. I’m so pleased! I still have to check the pump filter, but the rest is done and I’ve got my 3rd load washing!
I’m so glad that it was helpful for you. Thanks so much for letting me know. Happy laundry! 😉
My Samsung asks me if I want to clean the drum every 50 loads. I just put in 2 cups of vinegar in and tell it yes. I also leave the soap tray and door open when not in use and I have never had mold or bad smell anywhere in the machine.
That’s nice your washing machine reminds you!
On the 2nd complete cycle when you add 2 C of Vinegar…are you putting that straight into the basin? Or do you put that in the detergent drawer…
I put it in the detergent drawer so it goes down and cleans it out as well.
A friend of ours who works in remediation, told us that bleach has little to no effect at killing and keeping mold and mildew away. That was a myth created in the 50’s to sell Clorox. He said that the best way to kill mold and mildew is to use peroxide based cleaning solutions, not bleach.
What do you think?
I’m not an expert on the area by any means but as far as I know, bleach will work to kill mold on non-porous surfaces only. On surfaces that are porous {such as wood}, the bleach cannot penetrate the wood to get to the root of the mold and can, in fact, lead to further development on mold since it also contains water {which mold loves!}. Since the mold in the washing machine was contained to a small area and rubber is non-porous, it worked fine for me and has not come back.
When I finish laundry for the day I stuff a wash cloth into the bottom area of the gasket to soak up any sitting water, and then leave the door propped open overnight to allow the entire washer and gasket to ‘air dry’. I also pull out the soap dispenser drawer and let it drain and dry in the sink. I’ve had my front-loader for over five years and have never had a mold/mildew problem, but still run an empty load a couple times per year with a 50/50 water and vinegar solution- just to freshen it up.
Thanks for all the other great ideas!
Thanks for sharing your tips!
When I got my front loader I almost had them come back and get it because it stunk so bad but I started using Vinegar in my towels and bedding and have never had a problem with the smell again. I never leave the door open or drain the tube but I do wash clothes every 3 to 4 days. I found out that vinegar is a natural cleaner. It kills up to 99.9 percent of germs and keeps mold from growing. Best and cheapest cleaner you can buy and by the way after the clothes are dry you can’t smell the vinegar at all. Not even in your washer when your through doing laundry. I use distilled vinegar. Two gals cost under $4.00 and you only need a cup in each washer load of laundry. Good Luck and hope this helps
Lucky for me/my family, we got rid of our front load washer and dryer set and replaced them with Speed Queen top load models. You can’t believe the difference. The clothes are cleaner in half the time. No longer do you find me reading Pinterest for new ways to get my clothes clean; whether it’s adding bleach, borax, peroxide, vinegar, oxy clean, spray and was, etc. You get the picture? Now I just put the clothes in the washer, add a nominal amount of detergent, turn it on , and presto chango like magic, my clothes come out clean in a matter of minutes. You heard right, I said minutes. Before, with our beautiful front load model, it took 1.5 hours to wash. Plus the clothes didn’t get clean. My workout clothes still smelled dirty. I’d re-wash them ( another 1.5 hours) adding vinegar or some other additive in the hopes of getting them clean. Then after they were finally clean, they’d get baked in the dryer. It didn’t matter if you dried on no heat or high heat. With our dryer, the clothes were baked. You’d take them out and burn your hands. We had the repairman at our house so often, we were on a first name basis with him. When you bake your clothes like that, you get horrible wrinkles. The worst was our under armor like workout clothes. They’d be so wrinkled, nothing, and I mean nothing would get the wrinkles out. Anyway, to make a long story short, we donated our beautiful matched set front load washer and dryer to some poor unsuspecting soul, and purchased our Speed Queen set. We could not be happier. No longer do I have to worry about cleaning around the seal on my washer. Anyway, sorry for rambling here. Do you get the idea that I like my new washer and dryer? Clean clothes in less than half the time.
Haven’t heard of that washer but it definitely sounds like you love it! 🙂
Thanks for posting this with detailed information..it worked for me 😊! Now that it’s super clean, I will definitely be following your tips on how to keep it this way. Thanks again!
Glad it worked! It’s actually really easy to maintain – just a matter of getting in the habit!
When you run the 2nd cycle using the 2 cups of vinegar, do you add that to the detergent dispenser or the drum area itself?
You could really put it in either place but I generally just put it in the detergent dispenser since I find that the easiest. 😉
I bookmarked your page two years ago, after researching how to remove mold stains from the rubber gasket. Not understanding front loaders, our older son closed the door one day to keep the laundry room aesthetically pleasing. By the time I needed to do laundry again, sure enough, mold had stained the rubber gasket. After all this time, I finally decided to spring-clean (in August) the laundry room. Your method worked!! Thank you so much! I’m still pleased with my five-year old model (or is it six?). I just wanted to give you credit for your blog on cleaning mold-stained rubber gaskets. Your method was INCREDIBLY easy.
So glad that it worked for you! We haven’t had any problems with ours since then. 🙂
My LG started leaking so I had the repair man come. He found that the gasket was not draining (plugged). I had been wiping the gasket and keeping the door open (no smells) and occasionally running the clean cycle, but not noticing that the little drain holes were plugged. So I cleaned the gasket (a lot of black and grey stuff, but not smelly), but then bent the gasket back where it meets the tub and found there is a lot more black stuff there (as noted in one of the comments above). I ran the Tub Clean cycle with the Tide brand cleaner but the gunkis still there under the gasket. I tried to wipe it but I can only get the edge of a cloth in part way, not enough to reach the gunk. How can I clean under the gasket?
I have the Samsung 5.6cu washer. It did not original add much water. My hub tinkered with the eco-friendly thing. Now it fills as it should. I wish they sold vinegar in a drum. I put some in every load. I never use fabric softener, because the animal fats will mold over time. I don’t have the luxury of leaving the door open because my machine runs nonstop (autistic children, lots of accidents). I do mix bleach and vinegar (opening the laundry room up for ventilation), then wait anxiously to start the next load. I have a top loader also. I like them equally, but the maintenance on the FL is pretty regular. I’m going put bleach on sponges and stuff em in the gasket…test how that works. I don’t have mold, but man that filter/trap is easily a stinky lil sucker. I’m not in love with the new top loader with those crazy low agitators. I found a 6 year old TL, with a strong and tall agitator. The lady said she wanted a FL. Okay, I’m not going to sway you when you only want $50 for a washer and dryer! I know that isn’t the nicest thing to do, but I gotta survive 7 kids! lol
Beautiful webpage and thanks !
instead of waiting for the gasket to get stinky I just use a piece from the current load to clean it. then I toss the piece into the washer with the rest of the load. this prevents it from getting yucky in the first place. I always do the whites first so that no cleaning is needed from the last week’s load. (see why next.) after all loads are done, just use some paper towels to blot up the mess from the last load and clean the inside of the glass. especially the bottom. and yes, leave the door ajar. 8^)
I do the same thing now as well. I have two cloths that just go back and forth from the washer and dryer for cleaning.
I prefer doing weekly cleaning of the rubber gasket, having done water damage cleaning mold is brutal to get rid of once it gets into rubber and little areas out of sight. I use Clorox wipes and clean the inside of the rubber gasket after taking any hair or large matter out, since I do home care for my mother I am always washing bed pads and do so using Borax ( rather than bleach) and this also helps keep much of the problem smells away but the real key is at night when you are done using the washer put a towel on the door to keep it from closing tight and let it dry and get air and try to never leave a washer closed for long periods of time as they all hold water in the lower part of the unit.
Hi just wondering if the second cycle witj 2 cups of vinegar you put the vinegar in the drum or the washing liqjid compartment?
Either will work! 🙂
I just got a new Bosch front loading washer (and dryer – you have to get a stacking kit if you want to stack them). The instructions say NOT to use chlorine bleach in the washer and to leave the washer door open to air out after each use. I also do a quick swipe of the bottom of the gasket with something that’s going into the dryer to get rid of the excess water there. Use just 1-2 tablespoons of detergent, per instructions.
Not overdoing the detergent and keeping the door open are definitely key to prevent mold or that “stinky washing machine smell” from forming. For the bleach, I just used it the one time to get rid of the mold after trying everything else. If used undiluted regularly, the bleach can start to dry out and crack the rubber, but it should be fine for very occasional use.
Chlorine free bleach is more environmentally friendly, just as effective and doesnt have that obnoxious smell.
Im wondering if chlorine free bleach warps rubber and dries it ourt causing it to crack…I know regular bleach does….so be aware of this and dont over do it.
I did try the chlorine free bleach first (as I totally agree that it’s more environmentally friendly and less harsh) but it didn’t actually work. That being said, I would not use bleach regularly like this – I only used it one time and have not had to do it again by following all of the tips. 🙂
After reading all the comments I will share something NOT 1 ever dealt with… FIRST: check to see the machine is level. That encourages proper drainage. SECOND: READ the instructions.. Instead of being rigid in old ways! follow them!! THIRD: wash underwear LAST!! As they are ripe w/ E Choli bacteria that grows w/ dark… Moist environment!! Use separate towels to dry the boot… As that Black mold is bad stuff to inhale or be exposed to!! ALWAYS leave the door ajar… I use an old Tide cap to keepy Ft Loader proper open… & I TURN THE DIAL TO OFF & press the dial “in” to turn off…… so it can’t refill the tub. No need to turn off the wall faucets, unless you are going out of town for any extended period of time. Spend the $$ to get the STAINLESS STEEL BRAIDED hoses for your cold & hot water connections. They are less likely to leak!! Don’t overload and don’t over soap clothing!! I use both powder & liquid… Per Consumer Report, I use Tide & Cheer… But use Suavitel (cheaper) fabric softener w/o an issue!! I occasionally use b’soda or Borax & OxiClean to brighten. Mixing too many will vs ise the yellowing of whites (non-Chlorine Bleach is Peroxide based) . Bleach on rubber deteriorates it.. More $$ for Repairpersons, incl the chlorine flush tabs put in the tank of toilets!! My buddy is a Master Plumber… He should know about toilets!!
Best of luck to all…. Love my Kenmore front loader. Per my Home Ec Instructor, the ft loaders agitate gently by circling and dropping the clothes on themselves. Mine machine also has a reverse agitation feature… It reverses periodically during the cycle!! I watched…( also a product of my research via Consumer Report! ) they use less overall water, but am concerned newer ones REALLY shorted the water it uses. I can control mine w/ a dial… Dependent on size of the load…. mbo
Do you have any ideas on cleaning a top loading washing machine?
It’s not actually too much different than the front loader. If anything, they’re much easier to keep clean! Here’s a great tutorial on it from a blogging friend of mine…
http://askannamoseley.com/2012/04/spring-cleaning-cleaning-your-washing-machine/
For the first cycle where you are throwing in the bleached towels, are you adding detergent? Or just washing them in a hot water cycle and then removing the towels and doing the vinegar cycle?
No, I don’t add detergent. Part of what you want to clean out is any built up detergent residue. I keep the towels in for the vinegar cycle too – you always want to have a couple in there when running the washing machine. 🙂
I have noticed some lint/moldy sludge under the gasket where it meets the metal rim of the tub. Clothes have gotten stuck in this part of the gasket and come out with sludge stains on them. This part of the gasket is not the large flap and is quite difficult to clean under. Any tips?
I’m not exactly sure what part you’re talking about, but a stiff toothbrush works great on those smaller, hard to reach areas. I’d just scrub it with the toothbrush and water or you could even make a little paste with baking soda and water if you needed a light abrasive. I’ve gotten in the habit of always wiping down the rim and gasket after a load of laundry is done. A just keep a couple of small rags around the laundry area so there’s always one there to grab!
I still have a front loader from 1998, it is now 2021. I have never had a mold/odor problem, since after every load I wipe out the dispensers and the gasket around the door, giving extra care to the insides of the gasket. I also leave the dispenser open and the door slightly ajar. We had a B&B for 15 years, so this machine got a lot of use.
Yes! As long as you take care of them properly (which isn’t much work!) they can last a long time.
I have a Samsung front load washer and was told to never use commercial fabric softener (vinegar is OK). I clean behind the rubber seal after the last load I do for that day. I always leave the door open unless there is company coming – then I close the door almost but not completely. I have not had any trouble with mildew. I live in a damp climate. Thanks for the other tips – I will check my drain filter and I will use less detergent from now on.
I keep my machine with a once a month wipe down, inside and out, cleaning around the gasket with a stained hand towel, dipped in vinegar, if not too gunked up, bleach if it is gunked up. I also use that same time to clean the dishwasher parts (some how the stuff occasionally gets clogged in the spinning sprayers, and clean all the filters, and the same with the fridge. I try and do it the day before garbage day, so I can empty any science experiments that have gone unchecked, and about every six months on the pump filter, earlier, if I notice any change in performance! I leave the door open on the front loader washer, and empty the filter on the dryer after EVERY load! If stains persist on white clothes, a trot out to the clothes line and an afternoon of sun take care of any stubborn mystery stains! I use bleach when necessary (that means if we have had the plague, any guess how long this towel has sat in a corner balled up, and vomit, poop, or blood are involved). Which means rarely, but it does happen. I keep a sprayer of Dawn and Shout (using the Shout till its all gone, then just watered down Dawn afterwards!). The two little fur children are famous for piddling in their kennels AFTER they have gone outside for a long walk and played (don’t ask why, I have just given up on them doing what they are supposed to where I want them to!). So keeping that washer clean for my stuff is IMPORTANT too! The only stuff that ever stinks, is the load I am putting in! Not a huge fan of softeners, but have occasionally gone with scent enhancers for bedding, just because I love getting in a bed that smells nice! My favorite are linens line dried in spring! There is no scent that can ever beat that smell! Love this article, very informative and has good points to consider, especially the filter pump!
This is the best solution that all repair companies use. throw a dishwasher tablet in the machine and run cleaning cycle on hottest water setting. Also never use more than 2 tbls of detergent per wash because soap scum builds up. Front loaders require very little soap. Always wipe rubber gasket out when finished laundry and keep the door open when not in use!
I haven’t heard of using a dishwasher tablet before – interesting! And, yes, I totally agree with limiting the detergent per wash, wiping down the gasket each use, and keeping the door ajar.